Ecological Studies (BA.ECS)

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For further information about this major, contact Dr. Cynthia Moulton, the Ecological Studies Coordinator: Cynthia.Moulton@Castleton.edu

The B.A. in Ecological Studies offers students an opportunity to explore the science of ecology and the environment within the tradition of the liberal arts major. The multidisciplinary curriculum cultivates a broad understanding of the interconnectedness of living organisms and environmental systems, including the interactions between humans and the natural world.

Graduates will be prepared for careers in government and non-government environmental organizations as park naturalists, research/field technicians, wildlife specialists, environmental advocacy staff, nature writers, and outdoor educators. Additionally, some students may pursue graduate programs in science education, natural resource management, and environmental law/policy.

Further, students completing the degree requirements for the B.A. in Ecological Studies will have all necessary coursework required for professional certification through the Ecological Society of America.

Complete the following courses (42-43 cr):

BIO 1121 - Biology I 4 cr (grade of C or higher required)
BIO 1122 - Biology II 4 cr (grade of C or higher required)
CHE 1041 - General Chemistry I 4 cr (grade of C or higher required)
CHE 1042 - General Chemistry II 4 cr (grade of C or higher required)
GEY 1030 - Dynamic Earth 4 cr
-OR- GEY 1050 - The Earth through Time 4 cr
BIO 2035 - Animal Diversity and Evolution 4 cr
BIO 2125 - Fundamentals of Microbiology 4 cr
GEO 2210 - Introduction to Geographic Information Systems 3 or 4 cr
-OR- SCI 2210 - Introduction to Geographic Information Systems 3 or 4 cr
BIO 3030 - Ecology of Water 3 cr
BIO 3060 - Ecology 4 cr
BIO 3065 - Plant Ecology 4 cr

And complete 1 of the following courses (3-4 cr):

BIO 3013 - Biogeochemistry 4 cr
BIO 3160 - Animal Behavior 4 cr
BIO 3350 - Natural History of the Mojave Desert 4 cr
BIO 4035 - Advanced Molecular Biology 4 cr
BIO 4250 - Ecotoxicology 3 cr
GEY 3110 - Hydrogeology 4 cr

(Credits required for the major: 45-47 cr)

And complete a minor

Students majoring in Ecological Studies are required to complete a minor (approved by the program coordinator) in one of the many disciplines available at Castleton. Note that students may not minor in Biology or Natural Sciences.

And complete the University's Gen Ed requirements

Review the Gen Ed requirements.

Recommendation

We strongly recommend that students complete an internship relating to their career goals.

Note

The B.A. in Ecological Studies may not be combined with the BS.BIO, the BS.ENV, or a minor in Biology or Natural Sciences.