Environmental Sciences
The Environmental Sciences Bachelor of Science program at Northwestern University offers students a rigorous, interdisciplinary education centered on understanding Earth’s systems and the human impact on natural processes. Through a blend of geology, biology, chemistry, and atmospheric science, students examine environmental change, resource use, and ecological resilience on both local and global scales. The program places emphasis on evidence-based analysis, allowing students to investigate environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, soil degradation, and freshwater scarcity using scientific tools and critical reasoning. This foundation prepares them to address pressing environmental issues through data-driven research and sustainable problem-solving strategies.
In addition to classroom learning, the program encourages field-based inquiry, lab experimentation, and computational modeling to deepen understanding of natural phenomena and anthropogenic effects. Students engage in projects that range from analyzing glacial movements to monitoring urban pollution, often working alongside faculty in research groups or participating in off-campus field stations. The curriculum fosters scientific literacy, quantitative skills, and systems thinking, helping students connect natural science concepts with broader policy, health, and sustainability outcomes. With an emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and experiential learning, students graduate ready to engage with complex environmental questions through both academic and applied lenses.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Environmental Sciences
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 02 January 2026
- Location: Northwestern University, United States
- Field of Study: Environmental Sciences
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Core Science & Environmental Foundations
• Introduction to Environmental Science
• General Chemistry with Lab
• Calculus or Statistics for Science
• Earth Systems and Geology
Year 2 – Ecology, Data & Climate
• Principles of Ecology
• Environmental Data Analysis
• Climate Systems and Change
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Year 3 – Fieldwork & Specialized Topics
• Environmental Field Methods
• Hydrology or Biogeochemistry
• Soil and Water Quality
• Human-Environment Interactions
Year 4 – Research, Application & Capstone
• Environmental Modeling
• Independent Research Project
• Seminar in Global Environmental Challenges
• Senior Capstone in Environmental Science
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for a wide spectrum of careers in both scientific and applied environmental fields. Many work in environmental research, natural resource management, ecological consulting, and environmental monitoring, where they collect and interpret data related to air, water, soil, and ecosystems. Others take on roles in government agencies, nonprofit environmental organizations, or international development, where they contribute to conservation efforts, climate policy, or sustainable planning. With strong foundations in scientific research and field analysis, alumni are well equipped for positions in environmental education, geospatial technology, urban ecology, or environmental health. The program also provides an excellent springboard for graduate studies in environmental science, earth science, public health, or environmental engineering. Employers in both public and private sectors value their ability to synthesize complex environmental data, communicate findings, and design science-based responses to today’s most urgent ecological challenges.
Why Choose This Program
This program is the ideal path for students who want to explore Earth’s dynamic systems through a combination of field research and scientific analysis, while understanding the societal dimensions of environmental decision-making. With its interdisciplinary curriculum, students can tailor their studies toward ecology, geoscience, climate, or sustainability, supported by access to leading research labs and field stations. The program’s emphasis on applied learning, hands-on data collection, and cross-disciplinary collaboration allows students to move seamlessly between scientific theory and real-world application. Whether preparing for a career in environmental impact assessment or graduate study in earth systems science, this program equips students with the analytical tools and research experience needed to lead in solving environmental problems from the ground up.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 312 555 2040
Email: admissions@northwestern.edu
Address: University of Northwestern, 633 Clark Street, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
