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. Cynthia Moulton, the Ecological Studies Coordinator: Cynthia.Moulton@Castleton.edu
The B.A. in Ecological Studies offers students an opportunity to explore the science of ecology and the environment within the tradition of the liberal arts major. The multidisciplinary curriculum cultivates a broad understanding of the interconnectedness of living organisms and environmental systems, including the interactions between humans and the natural world.
Graduates will be prepared for careers in government and non-government environmental organizations as park naturalists, research/field technicians, wildlife specialists, environmental advocacy staff, nature writers, and outdoor educators. Additionally, some students may pursue graduate programs in science education, natural resource management, and environmental law/policy.
Further, students completing the degree requirements for the B.A. in Ecological Studies will have all necessary coursework required for professional certification through the Ecological Society of America.
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 1041 |
General Chemistry IOR CHE 1110 - Introduction to Environmental Chemistry 3cr OR CHE 1051 - Chemistry I 4cr Fundamental principles of chemistry. Topics include modern atomic theory and structure of atoms, chemical bonds, stoichiometry, gas laws, thermochemistry and molecular geometry. To succeed in this course, an understanding of applied algebra is necessary. This course fulfills a Natural Science general education requirement. Prerequisite: MAT 1221 or equivalent placement. Fee Fee $50. Fall |
4 |
GEY 1030 |
Dynamic Earth-OR- GEY 1050 - The Earth through Time 4 cr This 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 |
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 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 3060 |
EcologyA 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 3065 |
Plant EcologyThis course covers the major concepts in plant community, population, physiological and evolutionary ecology through lecture, discussion and active field and laboratory activities. One or more field trips are planned. Prerequisite: BIO 1121, BIO 1122, and CHE 1041, CHE 1051, or CHE 1110 Fee Lab fee $50. Fall, even years |
4 |
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
BIO 2035 |
Animal Diversity and EvolutionIn this course students will investigate the form, function, and ecology of animals from an evolutionary perspective. Fundamental life processes will be considered at the cellular, organismal, population, and ecosystem levels that connect with issues relating to biodiversity and conservation biology. Two Saturday field trips are required. Lecture and lab This course fulfills a Natural Science general education requirement. Fee Lab fee $50 Fall |
4 |
BIO 2125 |
Fundamentals of MicrobiologyA study of the cellular structure and function of microorganisms, principally bacteria. The physiology, genetics, and interactions of bacteria with higher forms of life and the environment will be covered. The required laboratory will provide students with an understanding and practical knowledge of aseptic techniques and other common microbiology methods. Prerequisite: Previous or concurrent enrollment in BIO 1121 , BIO 2011, or CHE 2030 Fee Lab fee $50 Fall |
4 |
BIO 2165 |
Flora of VermontAn inquiry-based field course devoted to the study of local natural history. We will explore the biology and taxonomy of plants, as well as investigate Vermont's ecological communities. Field trips to off-campus locations and hikes on rugged terrain are required. This course fulfills a Natural Science general education requirement. Fee Materials fee $50 Fall |
4 |
BIO 2530 |
Conservation Biology & BiogeographyThis course covers the fundamentals of conserving biological diversity from the DNA level up to population, ecosystem, and the global scale. An overview of biodiversity along with the factors that contribute to the loss of species will be discussed. Prerequisite: BIO 1121 and BIO 1122 Spring |
3 |
CHE 1042 |
General Chemistry IIContinuation of CHE 1041. Topics include solution properties, kinetics, equilibrium, reaction mechanisms, thermodynamics, oxidation-reduction reactions and acid-base chemistry. Prerequisite: CHE 1041 or CHE 1051 Fee $50 lab fee Spring |
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 |
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
BIO 3013 |
Biogeochemistry: Soils & Elemental CyclesThis 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 |
BIO 3015 |
Urban EcologyStudying urban ecology requires a multidisciplinary approach to understand how urban areas are social-ecological systems (SES). The course will introduce students to theories, concepts, and current trends in urban ecology. The study of urban ecology centers on humans as instrumental components of and not separate from ecological systems. Using the SES framework as a foundation, the course will explore the natural, social, and built components of urban centers and urbanizing environments and how these components intersect with social welfare, governance, and ecological systems. Students will explore topics in ecology, social governance, urban design, ecosystem services, urban resiliency, and other areas related to specific student interests. Restrictions BIO 1122 Prerequisite: BIO 1122 Periodically |
4 |
BIO 3160 |
Animal BehaviorThis course examines the behavior of animals as they interact with each other and the environment. Topics include anti-predator behavior, foraging behavior, territoriality, social interactions, communication, and migration. The goal of the course is to learn to think critically about animal behavior by understanding behavior on both the proximate (genetics, development and response to external stimuli) and ultimate (evolutionary) levels. In the laboratory, groups of students will design, carry out, and report on an independent research project. At least Sophomore standing required. Prerequisite: BIO 1121 and BIO 1122 Fee Fee $50 Periodically |
4 |
BIO 3350 |
Natural History of the Mojave DesertDeserts contain diverse, fascinating, and unique life forms. The open desert landscapes make the amazing geology easily visible. Natural History of the Mojave Desert explores biological and geological aspects of the Mojave Desert in California. Topics include the ecology of desert systems, plant and animal adaptations to desert climates and habitats, and the geological forces that shape and maintain those habitats. The course includes a field trip to primitive areas of the Mojave Desert where hiking on rugged terrain is required. The field trip occurs in the week following commencement and the laboratory fee covers all travel, food, and lodging costs. Permission of Instructor Fee Dependent on current travel costs, expected to be between $1000 and $1500. Spring, odd years |
4 |
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 |
BIO 4260 |
Field Techniques and Current Topics in Wildlife BiologyThis course is targeted for undergraduate students majoring in wildlife biology, biology, zoology, forestry, or other natural resource programs in the Northeastern U.S., especially those from programs lacking intense field-based courses. Graduate students are also welcome. The course is intended to provide students with practical, hands-on training in the tools and techniques of field biology and allow them to apply these skills in a variety of exercises. Students will summarize data from small group projects and present results to the large group and instructors. Practicing biologists from across the region will be engaged as guest instructors for certain workshops and will be invited to lead discussion sessions on current wildlife management issues and lead field trips to demonstrate wildlife and habitat management practices on the ground. Restrictions This course is offered by the Castleton Center for Schools, special payment arrangements may apply. Prerequisite: BIO 1141 , BIO 3060 , or permission of instructor. Fee $850 approximately Summer |
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 |
We strongly recommend that students complete an internship relating to their career goals.
The B.A. in Ecological Studies may not be combined with the BS.BIO, the BS.ENV, or a minor in Biology or Natural Sciences.