American University Catalog 2017-2018 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Environmental Science
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Chair Stephen MacAvoy
Full-Time Faculty
Professor Emeritus A.M. Cheh, D.C. Culver
Professor K. Kim
Associate Professor S.E. MacAvoy
Assistant Professor M. Alonzo, V. Aquila, K.L. Knee
Professorial Lecturer J.C. Meiller, C. Pondell, A. van Doorn
Environment science has become a nexus of a broad range of global issues including climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and resource depletion. Environmental sustainability, which combines scientific, economic, and social considerations, provides a valuable framework for addressing these issues.
The goal of the Department of Environmental Science is to inspire and train leaders in the sustainability of our planet. The program offers rigorous and interdisciplinary curricula that are firmly grounded in the natural sciences and provide both the knowledge and critical thinking skills to make sound, rational decisions and to effectively engage in public discourse concerning current and emerging environmental issues.
The Department of Environmental Science offers five interdisciplinary programs of study: Environmental Studies (BA) , Environmental Science (BS) , Environmental Science (Minor) , Environmental Science (MS) , and Environmental Assessment (Graduate Certificate) .
The Environmental Studies (BA) begins with a set of foundational courses in both the natural and social sciences. The student then chooses from an approved list of related courses spanning disciplines, from across AU to create a course of study suited to their interests and professional goals. Students also gain practical experience through an internship at one of the many public and private environmental organizations in the Washington, DC area or through research with faculty. Graduates are prepared for employment in a broad range of fields where scientific information is applied in the development and implementation of environmental policies and procedures.
The Environmental Science (BS) draws principally from the natural sciences, including biology, chemistry, earth sciences, physics, mathematics, and statistics. In addition to classroom work, the program provides students with training in both field and laboratory techniques applicable to the study of the natural environment. Students are strongly encouraged to seek research experience with faculty and engage in the creation of new scientific knowledge. Opportunities to carry out research at one of the many research institutions in the Washington, DC area are also available. Graduates are prepared for a broad range of opportunities, from serving as a scientist for public or private environmental organizations, to professional school in health, law, or engineering, to graduate school in either natural or social sciences.
The Environmental Science (Minor) is available for those interested in adding breadth to their natural science or social science degree. The minor prepares students for employment in environmental research, policy, or management, or for further graduate work in the natural or social sciences.
The Environmental Science (MS) prepares students to analyze and develop responses to environmental problems. The program offers two tracks: course-based or research-based. Students in the course-based program take a core set of science and statistics courses and a selection of complementary courses in environmental policy. Additionally, students are encouraged to gain practical field experience through an internship at one or more of the many public and private environmental organizations in the Washington, DC area. Students in the research-based program carry out thesis research projects with faculty in the department, associated and affiliated faculty at AU, or with researchers at one of the many research institutions in the Washington, DC area. Graduates of either tracks are prepared to engage in high-level, environmental problem solving or pursue advanced studies in environmental science.
The Environmental Assessment (Graduate Certificate) is a more focused program designed to provide students with advanced understanding of the environmental impacts of human activities, with both domestic and international scope. Graduates are prepared to characterize these impacts and develop strategies for mitigation or remediation.
Study Abroad
American University’s AU Abroad program offers study abroad programs in which students take courses, participate in internships, and interact with public officials and political leaders. Students wishing to use courses from study abroad programs to count as their capstone must obtain approval of the undergraduate advisor.
Honors in Environmental Science
The Honors in Environmental Science program engages students in the process of scientific exploration. Under the guidance of a faculty member, students apply for grant funding, design and conduct a year and a half long research project, and prepare a manuscript for publication of their research all while taking advanced course work designed to enhance their knowledge and understanding of the scientific theories and processes underlying their research. Students admitted to the program are encouraged to participate in scientific conferences to share their research in a public forum and to meet leading researchers in the field.
ProgramsMajor Program (UG)Minor (UG)Master’s Program (GR)Certificate (GR)
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