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 (30-31 cr):

BIO 1121 - Biology I 4 cr
BIO 1122 - Biology II 4 cr
CHE 1041 - General Chemistry I 4 cr
OR CHE 1110 - Introduction to Environmental Chemistry 3cr OR CHE 1051 - Chemistry I 4cr
GEY 1030 - Dynamic Earth 4 cr
-OR- GEY 1050 - The Earth through Time 4 cr
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 3 of the following courses (11-12 cr)

BIO 2035 - Animal Diversity and Evolution 4 cr
BIO 2125 - Fundamentals of Microbiology 4 cr
BIO 2165 - Flora of Vermont 4 cr
BIO 2530 - Conservation Biology & Biogeography 3 cr
CHE 1042 - General Chemistry II 4 cr
CHE 1052 - Chemistry II 4 cr

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

BIO 3013 - Biogeochemistry: Soils & Elemental Cycles 4 cr
BIO 3015 - Urban Ecology 4 cr
BIO 3160 - Animal Behavior 4 cr
BIO 3350 - Natural History of the Mojave Desert 4 cr
BIO 4250 - Ecotoxicology 3 cr
BIO 4260 - Field Techniques and Current Topics in Wildlife Biology 3 cr
GEY 3110 - Hydrogeology 4 cr

(Credits required for the major: 44-47 cr)

And fulfill one of these conditions:

Complete a minor (approved by the program coordinator) in one of the many disciplines available at Castleton University.
Complete an additional 18 credits of BIO, CHE, GEY, PHY, and/or WFC courses.
Completed 2 years of relevant work experience (approved by the program coordinator) or 2 years of military service.
Completed a previous degree (either an associate's or bachelor's degree) from Castleton University or other accredited institution.

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.