Environmental and Spatial Sciences Curriculum
See our curriculum guide for the B.S. Environmental and Spatial Sciences degree
B.S. Environmental and Spatial Sciences
The Bachelor of Science program in Environmental and Spatial Sciences prepares students for careers in environmental science and related fields. With advanced training in geospatial technologies (i.e. geographic information science (GIS), global positioning system (GPS) technology, remote sensing, data management, and cartography), recent graduates are well positioned for careers in environmental analysis and mitigation of environmental problems. The program prepares students to assess environmental and human-environment systems, identify and evaluate environmental problems, and design innovative and sustainable solutions.
“In my work as a Staff Scientist at a private environmental consulting firm, I work with a wide range of clients to help them manage compliance surrounding EPA and state regulations for water and NPDES reporting, air quality monitoring and reporting, greenhouse gas reporting, and emissions calculations for emissions points at facilities. I have been able to use my skills learned from MU Geography Department GIS courses here at my job. Every time I work on a project with maps, I think of everything I have learned through the Environmental and Spatial Sciences program. Long story short, it's all been worth it. I am using my degree actively AND consistently at my job to acquire new projects and clients. The B.S. Environmental and Spatial Sciences degree is a total success in terms of what it set out to do, putting transferable skills in our pockets and become more marketable during job searches.”
- Lauren Coca | B.S. Environmental and Spatial Sciences, 2023
Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the B.S. Environmental and Spatial Sciences program will:
- Describe and analyze concepts and theories of the history, structure, function, interactions, and changes in environmental and human-environment systems.
- Describe and analyze concepts and theories of the historical, political, and social context of environmental issues, policies, and institutions.
- Apply appropriate concepts and methodologies to organize, assess, visualize, evaluate, and analyze complex social and environmental processes and problems, interpret relationships and trends, and make predictions about future change.
- Design independent and team-based scientific inquiries to identify, collect, organize, analyze, integrate, and synthesize complex environmental and spatial data and information from multiple sources.
- Design integrative and equitable scientific, technological, and policy solutions to environmental issues with a focus on sustainability.
- Demonstrate proficiency in environmental and geospatial technology and data management.
- Demonstrate proficiency in critical thinking and written and oral communication skills through a range of media and to diverse scientific, policy decision-makers, and general public audiences.
Complete ENSS in Four Years
See our template for completing the B.S. Environmental and Spatial Sciences degree.