The Rubenstein School Environmental Sciences Program combines a natural science-based core curriculum with field and lab-based environmental coursework designed to engage students in tackling real-world environmental problems. This blending of a strong science foundation with hands-on instruction, research, internships, and study abroad opportunities provide students with the knowledge and professional skills needed to identify and respond to complex environmental challenges.
Students enrolled in the program will receive a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences and will be prepared to use foundational knowledge from diverse fields, critical thinking, and integrative analyses to sustainably manage social-ecological systems.
Environmental Sciences was historically offered as a cross-college program. Students enrolled Spring 2022 and prior completed or will complete their degree through one of three colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources. The Environmental Sciences Program is now exclusively offered through the Rubenstein School. It remains an interdisciplinary degree and students continue to learn from faculty across UVM.
ENSC major requirements in the Rubenstein School:
- Completion of ENSC foundational coursework (CHEM 031, CHEM 032, BCOR 011, BCOR 012, MATH 019, MATH 020, NR 140, GEOL 055 or PSS 161) - 30 credits
- Completion of core ENSC courses (ENSC 001, ENSC 009, ENSC 130, ENSC 160, ENSC 201, ENSC 202) - 19 credits
- 14-17 credits at the 100 level or higher in an ENSC concentration of your choice
- Completion of the RSENR core curriculum (NR 001, NR 002, NR 006, NR103, NR 104, NR 205, NR 206, NR 207) - 24 credits
- Completion of additional UVM General Education requirements (ENGS 1, NR 021, D1 or D2 elective) - 8 credits
- Additional coursework to reach 120 credit hours for a Bachelor of Sciences (BS) degree - 25 additional elective credits (can be a minor or study abroad)