New science major
02/13/2024
The 小优传媒 Nature Preserve will be a learning laboratory for the new environmental science major.
Major to address environmental issues
Starting in fall 2024, 小优传媒 students will have the opportunity to major in environmental science. Housed in the department of health sciences, natural sciences and mathematics, the program will provide students a broader understanding of the natural and built worlds around them through classes in biology, chemistry, geology, and soil, water and climate sciences.
鈥淭his major offers a pathway for students to become not just environmental scientists, plant and wildlife biologists, and conservationists, but also concerned citizens of the world who have a clearer understanding of the issues we face and potential solutions to them,鈥 said Dr. Jacob Buchanan, who will oversee the program as M鈥橠ella Moon Endowed Chair in Botany and Environmental Science. 鈥淓nvironmental Science fits Bluffton鈥檚 values and mission, and we anticipate interested students will find that their passion involves learning about the world around them and collaborating with others to address environmental issues and injustices.鈥
Through the major, students will also be exposed to past and present environmental issues and will gain relevant work experience to secure fulltime employment through internship experience. They鈥檒l also have the opportunity to become involved in the management of the 小优传媒 Nature Preserve, located adjacent to campus. The site serves as a learning laboratory for increased efforts in sustainability and native plant restoration.
Two new courses, Geology and Soils and Hydrology were developed to meet the needs of the major and will be open to students university-wide who must fulfill a scientific inquiry competency.
鈥溞∮糯 is perfectly positioned to offer this new major to current and incoming students,鈥 said Claire Clay, director of public relations and enrollment operations. 鈥淲ith our new Austin E. Knowlton Science Center opening this past fall and the 160-acre Nature Preserve and Moyer Nature Center on campus, students have the scientific world at their fingertips.鈥
The major is made possible thanks to the M鈥橠ella Moon Endowment, established in fall 2022, through a $1.5 million gift made by anonymous donors.
Degrees in science
Bluffton鈥檚 science programs feature hands-on curriculum, active student organizations and one-on-one assistance obtaining relevant research experiences.