Mar 19, 2024  
2016-2017 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2016-2017 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Environmental Science, B.S.


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Designed to integrate applied scientific specialties within the broad field of environmental science, the environmental science curricula prepare students for a variety of professional opportunities in government as well as the private sector, and for graduate study in such fields as toxic substance management, public health, toxicology, pharmacology, industrial hygiene and environmental planning.

Graduates of the program should be able to identify and evaluate a broad range of environmental problems. In addition, they should be able to offer solutions, anticipate hazards and prevent future problems. Studies include such areas as health in the workplace, toxic substance regulations, applied ecology, pollution prevention, air resources, water resources and public environmental policy.

Requirements for the B.S. degree


To earn a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in environmental science, students must complete a minimum of 124 credits including:

1. An introductory prerequisite core (minimum of 32 credits) including


c. Required courses in physics


d. Eight credits of mathematics above MTH 121 or statistics (STA 225 recommended)


2. Core requirements (minimum of 15 credits) including


3. Complete one of the specializations described below.


Specialization includes a minimum of 28 credits and must be approved by the program director. At least 16 of the credits taken at the 300 level or above must be taken at Oakland University.

Specialization in environmental health (minimum of 28 credits)


Based upon an extensive curriculum planning study, this option combines environmental and occupational health perspectives in scientific and technical courses designed to provide pre-professional training for careers relating human health and safety factors to working conditions. Students learn to recognize, evaluate and control actual and potential environmental hazards.

Many opportunities exist at local and state levels of government to improve health and environmental quality, focusing on toxic substance control, food protection, water quality, and waste management. Students may also pursue careers in environmental consultancy or industry, such as occupational safety and health, risk assessment, and waste management. This specialization is also designed to adequately prepare students for further pursuits of graduate studies in the fields of toxicology, public health, and environmental chemistry.   

Specialization in environmental sustainability and resource management (minimum of 28 credits)


This option emphasizes the wise use of resources, especially as they affect human health and well-being. Program electives offer training for a variety of field and laboratory opportunities including planning, resource management, environmental protection and public policy.

Notes

Elective courses for the environmental sustainability and resource management specialization must be approved by the program director.

Students using this catalog to meet the environmental studies major requirements may also use any course subsequently approved under the recommended electives and published in a later catalog.

Major standing must be achieved three semesters before graduation, and before a student reaches senior status, otherwise graduation may be delayed.


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