Why Study Environmental Studies?
Natural resources and the environment are more at risk of peril today than any other time in human history. By studying Environmental Studies, individuals learn the skills needed to really make a difference! Participants in this program receive hands-on, field based instruction that gives them a strong foundation in species ID/biodiversity, ecology, soil and water quality, as well as a general biology and chemistry.
Program Options
This program prepares students for transfer into a Bachelor of Science program in Environmental Studies or a related field. Students should work closely with their academic advisor to determine choice of electives to help ensure articulation with specific transfer colleges. Upon completion of a bachelor’s degree, career opportunities include Natural Resource Specialist, Field Biologist, Environmental Health Technician, Fisheries Technician, and Forest Ranger. The program combines classroom, laboratory, and field study instruction giving students a well- rounded preparation. It is designed to meet the ever-increasing need for well-qualified professionals in this field.
Careers & Outcomes
Graduates from this program typically get jobs with non-profits, local governments, or the private sector. Some choose to go on to earn a four year or higher degree.
Career Opportunities
Job titles in this field are very diverse and can range from environmental educator, to botanist, wildlife technician, laboratory technician, or field researcher.
Upon completion of a bachelor’s degree, career opportunities include:
- Natural Resource Specialist
- Field Biologist
- Environmental Health Technician
- Fisheries Technician
- Forest Ranger
Further Educational Opportunities
Transfer opportunities include, but are not limited to: SUNY Plattsburgh, Marist College, SUNY Stony Brook, Paul Smith’s College, SUNY Environmental Science and Forestry, (ESF) B.S. in Environmental Studies Program only.
Additional Information
We have one of the largest natural history museums of any community college. With over 2000 bird skins specimens, 1400 egg sets with over 5000 eggs, 300 vascular plant herbarium species, and 500 bryophyte species from around the world, students have the unique opportunity to learn about these species in a first hand manner.
We are also the only SUNY Community College to have a Hudson River Environmental Field Station where students get to learn applied water quality and other field biology techniques in and around one of the most iconic rivers of the modern environmental movement. Students also learn site management skills through our partnership with Olana, as well as a unique sense of place and working knowledge of the contribution of the Hudson River School of Art to the modern environmental movement.