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Requirements
In addition to a liberal arts core curriculum, Environmental Studies majors prepare for careers and graduate school by completing a rigorous course load.
Major
Requirements for a major in Environmental Studies.
Minor
Requirements for a minor in Environmental Studies.
Student Success
93%
of alumni state they are pleased with their decision to attend Marietta College and would make the same choice again
100%
of Marietta College’s Applied Physics graduates since 2020 were employed, attending graduate school, or serving in the military within six months of graduating
$64,396
is the average salary for Environmental Studies graduates
Students stand in a stream while collecting samples
Students chat outside of Erwin Hall at Marietta College
An Environmental Engineering major takes a sample from a stream
Students walk down the stairs toward the Rickey Science enterance

What will you learn from majoring in Environmental Studies?

Throughout your studies, you will enjoy small classes with professors from several different departments. Faculty mentors will train you in the art and science of collaboration so that stakeholders and community leaders can take ownership of the solutions proposed in your projects.

Practical Knowledge

As a senior, you will work with students from our Environmental Science major in a unique, team-based capstone experience where you will apply your collective experience to an environmental problem of local significance. Often the environmental scientists on the team analyze and study the problem, while the environmental studies majors interact with the local community to frame the issue and possible solutions. Through this experience and a wide range of internship opportunities, you will gain the practical knowledge you need to make an impact.

Hands-on Research

At Marietta College, research and development are encouraged — and celebrated! Every April, students present their original research projects to their peers, faculty, staff, and the community during All Scholars Day. Over the course of four years, Marietta College Environmental Studies majors develop the skillset to identify and solve problems, as well as talk about their work to peers and professionals in the field.

More Info

Environmental Studies majors work individually and collaboratively with other Environmental Studies and Science majors on applied research and practicum projects to tie their scholarship into the study of local, real-world environmental problems.

Outcomes — Graduate Programs
  • American University — Law School
  • Brown University — Institute for Environment and Society
  • Cleveland State University — School of Planning
  • College of Charleston — M.S. in Marine Biology
  • Indiana University — School of Public and Environmental Affairs
  • Miami University — Institute of Environmental Sciences
  • Pace University — Law School
  • Stanford University — M.S. in Environmental Engineering
Outcomes — Professions
  • Alpha EMC
  • Baker Hughes
  • Chevron-Phillips Chemical Co.
  • Halliburton Energy Services
  • Kemron Environmental Services
  • NOAA/NOAA Corps.
  • Summit County Health Department
  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
  • Washington County Health Department
  • West Virginia Department of Natural Resources
  • Wood County Health Department
Rise to the Challenge

FAQs

What is the difference between an Environmental Science major and an Environmental Studies major?

Both of these majors are interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary in composition and have a focus on applied problem-solving regarding the natural environment. Environmental Science focuses on the use of science to solve problems in the natural environment, usually caused by human activity. Environmental Studies focuses on problem solving in the Human/Environment Interface and achieving sustainable solutions through the use of science, social science, and policy.

Will I be required to complete an internship to graduate?

No. However, many of our students have completed successful internships. Our faculty have industry connections — many of them Marietta College graduates — and help students find meaningful internships.

Career Center

Can I add a second major as a Environmental Studies student?

Many students select to combine their major in Environmental Studies with a major in another department. Our students commonly select:

  • Political Science
  • English
  • Geology
  • Management
  • Marketing

Students also like to pair their degree with a minor or certificate.

Are there specific scholarships for Environmental Studies majors?

Marietta College offers a variety of scholarships — some are general and some are connected to certain majors or programs.

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