BA or BS in environmental science
Choose Rowan University’s BA or BS in environmental science degree program and study how to tackle today’s most pressing environmental challenges.
Why choose Rowan’s environmental science program?
Environmental science is one of the most urgent and fast-moving fields today, and Rowan University’s Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) in environmental science degree programs place you at the center of it.
You’ll study biology, chemistry, physics and earth science alongside courses focused on climate, ecosystems and environmental policy, learning how you can apply scientific inquiry directly to the issues communities face.
As a graduate of either program, you’ll enter a field where the work truly matters. Environmental scientists document the effects of climate change, design strategies to reduce pollution, collaborate on solutions that protect natural systems and human health and more. At Rowan, you’ll gain field experience in local ecosystems, work alongside faculty on research and receive unique, real-world opportunities that prepare you to lead in conservation, policy, sustainability or research.
Key considerations
Quick Facts
Months To Complete
Credits
Application deadlines
Fall Entry Term
Spring Entry Term
Summer Entry Term
Studying environmental science at Rowan
What you'll learn
To complete Rowan’s BA or BS in environmental science degree programs, you’ll complete 120 credits that blend core science courses with specialized study in environmental topics. You’ll build a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, geology, physics and mathematics, while also taking courses in environmental ethics, research methods and climate science. From studying the global climate crisis to exploring soil science, ecology and ocean systems, both programs ensure you graduate with a wide-ranging understanding of the world’s environmental challenges.
The bachelor’s degree path you choose depends on your interests and career goals. Review the key differences between the BA and BS in environmental science programs:
- BA in Environmental Science: Offers more flexibility, making it a better fit if you’d like to combine your degree in environmental studies with a major in areas like public policy, education or communication.
- BS in Environmental Science: Emphasizes advanced research and technical training with courses such as organic chemistry and data analysis that prepare you for scientific or industry-focused careers.
Both degree programs give you opportunities to pursue electives in topics such as renewable energy, stream ecology, radioactivity in the environment and environmental consulting. These courses allow you to tailor your studies to your interests and gain the depth of knowledge needed for graduate school or your future career.
BA in environmental science key courses
- Contaminants in the Environment
- Environmental Ethics
- Environmental Science Research Methods and Data Analysis
- Environment in the Headlines
- Global Climate Crisis
- Human Nature: Intro to Environmental and Sustainability Studies
Note: The course information above is not official and is subject to change. For an official list of available courses.
BS in environmental science key courses
- Environmental Ethics
- Environment in the Headlines
- Human Nature: Intro to Environmental and Sustainability Studies
- Introduction to Cell Biology
- Introduction to Ecology
- Introduction to Genetics
- Organic Chemistry I
- The Environmental Experience
Note: The course information above is not official and is subject to change. For an official list of available courses, please review the Rowan University Academic Catalog.
How you'll learn
At Rowan, the environmental science program comes alive through hands-on experiences that take you beyond the classroom. You might collect samples in South Jersey’s wetlands, analyze data with advanced lab technology or contribute to faculty-led projects that explore urgent environmental questions. Field trips and community partnerships let you see how ecosystems function and how science can inform solutions, while internships and research opportunities often lead to presentations at conferences, publications or even job offers.
You’ll also choose a culminating experience at the end of the program—whether that’s solving a real problem through project-based learning, engaging deeply with scholarly literature in the Senior Seminar or presenting your findings through the Research Capstone. These opportunities allow you to practice science as it’s done in the field before you graduate.
Environmental science BS/MS 4+1 program
Admission requirements
To apply to Rowan University’s BA or BS in environmental science degree programs, submit the following application materials.
- First-year application through one of three platforms:
- Application fee of $65
- Official high school transcript(s)
- Letter(s) of recommendation/teacher evaluations
- Personal essay
Once you complete your application, a representative from Rowan’s Office of Admissions will confirm your application status and notify you of any missing information. There may be additional actions or materials required for admission to the program.
Note: Rowan University is test-optional. You may submit your SAT or ACT scores, but you won’t be penalized if you choose not to.
Need assistance with your application? Our Office of Admissions team is here to support you—email admissions@rowan.edu to reach out.
Tuition and aid
Rowan’s environmental science degree programs provide cost-effective paths into a growing career field. Additionally, scholarships, grants and other financial aid resources are available to help offset costs.
Learn more about tuition and financial aid designed to support you.
I have always been into the environment — green everything, conservation biology, animal extinction and the reasons why they're going extinct.
Sarah S. Union County, NJ
My 'aha' moment was when I sat in my first course of the semester. I realized that there are so many other students who share a similar passion to mine.
Joshua M. Essex County, NJ
Careers and outcomes
Upcoming virtual information sessions and events
Taking a multi-disciplinary approach to environmental science
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