UNF is proud to unveil new Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science degree

The University of North Florida is proud to unveil a new Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science degree.

The Environmental Science B.S., the first fully interdisciplinary degree that incorporates involvement from all six UNF colleges, was designed by a team of interdisciplinary faculty from the Institute of Environmental Research and Education (IERE) Faculty Board and the IERE Community Council, comprised of environmental community and industry leaders in Northeast Florida.

"As the IERE prepares to celebrate its 20thyear of providing environmental research and education to the UNF community, we are proud to offer the new degree in environmental science, created after years of dedicated work to expand programming," said Dr. Erin Largo-Wight, director of the IERE.

The new program is designed to place students in jobs or graduate programs around the state and will be delivered primarily through face-to-face instruction with a strong emphasis on community-based learning in Jacksonville and local issues specific to the region.

Like the current minor in environmental studies, the degree will be housed in the IERE to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, capitalize on IERE Faculty Board expertise, connect with IERE Community Council and employers as well as maximize flexibility and efficiency.

The Environmental Science B.S. degree has two concentrations. The environmental natural sciences concentration offers education in natural and applied sciences, preparing students for scientific fieldwork and laboratory work. The environmental principles and practice concentration focuses on environmental studies including the political, economic, social, behavioral and ethical aspects of environmental issues to help prepare students for environmental resilience management and leadership.

The degree will utilize existing courses from UNF's six colleges and new courses offered by IERE. New courses will be taught by IERE joint faculty and focus on coastal resilience, community engagement and professional development.

Applications are open for the initial spring 2025 cohort. Learn more by visiting the Environmental Science Degree webpage.