Environmental Science

Why study Environmental Science?

Environmental Science students explore relationships between traditional sciences (biology, chemistry, physics and geology) to study human impact on natural systems. Complex issues such as climate change, waste management, resource availability, biodiversity and pollution persist in society, and there is an increasing demand for engineers and managers with a strong foundation in the sciences and well-developed communication skills.
 
Environmental Science majors gain these communication skills, as well as abilities in research and monitoring techniques and insights into research and data interpretation.

 

Environmental Science at Heidelberg

Heidelberg’s multidisciplinary Environmental Science major provides a strong background in the traditional sciences. At the upper level, students select a specialization in Biology, Chemistry, Geology or Water Resources. Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, students choose to conduct an independent research project or to work as an intern.
 
Majors also have the opportunity to interact with research scientists from the on-site National Center for Water Quality Research (NCWQR). The laboratory has a staff of seven full-time researchers involved in chemical, biological and hydrological studies. NCWQR programs center on the collection, analysis and interpretation of environmental data necessary for improved water resource management in the Great Lakes Basin. Much of the NCWQR’s research focuses on assessing the impacts of agricultural land use on water resources and on evaluating the effectiveness of agricultural pollution abatement programs. The laboratory’s research programs are supported by governmental agencies, industries and foundations.
 
In addition, Heidelberg’s Environmental Science students gain valuable preparation for graduate school and employment through the program’s:

  • Emphasis on hands-on learning – in the field and laboratory;
  • One-on-one interaction with faculty members who are actively engaged in environmental research;
  • Real-world training in environmental issues that incorporates official agency methods; and
  • Versatile design that builds knowledge based on previous experience in coursework and the field.

 

Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences 

The programs of the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences are designed to provide a background in the earth and life sciences within the context of a liberal arts education, and to prepare majors for occupational goals and advanced training. Courses serve students in the basic liberal arts program, those who plan to teach in elementary or secondary schools and students who are interested in scientific research. The department offers majors in Biology and Environmental Science and minors in Biology, Environmental Studies and Geology.
 
Facilities
The Department’s courses and seven educational and research laboratories are housed in the newly renovated Bareis Hall and Gillmor Science Hall, which opened in January 2005. In addition, the entire third floor of Gillmor Hall is home to our internationally renowned water quality laboratory, noted above, designated by Congress in 2002 as the National Center for Water Quality Research. The Center employees four full-time Ph.D.-credentialed researchers.
 
Natural Areas
Heidelberg administers four natural areas that total nearly 100 acres and are an average distance of 15 miles from campus. In addition, state-managed river and marsh preserves are within a half-hour’s drive. Heidelberg’s natural areas represent four different types of woodlands. Also readily available to students for field study is Rock Creek, which flows through the main part of campus.
 
Contact Information
Dr. Kenneth Baker
Chair, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences
310 E. Market St.
Tiffin, OH 44883-2462
telephone: (419) 448-2224
email: kbaker