The Environmental Science program is designed to prepare students for employment in areas of the environment or for transfer to a four-year institution of higher learning. Students choose a focus area geared toward conservation/preservation of natural resources, energy efficiency, or environmental literacy. In this multidisciplinary program, you will learn to relate underlying scientific theory to environmental considerations affecting our everyday lives. You will gain an understanding of environmental problems and obtain the knowledge and skills to begin developing solutions.
Program Outcomes
Successful graduates will be able to:
- examine the impact of man on the environment from scientific, sociological, political and economic viewpoints;
- demonstrate awareness of local environmental problems and efforts;
- apply concepts and implement the skills learned in the sciences, mathematics and humanities to real-world environmental issues;
- demonstrate an ability to critically examine scientific evidence demonstrating how human activities affect many ecosystems, and recommend alternatives to present practices;
- demonstrate academic skills required of all CCV graduates, including competency in writing, information literacy, oral communication, quantitative reasoning; and
- explore pathways for educational and career development in the student’s field of study.
How Our Degree Works
The CCV Environmental Science degree integrates 27 credits of CCV’s general education curriculum and core learning requirements within the field of environmental science. The program is designed to help you develop skills in applying biological, chemical, and physical principles to the study of the environment and the solution of environmental problems. You will have an opportunity to select one focus area in which to deepen your learning: natural resources, sustainable building technology or environmental literacy. Within each focus area, you will be provided opportunities to experience hands-on lab activities, field-based real world scenarios and service learning connections.
Why Our Degree Works
CCV’s associate degree in Environmental Science can be completed through CCV’s 12 academic centers and online. By providing pathways into diverse environmentally-focused areas, the degree provides entry-level career opportunities within rapidly expanding sectors of Vermont’s and the nation’s economy. Through service learning-based and project management courses, you will have an opportunity to connect with businesses and industries across Vermont. The curriculum was developed in collaboration with experts in the field, faculty, and representatives of four-year institutions.
Career Opportunities
Upon completion of CCV’s Environmental Science program, you will be prepared for a variety of employment opportunities or continued study at the bachelor’s degree level. You may gain employment in environmentally-focused industries including energy efficiency administration, land conservation, water resource management, or environmental education. Employment may be secured in state and local government, public and private sectors, and nonprofit agencies.
Transfer Options
CCV’s Environmental Science program is excellent preparation for students who want to pursue a four-year degree.
