Environmental Studies, A.S.

Associate in Science Degree Program

Hegis Code: 5499.00
NYSED Code: 29579

Program Description

The Environmental Studies Program includes comprehensive courses in biology, environmental science, mathematics, and chemistry. It also provides optional hands‐on training through available field‐based internships. Students can prepare for a variety of careers in the environmental field. Students have the option of following one of two tracks. One is an transfer track for Environmental Science, the other is a transfer track for Geographic Information Science with GPS.

These tracks are designed to prepare students for transfer to baccalaureate programs. The program affords easy transfer to schools such as SUNY ESF, SUNY Plattsburgh, and SUNY New Paltz, as well as many private institutions of higher learning.

Student Learning Outcomes

At the completion of the Environmental Studies A.S. Degree program, students will be able to:

• Master core concepts in the biological, chemical, geological, and physical sciences and math;
• Function successfully in both the laboratory and field settings and demonstrate competency with technical equipment and research methods;
• Apply the scientific method, both experimental and observational, to scientific problems;
• Access and evaluate the modern scientific literature base in order to address problems and issues in science;
• Achieve basic environmental literacy: understand complex environmental problems from various perspectives and understand the multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies;
• Effectively communicate ideas, both written and oral;
• Demonstrate skills needed to think critically, analytically, globally, and ethically, enhancing their performance as productive workers, leaders and citizens in a democratic society.

Employment Potential

Environmental issues remain a growth area, and graduates of the Environmental Studies program at SUNY Ulster will leave the College well placed for an expanding job market. Demand for this expertise is particularly strong in the Hudson River Valley and the Catskills Watershed Region. Graduates have found employment with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the Ulster County Department of Health, and the New York State Department of Health, as well as private companies and local municipalities.

Graduates of the program will be qualified for such positions as environmental technicians, laboratory technicians, wetland field technicians, or environmental trainees. In addition, this program prepares students to pursue additional education in fields such as environmental law, environmental engineering, and biology.

Requirements for Program Entry

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Satisfactory placement in Entering Student Assessment

Developmental Assistance Available

For students who do not meet basic reading and math requirements or who have other learning issues, extra assistance is readily available through SUNY Ulster’s Learning Center, The Gary and Janaki Math Center, the Writing Center, the Peer and Friend Tutor Program, and English as a Second Language (ESL) tutors.

For More Information

admissions@sunyulster.edu
1‐800‐724‐0833 ext. 5018 or 5022
Monika Espinasa
Coordinator, Environmental Studies
Office: Hardenbergh Hall, HAR 228
Phone: 800:724‐0833, ext. 5165 845:687‐5165
E‐mail: espinasm@sunyulster.edu