Because of its interdisciplinary nature, the academic program is broader than most other science programs. The Department of Environmental Sciences conducts research and offers instruction in the areas of Ecology, Geosciences, Hydrology, and Atmospheric Sciences. This unique integration of several sciences fosters cooperation and the exchange of information and ideas on the scientific problems and issues of the environment. The research efforts of both faculty and students, whether disciplinary or interdisciplinary, deal largely with problems of fundamental scientific interest and, to a lesser extent, with applied science, management and policy making.
Ecology depends upon a basic understanding of chemistry and biology.
Hydrology, geosciences, and atmospheric science depend more on physics and chemistry. All of these areas depend on calculus and the techniques of statistics and computer programming. Most applications and analysis of legal or policy issues depend on basic economics. The Department s required related work in many of these areas fosters success in research and in the competition for top jobs and graduate school. There is an extensive array of courses offered through the Department.