New environmental science major addresses critical world issues

With the Paris climate agreement atop the daily news and elite scientists weighing in on the future of the world and humankind, the need for highly skilled environmental scientists is ever-growing.

Baldwin Wallace's new environmental science major, scheduled to begin fall 2018, is a rigorous, interdisciplinary program combining biology, chemistry and geology. It includes comprehensive coursework, a capstone seminar, and extensive research and field experiences.

Rigorous, Real-World Studies

Under the leadership of Dr. Carrie Davis Todd, associate professor, the environmental science major challenges students to explore, analyze and hypothesize solutions for the many issues facing the Earth and its inhabitants.

"Environmental threats impact all of us," explained Davis Todd. "Every day, there are complex issues being analyzed, debated and addressed by scientists as well as businesses, special interest groups and government agencies.

"From land use to air and water systems to waste management, population growth and more, the complex interaction between humans and nature challenges us to examine the many ways we impact our world for its betterment or detriment," she noted.

Interdisciplinary Focus Provides Problem-Solving Advantages

"Individuals who can address these multi-faceted issues in an interdisciplinary, scientific way are valued for the outstanding critical thinking and problem-solving skills they bring to the profession," she added. "That's the inherent strength of BW's environmental science major. It combines biology, chemistry and geology so students can have a more holistic view of the problem and, therefore, the solution."

BW is now enrolling students interested in majoring in environmental science. Questions about the major can be addressed to Davis Todd.