Environmental Science
Associate Degree

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Why Earn an Associate Degree in Environmental Science at NCC?

NCC's Environmental Science Program provides an in-depth understanding of the interrelation between living and nonliving systems. The program unites a number of disciplines so students can understand the biologic, hydrologic, geologic, and atmospheric components of the earth and the role of human beings on the earth. The program can be customized to prepare for the range of majors and fields that are based in the environment, including laboratory sciences, wildlife conservation, resource management, environmental law, human ecology, and more. NCC's degree parallels the first two years of most four-year programs and is designed for transfer; NCC has transfer agreements with a number of colleges where students of the program can transfer their credits in full. Students graduating from NCC often transfer to schools such as East Stroudsburg University, Cedar Crest College, and the State University of New York-College of Environmental Sciences and Forestry.

 

What You'll Learn 

Through this program, you'll develop the necessary oral and written communication skills to share discipline-specific knowledge and communicate professionally. Additionally, you'll learn to conduct scientific inquiry and research on environmental topics and demonstrate proficiency in laboratory and field settings, using modern scientific instrumentation and computer technology. As you prioritize environmental safety, ensuring both personal and group safety, you'll learn to interpret scientific data and make policy recommendations based on the scientific method. Join our program and enhance your understanding of environmental science while developing essential skills for your future career.



Program Details

Semesters: 4

Credits: 63

College Catalog: View Curriculum

Program Map: Download PDF

Locations: Bethlehem | Pocono

Program Overview:

As an Environmental Science student, you will experience a broad and dynamic field that unites a number of disciplines so you can understand the biologic, hydrologic, geologic, and atmospheric components of the Earth and the role of human beings on the Earth. In addition, an information explosion has occurred in Environmental Science that will provide you with opportunities in many facets of the field. With a curriculum that parallels the first two years of most four-year programs, NCC can provide you will the foundational knowledge and skills in this expanding area of science in preparation for transfer to a four-year college or university program.



Build a Stackable Degree

Students pursuing their Environmental Science degree also have the opportunity to build on their studies by stacking their AS with our Sustainable Energy Specialized Diploma (SD). Building a stackable degree allows students to graduate in 2.5 years and provides them with both the practical skills and knowledge of the field while also teaching them to apply those skills into the broader context of environmental problems faced by the world today. These programs prepare students to explore a number of direct career avenues or continue along their academic pathways to ultimately pursue careers such as environmental engineers, environmental chemists, or materials scientists.

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Future Career Paths

Environmental scientists and specialists use their knowledge of the natural sciences to protect the environment and human health. They may clean up polluted areas, advise policy makers, or work with industry to reduce waste. Environmental scientists and specialists work in offices and laboratories. Some may spend time in the field gathering data and monitoring environmental conditions firsthand. Most environmental scientists and specialists work full time.

Heightened public interest in the hazards facing the environment, as well as the increasing demands placed on the environment by population growth, is expected to spur demand for roles such as:

  • Environmental Scientist
  • Environmental Specialist
  • Wildlife Conservation
  • Environmental Law

Need Help Deciding?

Not sure if this is the right program for you? Take advantage of the resources we have available for students to help hone in on what path to pursue.


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