Academics




Academics

Environmental Studies and Education

 

The Environmental Studies and Education major is shared by the Division of Arts and Sciences and the Division of Education and Human Services, an academic partnership which highlights the program's focus on the University's Mission and the importance of collaboration and shared vision. Students enrolled in this major examine the human species' place in ecological interrelationships and, upon receipt of a Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Studies and Education, are prepared to educate others about environmental stewardship.

By understanding the individual's role in environmental issues, students are challenged to apply their acquired knowledge in numerous service-learning experiences which foster their development as environmental stewards. These service-learning experiences operate in a wide range of contexts (i.e., basic schooling, informal education institutions like nature centers and museums, environmental agencies, and grassroots action groups) and allow Neumann students to impact on people of diverse ages, races, and socioeconomic status.

The Environmental Studies and Education major at Neumann University is truly interdisciplinary - The core premise of ecology is basic to the program and reflects the interrelationships between and among organisms and their environment. Since the human species is a part of these ecological systems, this program accounts for such environmental issues as the effects of human activity on a limited environment and the evolutionary consequences of those activities. As such, the Environmental Studies and Education major requires the integration of political, social, economic, ethical, and educational ideas within the context of ecology.

There are two tracks within the Environmental Studies and Education major. For the first two years of either track, the arts and sciences are emphasized as a strong basis for professional development. Both tracks also focus on the importance of educating others as a means of gaining a solid understanding of environmental issues and developing an environmental ethic which leads to stewardship.

Students can choose the Environmental Studies track which prepares them to work in a variety of grassroots organizations that redress and educate others about environmental issues. There are sufficient elective credits available within this track to allow for the inclusion of an academic minor which supports one's professional goals of pursuing a career dealing with environmental issues. Students are required to apply their knowledge of environmental studies in an off-campus setting though the University's Cooperative Education Program as well as various service-learning experiences.

Students can also choose from two options within the Environmental Education Certification track. The first option provides Pennsylvania Teaching Certification in Environmental Education (K-12), while the other provides for Environmental Education Certification (K-12) in addition to Elementary Education Certification (K-6). Students pursuing either one of these options are trained in methodologies that are appropriate to helping children and adults understand ecological interrelationships and environmental stewardship. Within the Environmental Education curriculum, early field experiences and a practicum in teaching children and adults in either fonnal or informal educational settings are required.

 

For additional program information, please click here.

For additional information, please call the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid, which coordinates the admission of all students, at (610) 558-5616 or (800) 9-NEUMANN or feel free to e-mail us at neumann@neumann.edu.




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