The core curriculum of 89 hours comprises use of computers and other communications skills and a balanced foundation in humanities, social sciences, mathematics. In a capstone course for seniors. teams of students from the various concentrations work together on environmental problems from ecological, physical, and economic perspectives. Total hours required for graduation range from 120 to 126, depending on the concentration and electives chosen. This concentration is administered by the Department of Zoology. It is designed to prepare students for graduate study leading to advanced degrees in areas such as ecological impact assessment, conservation biology, and college teaching.
Emphasis is on a strong foundation in the life sciences.
Students in this concentration must complete additional courses in zoology, biochemistry, genetics, microbiology, plant systematics, and evolutionary biology, as well as electives in applied and theoretical ecology. This concentration, administered by the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, teaches students to apply principles of economics, statistics, and supporting disciplines to societal and business aspects of environmental problems. Knowledge of basic sciences and skills in statistical and economic analysis will prepare graduates for careers in business and government, as well as for graduate study in environmental and natural resources economics and policy. Courses required for the concentration include economics and business, statistics, computer programming, and an elective in environmental policy. This concentration, administered by the Department of Soil Science, prepares students for careers in land management with special reference to soils and water.