The curriculum is shaped by the philosophy that environmental science and policy are inseparable. Students build on the VCU Life Sciences general education requirements, with core math and sciences, which prepare them for later physical and social sciences classes tied to the environment. Class lectures and guest speakers introduce the importance of policy-making and awareness in the environmental field, while laboratory and internship experiences provide a working knowledge of the latest in environmental technology and field practices.
The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies requires a minimum of 120 credits. Along with the general education requirements of VCU Life Sciences, this curriculum requires 32-33 credits in core science and mathematics courses and 37-38 credits in environmental studies core courses.
Learning outcomes:
- Demonstrate comprehension of basic biological concepts and their integration
- Demonstrate comprehension of basic earth science concepts and their integration
- Demonstrate comprehension of basic ecological concepts and their integration
- Relate the principles of environmental science and policy
- Use basic environmental skills within the research process