College students use hammers on rocks during an environmental science trip.

Why environmental science matters:

Understanding the relationship between people and the natural world has never been more important. Environmental science equips you with the tools to investigate urgent challenges — from biodiversity loss to water quality, from climate change to sustainable resource use — and to develop informed, innovative solutions.

How environmental science is taught at Muhlenberg:

At Muhlenberg, you’ll join a community of passionate student scientists and faculty mentors who explore these issues through an interdisciplinary lens. Small classes, close faculty guidance, and abundant fieldwork connect your studies to real-world challenges, preparing you for graduate school or careers in research, policy, education, and industry. Whether your path leads you into advocacy, environmental consulting, or further study in law, medicine, or ecology, you’ll graduate ready to make an impact.

93%
Working or enrolled
Six months after graduation
8:1
Student to Faculty
Classroom ratio
80%
Higher
ROI of a Muhlenberg degree compared with other college degrees across the nation
91%
Retention rate
Most Muhlenberg students return for their second year (compared with 58% national average)
  • 93%
    Working or enrolled
    Six months after graduation
  • 8:1
    Student to Faculty
    Classroom ratio
  • 80%
    Higher
    ROI of a Muhlenberg degree compared with other college degrees across the nation
  • 91%
    Retention rate
    Most Muhlenberg students return for their second year (compared with 58% national average)
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Program Contact Details
Environmental Science at Muhlenberg
484-664-3200

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Program Contact Details
Environmental Science at Muhlenberg
484-664-3200

Curriculum

The environmental science major combines natural and social sciences to provide a strong foundation in ecology, geology, hydrology, and environmental policy. You’ll develop critical analytical, quantitative, and communication skills while exploring topics from biodiversity and climate change to energy and sustainability. The program’s flexibility allows you to tailor your studies toward your specific interests and career goals, and qualified students may pursue the honors program, conducting independent research and presenting their findings to faculty and peers.

Hands-on experience is built into our environmental science program. You’ll take part in extensive fieldwork — hiking into old-growth forests, testing water quality in local streams, exploring coal mines, and touring wastewater treatment plants. Many students secure internships with nonprofits, government agencies, research institutions, and private industry, or study abroad in environmentally rich destinations like Australia, Ecuador, and Costa Rica. These experiences, paired with faculty mentorship, prepare you to translate classroom learning into real-world environmental solutions.

Environmental Science
Environmental Science

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Jason W Kelsey
Professor, Environmental Science
Karen Tuerk
Senior Lecturer, Environmental Science, Program Director in Environmental Science
Environmental Science

Powerful Outcomes

A Muhlenberg education sets you up for success. The liberal arts will hone your ability to think critically, communicate, and problem-solve, skills that are in high demand across all employment sectors. 

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