Academics: Programs of Study: Undergraduate Degree Programs
Environmental Resource Science
- Degree: Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences - BSES
- UGA Bulletin: Major Requirements
- Campus: Griffin
- UGA Career Center: Career Choices
Description
This major is intended to fill the increasing niche of careers in urban agriculture that require students to have:
- a strong foundation in both the basic and applied sciences,
- an understanding of the interconnectedness of the sciences, and
- practical work experiences in urban environmental and agricultural arenas.
Graduates from the Griffin program will gain practical knowledge and problem-solving skills that will enable them to compete for career opportunities in government, environmental consulting firms, environmental research laboratories, and environmental horticulture production and management positions.
This degree program compliments the mission of the Griffin Campus and the curriculum reflects the expertise and strengths of faculty that are in residence. The Griffin Campus is headquarters for the CAES Georgia Center for Urban Agriculture. The focus of the Center’s faculty is to bring together the science, education, and policy information that the leaders in industries and governments need for making informed decisions on urban agricultural and environmental issues.
Career Opportunities
According to the Georgia Department of Labor, Workforce Information and Analysis Division, the demand for educated workers in careers related to urban agriculture is expected to increase between 30-50% by 2010. Specifically, jobs for Environmental Scientists and Specialists are expected to increase 39% by 2010. The median annual income in Georgia for Environmental Scientists and Specialists was $45,200 in 2002. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, median annual earnings of environmental scientists were $47,600. These careers typically require a Bachelors degree. A bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences offers an interdisciplinary approach to natural sciences. About 47 percent of environmental scientists were employed in State and local governments, 14 percent in architectural, engineering, and related services, 13 percent in management scientific and technical consulting services, and 9 percent in the Federal Government.