Environmental Studies
Are you concerned with protecting the earth’s limited natural resources? Do you like to study nature, plant life and animal habitat? Are you interested in geosciences and geographic information systems? You might make a great environmental studies major at Central College. Central offers a broad range of courses to give students an understanding of global and local environmental issues. Students in the program choose from one of two tracks: environmental science track or the global environmental policy track. An integral part of the program includes hands on laboratory and fieldwork and student research. Graduates have gone on to become scientists, air quality bureau specialists and waste management assistants.
Internships
Looking for experience? An internship might be the answer. When it comes to future employment or entrance into graduate school, students with internship experience have a proven track record in a professional environment. In today's competitive job market, proven experience is a priceless commodity.
Learn more about internships at Central.
The major consists of a stong background in he sciences, social sciences, and an emphasis on communication skills.
Core science courses
Elective science courses
Core social science courses
Elective social science courses
Get more details from the course catalog! (Note: this is a PDF file)
Facilities
The Vermeer Science Center recently went through a major renovation and expansion that was completed in fall 2003. The $20-million project added 40,000 square meters to the original 3,000. In addition to biology, chemistry, physics and natural science departments, the mathematics and computer science departments are located in Vermeer. The building contains 13 high-tech classrooms including a fully equipped GIS laboratory. Each contains a ceiling-mounted projector, computer with flat panel monitor, Wolfvision document camera, combination VCR/DVD player and a Ken-a-vision flex camera. Vermeer also contains several computer labs with new Dell computers with flat panel monitors and the most recent versions of math and science computer programs. Numerous science laboratories with state-of-the-art science equipment allow students to conduct their own research. Just inside the main entrance is an easy to use touchscreen kiosk with a building directory that can be searched by room or professor’s name. Central was awarded a silver Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) medal rating from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), making the science center the first LEED-rated building in the state and Central a leader in environmental design.
The Carlson-Kuyper Field Station is Central College's 62-acre nature preserve and “outdoor laboratory.” Located about 12 miles from the Pella campus, it is adjacent to the extensive wildlife areas managed by the Corps of Engineers around Lake Red Rock, Iowa’s largest lake. More info.
Departmental Web site
Environmental studies faculty maintains their own Web site with even more information about the environmental studies program.
Organizations
No matter what your interests are, Central has a student group that you’ll want to join! Environmental studies majors might be interested in joining Central's Bio-Chem Club and SCATE (students concerned about the environment).
Study Abroad
Students are encouraged to study abroad with one of Central’s eight international programs to enhance their development as global citizens, or with Central’s Chicago program and the Washington, D.C., program. Learn more about about Central’s study abroad programs.
