These requirements are from an excerpt from the University Academic Catalog, which outlines the requirements for a student to earn the distinction of being a Castleton University graduate. The complete catalog is available online.
For further information about this major, contact Dr. Andrew Vermilyea, the Environmental Science Coordinator: Andrew.vermilyea@castleton.edu
This program integrates the scientific disciplines of biology, chemistry, and geology to provide students with a strong framework from which to analyze environmental problems and develop effective, sustainable solutions. Students earning a BS in Environmental Science will pursue both laboratory and field careers in government, industry, and the non-profit sector. This program prepares students for careers and graduate degree programs in related environmental fields such as toxicology, hydrology, systems ecology, plant ecology, and water chemistry.
Upon successful completion of this program students will achieve competency in the following learning goals:
Knowledge and understanding of Environmental Science Concepts
1. Explain the fundamental theoretical constructs, practices, and interrelationship among the major subdivisions of Environmental Science:
2. Demonstrate fluency in the use of tools, technologies and methods in the laboratory and natural environment, for example:
Intellectual Skills
3. Analytical and scientific inquiry: Formulate, create, and execute a plan to answer scientific questions employing the scientific method.
4. Use of information resources: Locate, comprehend, assess and apply the scholarly work of scientists according to accepted practices.
5. Communication: Communicate scientific information, both orally and in writing to both a technical and general public audience.
6. Quantitative skills: Use appropriate mathematical and statistical methods to evaluate and interpret environmental data.
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
BIO 1121 |
Biology IA comprehensive introduction to biology focused on the molecular, cellular, and organismal level. The course provides an introduction to all areas of biology. Lecture and lab Fee Lab fee $50 Fall |
4 |
BIO 1122 |
Biology IIA continuation of BIO 1121 Biology I, with particular emphasis on organisms, ecosystems, and evolution. Lecture and lab. Fee Lab fee $50 Spring |
4 |
CHE 1051 |
Chemistry IAn in-depth study of the fundamental principles of chemistry. Topics include modern atomic theory and structure of atoms, solution chemistry, nature of chemical bond, stoichiometry, gas laws, thermochemistry and molecular geometry. This course is designed for biology, chemistry, geology, and environmental science majors, as well as motivated students in the health related fields. To succeed in this course, an understanding of applied algebra is mandatory. Restrictions Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Geology majors only. This course fulfills a Natural Science general education requirement. Prerequisite: MAT 1221 or equivalent placement. Fee Fee $50 Fall |
4 |
CHE 1052 |
Chemistry IIThis course is a continuation of CHE 1051 . Topics of study include intermolecular forces, properties of solutions, the chemistry of solids, thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, equilibrium, metal chemistry, and electrochemistry. This course is designed for biology, chemistry, geology, and environmental science majors or other students that will pursue higher-level courses in chemistry. Restrictions Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science and Geology majors only. Prerequisite: CHE 1051 or CHE 1041 Fee Fee $50 Spring |
4 |
CHE 1110 |
Introduction to Environmental ChemistryThis course has its foundation in the basic chemical principles that are important to understand how our globe functions as an environmental system and how humans can alter the balance of natural forces. We will explore the scientific understanding of major issues such as climate warming, acid rain, ozone depletion, among others and the various feedback mechanisms that lead to either more positive or negative consequences. This course fulfills a Natural Science general education requirement. Spring |
3 |
GEY 1030 |
Dynamic EarthThis is an introductory geology course which examines the geological features of the earth and the processes that operate in the interior and on the surface of the earth which are responsible for their formation. Topics studied include volcanos, earthquakes, mountain building, plate tectonics, glaciers, minerals, rocks, streams and groundwater. Also covered are the techniques and methods geologists use to learn more about the earth. Lecture and lab This course fulfills the Natural Science general education requirement. Fee Lab fee $50 Fall |
4 |
MAT 1531 |
Calculus ITopics include limits, differentiation, applications of derivatives, and an introduction to integration. This course may utilize graphing calculators on a regular basis. This course fulfills a Mathematics general education requirement. Prerequisite: MAT 1360 or equivalent. Every semester |
4 |
SCI 1230 |
Pathways to SciencePathways to Science is a broad spectrum science course that explores a wide variety of science topics in many different areas of science. Throughout this course students will learn skills needed to succeed in science. The course is geared toward first year and sophomore level students by aiming to provide a solid base of science terminology and principles. Pathways to Science is an introduction in how to succeed in science, how to initiate a research project, and how to get through the first two years of a science program. Students will identify future goals, career objectives, and put together a plan for graduation. Restrictions Biology, Chemistry, Ecological Studies, Environmental Science, and Wildlife and Forest Conservation majors. Spring |
1 |
BIO 2010 |
Cell and Molecular Biology-OR- BIO 2125 - Fundamentals of Microbiology 4 cr This course provides science majors with the fundamentals of cell and molecular biology. Students study the basics of molecular biology, the flow of genetic information through the cell, its structure, function, metabolism, and regulation. The lab portion of the course will focus on mastery of standard cell and molecular biology techniques while exploring course concepts. This course is intended for science majors and minors only and will not satisfy the Scientific and Mathematical Understanding frame of reference. Lecture and Lab Prerequisite: BIO 1121, BIO 1122 and CHE 1041 or CHE 1051 Fee Lab fee $50 Spring |
4 |
MAT 2036 |
BiostatisticsThis course introduces statistical concepts and analytical methods as applied to data encountered in ecological, environmental, and biomedical sciences. It emphasizes the basic concepts of experimental design, quantitative analysis of data, and statistical inferences. Topics include probability theory and distributions; population parameters and their sample estimates; descriptive statistics for central tendency and dispersion; hypothesis testing and confidence intervals for means, variances, and proportions; the chi-square statistic; categorical data analysis; linear correlation and regression model; analysis of variance; and nonparametric methods. The course provides students a foundation to evaluate information critically to support research objectives and product claims and a better understanding of statistical design of experimental trials for biological products/devices. Restrictions Students will be required to have a scientific calculator. This course fulfills the Digital and Computing Literacy general education requirement. Prerequisite: Minimum math placement of MAT 2021 . Every semester |
4 |
PHY 2110 |
Physics IAn introduction to the concepts and theories of physics for science majors. Topics include forces, motion, and energy. A weekly laboratory section explores concepts and the role of experimentation in science. This course will use elementary calculus in order to solve physics problems. University level calculus is required. May not be taken for credit if credit has been received for PHY 1051. Lecture and lab. This course fulfills a Natural Science general education requirement. Prerequisite: MAT 2532 Fee Lab fee $50 Fall |
4 |
PHY 2210 |
Physics IIA continuation of PHY 2110. Topics include electricity, magnetism, light and modern physics. May not be taken for credit if credit has been received for PHY 1052. Lecture and lab. Prerequisite: PHY 2110 and MAT 2532 Fee Lab fee $50 Spring |
4 |
SCI 2100 |
Science ColloquiumVisiting scientists, department faculty, Castleton students, and scientists in the workforce will give presentations about current scientific research and careers in science. Students are given an opportunity to interact with the invited speakers and strengthen their personal scientific network. This science research seminar is open to any Natural Sciences major or minor (BIO, CHE, ESS, HLT, ENV, WFC) and is meant to introduce students to a wide range of current research areas and potential careers in science. This course is repeatable for credit. Pass/No pass only. Prerequisite: Students enrolled in a major or minor offered by the Natural Sciences Department or permission of the instructor. Fall |
1 |
SCI 2210 |
Introduction to Geographic Information SystemsThis course is designed to introduce students to the basic concepts of modern geographic information systems (GIS). The class will consist of lectures, discussions, readings, demonstrations, and hands-on training exercises using ESRI's GIS software. This will give students experience in defining spatial problems and solutions, organizing and locating geographic data, manipulating data for display, and map creation and use of a desktop GIS. Students will be expected to use what they have learned to develop a final GIS project. This course fulfills the Digital and Computing Literacy general education requirement. Fee Lab fee $40 Spring |
3 or 4 |
BIO 3060 |
Ecology-OR- BIO 3065 - Plant Ecology 4 cr A study of the interrelationships between plants, animals, microorganisms and their abiotic environment. Problems in experimental design and ecological analysis will be explored. Some Saturday field trips are planned. Field trips to primitive areas are required. Lecture and lab. Prerequisite: BIO 1121, BIO 1122, and CHE 1041 or CHE 1051 with grades of "C" or higher. Fee Lab fee $50. Fall |
4 |
BIO 3013 |
Biogeochemistry: Soils & Elemental Cycles-OR- CHE 3013 - Biogeochemistry 4 cr This unique but very relevant course will focus on the study of chemical, physical, geological and biological processes that make up the natural environment. Small-scale processes are addressed that are important in the cycling of elements in our global system. Students will learn and understand the specific interactions of chemicals with living organisms which directly impact the global ecosystem. Discussions will also focus on how climate change affects these processes. Prerequisite: BIO 1121 , BIO 2010 or BIO 2125, and CHE 1042 or CHE 1052, or consent of instructor. Fall, even years |
4 |
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
BIO 3030 |
Ecology of WaterIn this course we will investigate the ecology of the earth's most perfect liquid - water. The impact of large dams, ground water pumping, hydro-fracking, irrigation, and water diversions on the environment, biodiversity, and humanity will be investigated. Restrictions A minimum of junior standing. Prerequisite: BIO 1121 and BIO 1122 or permission of instructor. Spring, odd years |
3 |
BIO 4250 |
EcotoxicologyAn investigation of the effects of pollutants in ecosystems. Student will explore how contaminants (e.g., pesticides, industrial discharges, toxic wastes, etc.) play a critical role in biotic and abiotic relationships and, ultimately, biodiversity. Students will confront toxicological problems by reviewing case studies and current research, as well as by examining the social, political, and ecological aspects of each issue. Restrictions Prerequisite: BIO 3060 or BIO 3065, and CHE 1042 or CHE 1052 , or permission of instructor. Spring, even years |
3 |
CHE 2111 |
Organic Chemistry IAn introduction to the chemistry of organic compounds. Emphasis is on organic functional groups and their chemical properties, nomenclature and molecular structure. The laboratory introduces students to basic organic laboratory techniques of synthesis, purification and characterization. Lecture (3 hrs.) and lab (4 hrs). Students are strongly recommended to take Organic Problem Solving I (CHE 2113) together with this course. Prerequisite: CHE 1042 or CHE 1052 with a grade of C or better. Fee Lab fee $50. Fall |
4 |
CHE 3020 |
Analytical ChemistryA survey of analytical chemical techniques including traditional gravimetric and titrimetric methods as well as modern spectroscopic and chromatographic methods of chemical analysis. Lecture and lab This course fulfills a Digital and Computing Literacy general education requirement. Prerequisite: CHE 1041 or CHE 1051 or consent of instructor. Fee Lab fee $50 Spring |
4 |
CHE 4010 |
Environmental Kinetics and Chemical FateA study of steady and non-steady state kinetics in environmental chemistry, including photochemical transformations. Modeling of contaminant degradation with respect to advection, dispersion, microbial, and chemical degradation will also be examined. Prerequisite: CHE 2111 Fall, odd years |
3 |
GEY 3110 |
HydrogeologyThis is an applied hydrogeology course with lecture, laboratory and field experience. Course material will include the hydrologic cycle, ground water, wells, water quality/contamination and flow modeling. Lecture and lab. Prerequisite: GEY 1030, GEY 1050 or consent of the instructor. Fee Lab fee $50. |
4 |
For students considering graduate programs in environmental science, MAT 2532 - Calculus II should be taken along with CHE 2112 - Organic Chemistry II.
For students considering environmental engineering or hydrology careers/graduate programs, a minor in mathematics is recommended with MAT 2532 - Calculus II, MAT 3533 - Calculus III, MAT 3210 - Linear Algebra, and MAT 3310 - Differential Equations.
In addition to the above requirements, we strongly recommend that students initiate an internship or research project in environmental science.
We also encourage students to consider the minor in Environmental Studies to enhance their breadth of knowledge of environmental issues.
The BS in Environmental Science may not be combined with a Biology or Ecological Studies major. Up to 12 credits may be applied to a minor in Biology, Chemistry, or Geology.