Environmental Science is the study of the nature and the interactions between humans and the living and non-living world around them. The Environmental Science major at Biola is designed to give the student a biblically based view of creation in order to become a knowledgeable, skilled steward of the earth and its natural resources.

What will I study?

The Biola Environmental Science major is structured to develop your competence in problem solving, critical thinking, writing, and biblical integration of your faith with your academic discipline. Core courses include Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Biostatistics.

A major in Environmental Science includes preparation in the following applied sciences:

• Geology
• Botany
• Ecology
• Environmental Chemistry
• Organismal Biology
• Natural Resource Management
• Environmental Policy
• Environmental Ethics

[Download Degree Requirement Sheets]

Admissions Requirements

You will be required to take a Chemistry and/or Physics Placement exam.

The Science Department suggests an SAT score of 500 (or the ACT equivalent) to pursue this major.

Why choose Environmental Science at Biola?

• A majority of the professors have worked in the field and teach current information supported by recent experience
• Students gain hands-on experience and a chance to apply what they learn in the classroom to the real world
• Off-campus field studies opportunities with a variety of summer or semester-long programs
• In Southern California, Biola is close to a great variety of environments and habitats, from the ocean to the desert to the mountains
• Opportunities for short-term missions trips with stewardship and creation care implications
• Faculty dedicated to helping you grow in your field of study, career preparation and your faith
• Biblically based creation care and stewardship
• Small class sizes allow for great opportunities to interact and be mentored by faculty

Interesting classes I might take

• Marine Biology
• Natural History of California
• Alpine Ecology
• Marine Invertebrates
• Global Development & Ecological Sustainability
• Conservation Biology
• Environmental Health

What can I do with a degree in Environmental Science?

Graduating as an Environmental Science major with a Bachelor of Science degree, you can obtain a job in wildlife biology, forestry, environmental law and policy, restoration ecology, environmental geology and applied missions. With further graduate training one can pursue positions in college-level teaching, government agencies like the EPA, environmental impact report writing and assessment, and environmental engineering. Specific careers from this major include:

• Forest Ranger/Park Ranger
• Air/Water Quality Manager
• Environmental Analyst
• Naturalist
• EPA Inspector
• Fisheries Conservationist
• Outdoor Education Specialist
• Environmental Health Specialist