Lycoming College adds new environmental science major

Williamsport, Pa. — Building on the strength of the Clean Water Institute and their existing biology program, Lycoming College is launching a major in environmental science in time for fall 2024. The new major is expected to attract students interested in the rapidly growing green jobs sector.

The environmental science major will integrate elements of anthropology, biology, business, chemistry, economics, English, history, philosophy, and political science. All of these subjects contribute to an understanding of proposing, creating, and sustaining a healthy environment.

The degree program will also prioritize internships and research experiences to prepare students for the workforce. Projects may include monitoring pollution, helping with restoration and remediation, advocating for environmental policies, and mitigating environmental damage.

“Concerns about the environment are constantly increasing, and we need more scientists to address the issues of environmental preservation and management in light of the climate crisis at our doorstep,” said Jeff Newman, Ph.D., professor of biology and coordinator of the environmental science program at Lycoming College. “Lycoming College is dedicated to educating the world’s next generation of environmental science leaders.”

As early ass freshman year, environmental science students will have the opportunity to work with faculty in the lab and in the field on their research projects, using cutting-edge instruments and methodology. Resources outside of the classroom offered by Lyco include the Lycoming Biology Field Station, the Waterdale Environmental Education Center, and the Montour Preserve Vernal School.

Students also have the option to pursue either a bachelor of arts degree or a bachelor of science degree, depending on the number of math or natural science courses taken.

“Lycoming continuously reevaluates professional areas of interest for the college-bound population, and we are confident that the addition of an environmental science major will tick a lot of boxes for high school seniors looking for their best-fit college,” said Sandra Kingery, Ph.D., interim provost and dean of the faculty at Lycoming College. “The new major will open a lot of career avenues for students interested in the field.”

Lycoming has offered a minor in environmental science for years. The minor program will continue to be available to students.