This concentration is directed toward the implementation of solutions, balancing policy-oriented approaches to environmental problems, as well as the science behind them. You’ll learn how to develop and evaluate cost-effective policy alternatives, generate public and political support for resource utilization practices that lower humanity's impact on the planet, enact legislation, and devise mechanisms that invite or ensure compliance.
Environmental Science and Policy
School of Science
Leave Your Trace with Environmental Science and Policy
Customize Your Academics to Support Your Career Goals
Whether you’re more interested in the science behind environmental systems or you intend to fight for environmentally conscious policies, Marist’s Environmental Science and Policy major allows you to customize your academic experience to best suit your career goals.
Learn how to detect potential environmental problems using physical, chemical, and biological techniques, how to identify the underlying causes, and how to advance scientifically valid solutions. You’ll be prepared to work for environmental labs, consulting firms, natural resources and regulatory agencies, as well as research organizations, providing the diversity necessary to thoroughly prepare you to pursue your desired career goals.
This smaller environmental degree (46 credits) is designed to be paired easily with Marist’s Masters in Adolescence Education (Grades 7-12). This pairing creates a joint 5-year B.A./Masters program where you become eligible for teaching certification in Earth science education by also completing education-focused coursework and student teaching at the Masters level. This B.A. focuses on outdoor-based, hands-on courses that develop your scientific intellect and effective communication skills through curricular experiences that emphasize project-based learning. Courses put theory into practice through applied, real-world approaches that allow you to grow your skills in analytical and team-based methodologies – competitively preparing you as an environmental professional.
The program offers three possible minors, ranging from 18-29 credits. The Environmental Policy Minor provides a look into the issues, policies, and laws regarding the environment. The Environmental Science Minor provides a foundation in the natural and physical sciences as they pertain to environmental studies. The Environmental Studies Minor combines a balance of both environmental science and policy. These minors are well-suited for students of any major, like business, communication, psychology, etc.
The Hudson River Valley is Your Classroom
Our location on the banks of the Hudson River provides ample opportunity for aquatic research and for use as a field site for class use. The River Lab, run out of the Cornell Boathouse on the Marist riverfront, has a flow-through system which allows students to extract water and river wildlife to test for research experiments. Marist is only thirty minutes from the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, where our students can intern with two dozen scientists on cutting-edge ecological research.
Apply Theory to Practice with Real-World Internships
Engaging in hands-on learning both inside and outside of the classroom is a staple of the Marist educational experience, and the Environmental Science and Policy program takes that to the next level. You’ll be encouraged to gain real-world acumen by completing internships at locations that match your future goals. Below are only a handful of locations at which Environmental Science and Policy students have completed internships.


The Value of a Marist Education
At Marist, we pride ourselves on our dedication to providing our students with a well-rounded liberal arts education that prepares them for practical experience and profound success in their field. But don't just take our word for it - the numbers speak for themselves.