Environmental Science
No single science can solve the challenges of the environment. In this interdisciplinary major, you’ll study the concepts and methods of a wide range of biological and physical sciences—and prepare to tackle some of the world’s most pressing and complicated problems.
Get ready to make a change
This powerful program cuts across academic disciplines to give you a deep and wide-ranging view of the environment and its challenges. In small classes, you’ll learn side-by-side with outstanding faculty. You’ll study biology, chemistry, ecology, physics, botany, mathematics and computer science. You’ll find a new home in Parmer Hall, the campus’s newest building, with 16 laboratories and state-of-the-art scientific equipment. You’ll develop your computational and statistical skills, and learn to think, write, speak, analyze and solve problems at a whole new level. This major will give you the knowledge and skills you’ll need to make important contributions in a field that is growing rapidly in size and significance.
You can select one of two pathways at Dominican. The environmental science major is for students whose main interest is in the scientific aspects of environmental issues. The natural science major with an environmental studies concentration is designed for students interested in a broader approach to environmental issues, including political science, business, and the humanities, in addition to science.
Amazing opportunities—on campus and beyond
Practical experience is built into the curriculum. Our internships draw on Chicago’s world-class research, scientific and corporate resources. You can combine academic study with compassionate service to people in need, or complete your own, hands-on research project in close collaboration with faculty (and often with university funding). You also can immerse yourself in a different society and culture through our outstanding study abroad program. You’ll have your choice of programs on four continents.
Environmental science graduates find career opportunities in natural resources, energy, regulatory compliance and many other areas. They work both in the public and private sectors.
Gerry Holmes
Dominican Graduate
“I was amazed by all the opportunities at Dominican for environmental science students. Whatever your specific interest is, the faculty will help you find a path of study that will help you achieve your goals. All you need to do is ask.”
Prepare for effective service in a vital profession
Undergraduate research is a Dominican trademark. You won’t have to wait until graduate school to work side by side with a brilliant faculty scholar. You can even apply for special funding from the university to support your original work. Our annual research expo in April gives you a chance to practice your presentation skills and show your stuff.
As concerns around climate change continue to grow, college graduates with a strong foundation in environmental science are in ever greater demand. Our graduates find career opportunities in natural resources, energy, regulatory compliance and many other areas, in both the public and private sectors. The curriculum is designed to prepare you for lifelong intellectual and professional competence. In the workplace, our graduates know what they’re doing. They’re informed, thoughtful, open to new ideas, proficient with lab procedures and technologies, and able to adapt and thrive through long and meaningful careers. They have earned their way into leadership positions in the professions of their choice.
Austin Michals
Dominican Student
“The classes at Dominican are small, which makes learning more personal and even easier. The faculty work closely with you to help you understand complex material in science, technology and math courses. That’s been important to me as I move toward my goal of working in the environmental sciences.”
