Bachelor of Arts
Environmental Science
Faculty
TRAVIS ALMQUIST, PH.D.
ASHLEY BECK, PH.D.
CALVIN GOEMANN,
PH.D.PATRICIA HEISER, PH.D., DIRECTOR
MANDY LIPINSKI, PH.D.
Mission and Goals
The Environmental Program at Carroll College is an integrated and collaborative effort designed to foster connection with the environment and responsible stewardship of the natural resources, ecosystems, and wild areas we depend on. Our goal is to prepare students to become sound environmental citizens who can understand the interdisciplinary connections and practical collaborations that will lead us to a more sustainable future.
The Environmental Science major emphasizes field-based and project oriented studies, fosters critical thinking and problem solving, and experience with practical field skills. Our progressive field based curriculum centers on the process of scientific investigation, experiential learning, reflection and communication. Course-based research experiences, spanning from freshman year to graduation, are designed to prepare students for independent thesis projects or internships, and ultimately graduate study or an environmental career. A high percentage of Environmental students participate in research, complete an independent thesis, present at a variety of regional and national professional settings, and/or work as interns at local, state, and federal agencies.
This major is an excellent option for students seeking a career path in scientific field work, environmental assessment, resource conservation, and for those intending to continue with graduate studies in environmental or natural sciences. It is especially designed for the curious, interested, or undecided student desiring a solid introduction to sciences, practical analytical skills, and broad range of field experience.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Graduates will demonstrate an integrated understanding of basic environmental sciences and scientific practice.
- A sound understanding of the basic principles of biology, chemistry and the earth sciences and the relationships between them
- The critical thinking skills needed for solving problems in a changing world
- An ability to evaluate and interpret scientific data and to analyze and synthesize information from different sources
- A working knowledge of and practical experience in fundamental environmental field and laboratory techniques
- The writing and speaking skills needed to communicate effectively across disciplines
- Graduates will demonstrate an understanding of the human dimension of environmental stewardship.
- An understanding of basic political processes, environmental policies, and regulations operating at local, national and global levels
- An evolving knowledge of sustainable economic practices
- An ability to integrate and communicate science and social science data with integrity and reason
Degrees
Courses
ES-111: Earth Science
Credits 4Natural Science with Lab. An introduction to Earth and the geologic processes that shape our planet. Topics include origin and formation of solar system, interior structure of the planet, plate teotonics, geologic history, and the erosion process that shape the surface on which life depends. We will also discuss geologic resources, geologic hazards, human impacts, and the climate system. Lecture topics are reinforced by hands-on laboratory and field trips that include rock and mineral identification, interpretation of geologic features, use of maps and satellite imagery.
ES-124: Climate and Environment
Credits 3Natural Science with Lab. This course provides a basic scientific knowledge and understanding of how our planet works from a global environmental systems perspective. Topics covered include: basic physical principles, driving forces, and the interconnection of dynamic earth systems (lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, biosphere, cryosphere), fundamentals of climate science, meteorology, oceanography, climate change, resource use, human impacts, environmental health and sustainability. MUST TAKE ES-134 LABORATORY CONCURRENTLY.
ES-133L: Field Ecology Lab
Credits 1Natural Science with Lab. ES 133L is a one-semester laboratory experience specifically designed for environmental students, or those interested in field studies. This course emphasizes macro-scale biology (plants and animals, evolution and ecology). Field and laboratory projects will feature authentic studies important to our local and regional ecosystems and will emphasize marketable skills of value to environmental scientists. Math explorations will help students understand how mathematics can yield profound insights into biological concepts.
ES-134: Climate and Environment Laboratory
Credits 1Natural Science with Lab. This laboratory provides hands on experiential learning in various environmental sciences. Students will acquire skills in: environmental field and lab sciences, data collection and analysis, problem solving, field and computer mapping and interpreting scientific information. Students will also investigate case studies of environmental problems and solutions and learn to communicate different perspectives effectively. MUST BE TAKEN CONCURRENTLY WITH ES-124 LECTURE.
ES-189: Special Topic
Credits 1 3Special Topics courses include ad-hoc courses on various selected topics that are not part of the regular curriculum, however they may still fulfill certain curricular requirements. Special topics courses are offered at the discretion of each department and will be published as part of the semester course schedule - view available sections for more information. Questions about special topics classes can be directed to the instructor or department chair.
ES-200: Environmental Exploration
Credits 2Environmental Exploration is an experiential course designed to introduce students to the many perspectives from which they can engage with the natural world. The course begins with a week-long river trip down the Missouri River where students and faculty explore the integration of the scientific, social, political, historical and spiritual aspects of a wilderness landscape. Faculty from the Environmental program will be joined by faculty from anthropology, philosophy, English, other humanities and social sciences. Students will develop skills in the observation, description and interpretation of the natural world, building connections with the la the Carroll faculty, and with each other. The second part of the course includes weekly meetings or field trips exploring the many and diverse environmental careers that students may pursue. From non-profits, to government agencies to outdoor education, student will hear from the different professional who have followed or found careers preserving, protecting, restoring, or teaching about the environment.
ES-200L: Environmental Exploration Field
Credits 0Environmental Exploration Field - Missouri River Trip is an experiential course designed to introduce students to the many perspectives from which they can engage with the natural world. The course begins with a five day river trip down the Missouri River White Cliffs section where students and faculty explore the integration of the scientific, social, political, historical and spiritual aspects of a wilderness landscape. Faculty from the Environmental program may be joined by faculty from anthropology, philosophy, English, other humanities, sciences, or social sciences. Students will develop skills in the observation, description and interpretation of the natural world, building connections with the Carroll faculty, and with each other. The second part of the course, ES 200 Environmental Exploration, includes weekly meetings or field trips exploring the many and diverse environmental careers that students may pursue. From non-profits, to government agencies to outdoor education, student will hear from the different professional who have followed or found careers preserving, protecting, restoring, or teaching about the environment. (SUMMER- before Fall Semester starts)
ES-201: Environmental Practicum
Credits 1A practical exploration of an environmental issue on the Carroll College campus, or encompassing the campus and the local community, through class analysis of the issue and concrete engagement with its resolution. The course may be taken for credit up to three times in different semesters, with an exploration of at least two different topics/projects. aA practical exploration of an environmental issue on the Carroll College campus or the local community, through class analysis of the issue and concrete engagement with its resolution. May also be service learning experience promoting sustainability initiatives on campus or within the community. The course may be taken for credit up to three times in different semesters, with an exploration of, or participation in at least two different topics/projects. Students must work with an advisor to prepare a proposal and must receive prior approval to register. Students must work with an advisor to prepare a proposal and must receive prior approval to register.
ES-220: Conservation Biology
Credits 3A course designed to improve the scientific literacy of students interested in solving the conservation/environmental challenges that result from overuse of natural resources. Using concepts and practices from taxonomy, ecology, genetics, and geography, conservation biology seeks the most effective strategies for addressing threats to biological diversity, ecological integrity and environmental health.
ES-250: Field Zoology: Entomology
Credits 2With an ever-growing concern about the conservation of biodiversity, there is increasing emphasis on developing skills and techniques to inventory species distributions and to monitor population dynamics. Field sampling techniques and skills in taxonomy are crucial to conservation surveillance. This course is an introduction to basic field and curator skills necessary to collect, manage and maintain specimen data for biological inventory and monitoring. The specific aims for this ten-week experience are: 1) to develop collection techniques in a field setting; 2) to practice processing and management of specimens and associated data; 3) to communicate findings to Montana stake holders.
ES-251: Field Zoology: Herpetology
Credits 2With an ever-growing concern about the conservation of biodiversity, there is increasing emphasis on developing skills and techniques to inventory species distributions and to monitor population dynamics. Field sampling techniques and skills in taxonomy are crucial to conservation surveillance. This course is an introduction to basic field and curator skills necessary to collect, manage and maintain specimen data for biological inventory and monitoring. The specific aims for this ten-week experience are: 1) to develop collection techniques in a field setting; 2) to practice processing and management of specimens and associated data; 3) to communicate findings to Montana stake holders.
ES-252: Field Zoology: Ichthyology
Credits 2With an ever-growing concern about the conservation of biodiversity, there is increasing emphasis on developing skills and techniques to inventory species distributions and to monitor population dynamics. Field sampling techniques and skills in taxonomy are crucial to conservation surveillance. This course is an introduction to basic field and curator skills necessary to collect, manage and maintain specimen data for biological inventory and monitoring. The specific aims for this ten-week experience are: 1) to develop collection techniques in a field setting; 2) to practice processing and management of specimens and associated data; 3) to communicate findings to Montana stake holders.
ES-253: Field Zoology: Ornithology
Credits 2With an ever-growing concern about the conservation of biodiversity, there is increasing emphasis on developing skills and techniques to inventory species distributions and to monitor population dynamics. Field sampling techniques and skills in taxonomy are crucial to conservation surveillance. This course is an introduction to basic field and curator skills necessary to collect, manage and maintain specimen data for biological inventory and monitoring. The specific aims for this ten-week experience are: 1) to develop collection techniques in a field setting; 2) to practice processing and management of specimens and associated data; 3) to communicate findings to Montana stake holders.
ES-289: Special Topic
Credits 1 3Special Topics courses include ad-hoc courses on various selected topics that are not part of the regular curriculum, however they may still fulfill certain curricular requirements. Special topics courses are offered at the discretion of each department and will be published as part of the semester course schedule - view available sections for more information. Questions about special topics classes can be directed to the instructor or department chair.
ES-300: Environmental Field Studies
Credits 3Designed as a field immersion experience followed by a open-ended project work, students will practice basic field techniques, collect original data and complete at least one analytical project. Examples of field courses include: Winter Ecology in Yellowstone, Alaska Field Studies, Tropical Ecology, Desert Ecology or Natural History of Montana. Offered on rotational basis and/or upon student and faculty interest.
ES-300G: Environmental Field Study
Credits 3Designed as a field immersion experience followed by an open-ended project experience, students will practice basic field techniques, collect original data and complete at least one analytical project. Examples of field experiences include: Winter Ecology in Yellowstone, Alaska Landscape Dynamics, Tropical Ecology, and Natural History of Montana. Global Diversity may apply when it is offered as a study abroad.
ES-380: Soil Genesis and Classification
Credits 4An introduction to the chemical, physical, and biological properties of soils; the origin, classification and distribution of soils and their influence on people and food production; the management and conservation of soils; and the environmental impact of soil use. Units on soil geomorphology, sediments, slopes, engineering soils. Intensive labs and at least one weekend field trip will provide students a broad understanding and exposure to the various ways to investigate, describe, and classify soils, as well as how to apply knowledge of soils in a range of disciplines.
ES-381: Landscape Processes
Credits 3A project and field-based introduction to the identification and interpretation of landforms, investigation of landscape forming processes (streams, glaciers, weathering, slopes) and the interpretation of climate / environmental history from sediments and stratigraphy. Field projects include: bedrock and surficial geologic mapping, glacier reconstruction, slope analysis, and description and interpretation of sediments. The fall semester emphasizes field studies, data collection and the development of course-based research projects that are continued into following spring semester.
ES-382: Landscape Analysis
Credits 4This course is a continuation of the project-based field studies initiated during fall semester (ES 381 Landscape Processes). Research questions and project ideas developed in the fall will be continued in spring where laboratory, statistical, and geospatial analysis are emphasized. Students complete final written reports connecting their work the existing literature, and give oral presentations of their results.
ES-389: Special Topic
Credits 1 3Special Topics courses include ad-hoc courses on various selected topics that are not part of the regular curriculum, however they may still fulfill certain curricular requirements. Special topics courses are offered at the discretion of each department and will be published as part of the semester course schedule - view available sections for more information. Questions about special topics classes can be directed to the instructor or department chair.
ES-400: Environmental Omega
Credits 1Environmental Omega is a senior capstone experience where students compile a final portfolio of the work they have completed over the course of their degree, reflect on internship/research and/or field experiences, and chart a path for the future. Meeting once a week, students will come together as a peer -working group as they prepare applications for graduate school or employment and discuss relevant readings and current environmental issues.
ES-401: Environmental Impact Assessment
Credits 2This class is designed to provide an analytical overview of the theory and practice of National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), which is used to identify potential environmental impacts of various activities and to propose means to avoid or reduce the significant impacts. The class will concentrate on understanding the role of NEPA (and MEPA in Montana) in regards to environmental management, including the strengths and limitations. The class will utilize application exercises and expert guest speakers to present examples of current NEPA practices.
ES-425: Internship
Credits 1 6Sed Vitae. Internship Experiences recognize that learning can take place outside the classroom. Carroll College allows its students to participate in opportunities that relate to their area of study. This opportunity must relate directly a student's program of study in order to qualify for an internship. Close cooperation among Carroll and the participating organizations ensures an experience that contributes significantly to the student's overall growth and professional development. Juniors and seniors in any major area may participate with the approval of faculty internship advisor and/or department chair, Career Services, and a site supervisor. Students will receive academic credit and may or may not receive monetary compensation for an internship. A student may apply a maximum of 12 semester hours to degree requirements; academic departments will determine the number of credits that may count toward the major (most majors accept 6 hours total). Enrollment in the course must be during the same semester in which the experience takes place. Interested students should contact their academic advisor and Career Services prior to the start of an experience.
ES-485: Independent Study
Credits 1 3Independent study is open to junior and senior students only. At the time of application, a student must have earned a 3.0 cumulative grade point average. A student may register for no more than three (3) semester hours of independent study in any one term. In all cases, registration for independent study must be approved by the appropriate department chairperson and the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
ES-489: Special Topic
Credits 1 3Special Topics courses include ad-hoc courses on various selected topics that are not part of the regular curriculum, however they may still fulfill certain curricular requirements. Special topics courses are offered at the discretion of each department and will be published as part of the semester course schedule - view available sections for more information. Questions about special topics classes can be directed to the instructor or department chair.
ES-498: Environmental Research
Credits 1 3A senior year research paper or research project, in lieu of an honors thesis, focused on a specific environmental issue or research question; the paper or project should provide evidence of scholarship, data analysis and interpretation, and a written report presented to the department faculty and student peers.
ES-499: Senior Thesis
Credits 1 3The senior thesis is designed to encourage creative thinking and to stimulate individual research. A student may undertake a thesis in an area in which s/he has the necessary background. Ordinarily a thesis topic is chosen in the student's major or minor. It is also possible to choose an interdisciplinary topic. Interested students should decide upon a thesis topic as early as possible in the junior year so that adequate attention may be given to the project. In order to be eligible to apply to write a thesis, a student must have achieved a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.25 based upon all courses attempted at Carroll College. The thesis committee consists of a director and two readers. The thesis director is a full-time Carroll College faculty member from the student's major discipline or approved by the department chair of the student's major. At least one reader must be from outside the student's major. The thesis director and the appropriate department chair must approve all readers. The thesis committee should assist and mentor the student during the entire project. For any projects involving human participants, each student and his or her director must follow the guidelines published by the Institutional Review Board (IRB). Students must submit a copy of their IRB approval letter with their thesis application. As part of the IRB approval process, each student and his or her director must also complete training by the National Cancer Institute Protection of Human Participants. The thesis is typically to be completed for three (3) credits in the discipline that best matches the content of the thesis. Departments with a designated thesis research/writing course may award credits differently with approval of the Curriculum Committee. If the thesis credits exceed the full-time tuition credit limit for students, the charge for additional credits will be waived. Applications and further information are available in the Registrar's Office.