Environmental Systems Science (ESS)

Bachelor of Science

A group of three students examine specimens in the field.

Courses you’ll
get to take:

Foundations: 23 credits
Systems science, biological science, earth science, and physical science.

Spheres: 15 credits
Anthrosphere, atmosphere, biosphere, lithosphere - environmental change, and lithosphere - hydrology and surface processes.

Skills and Tools: 12 credits
Calculus, environmental data analysis, GIS and remote sensing, and an internship experience.
Specialization: 18+ credits
Select a minor as an area of specialization.

Download course plan UW catalog

Student Spotlight

A photo of highlighted student: Celia Karim.

“The Haub School is a really inviting community that encourages students to connect deeply with other students, professors, and staff who share their interests.”

Degree BS Environmental Systems Science ‘20

Concurrent Major Environment and Natural Resources

Minors Sustainability, Music

Hometown Sacramento, California

Field and International Experiences Alpine Climate and Culture in Chamonix, semester abroad in England

Co-Curriculars UW Symphony Orchestra member, UW Chamber Orchestra member, UW Chamber Ensembles, UW String Project, Wyoming Conservation Corps Crew Member

The BS in ESS is for students seeking an introduction to the physical, biological, and human components of the Earth system through data collection, statistical analysis, information technology, and modeling.

This is an interdisciplinary environmental science degree focusing on the scientific methods, content, and tools you’ll need to succeed in an interconnected world.

A BS in ESS from the Haub School emphasizes development of essential skills:

Interdisciplinary and integrative thinking
Designing, conducting, and interpreting scientific investigations
Applying systems concepts to environmental problems
Using technological tools to examine spatial and temporal patterns

Careers:

Our economy and our world are changing rapidly. Many of the jobs, career paths, and professional opportunities you could take after you graduate might not even exist yet! The Haub School will prepare you to be a nimble, creative, and critical thinker, building the skills, knowledge, and tools you can apply to wherever you want to forge a path in the future.

BS Environmental Systems Science

Career opportunities exist in private companies like environmental consulting, reclamation/restoration, and regulatory compliance firms, with educational and research organizations like universities, labs, and K-12 schools, non-profits that specialize in science communication, public engagement, and conservation, and government agencies that manage and support natural resource stewardship and use, recreation and open space planning, and scientific research.

You could:

conduct scientific research to explore environmental challenges
manage public lands, national parks, and wilderness areas
gather data and monitor environmental conditions in the field

monitor and advise regarding environmental risk, vulnerability, and responsibility

Jobs*: Conservation Coordinator, Environmental Analyst, Consulting Forester, Research Scientist, Environmental Scientist, Natural Resource Specialist, Regulatory Affairs Analyst, Planning and Environmental Specialist, Wilderness Park Ranger, Conservation Director

Employers*: The Nature Conservancy, Western EcoSystems Technology, National Park Service, USDA Forest Service, Trihydro Corporation, Bureau of Reclamation, KC Harvey Environmental, Plenty

*real job titles and employers of Haub School alumni

Contact our advisors to learn more >