Andrea Bixler, Ph.D.
Professor of Biology
My courses are challenging – what’s the point of just memorizing the text? Instead, let’s take the information, analyze it, and apply it in new situations.
Environmental Studies
Minor
The way we use the Earth’s resources affects our quality of life – both short-term and long-term. As the population of the Earth grows, it is more important than ever that we be good stewards of the environment. Clarke’s Environmental Studies minor focuses on using the tools of the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities to solve problems in resource depletion and environmental degradation, which in turn affect human welfare. Students studying in our environmental studies minor at Clarke choose from a variety of courses in biology, sociology, ethics, economics, and other areas. This preparation, in conjunction with their major degree, opens doors to sustainability-related careers. If you’ve ever asked yourself, what types of Environmental Studies programs near me are available, you should first check out our campus visits and virtual visits in Dubuque, Iowa. You can see for yourself that Clarke is one of the best universities for environmental studies in the Midwest.
Real-World Experience
In our Environmental Studies minor, you will complete a 12-credit internship which constitutes most of your work during your junior year. The internship will involve working with faculty and a supervisor at a local business, nonprofit, or government agency to solve an important issue related to sustainability. Clarke faculty collaborate with members of the community to facilitate your internship opportunities.
How about a Career?
Opportunities available for environmental studies graduates:
- Wildlife biologist
- Grassroots organizer
- Sustainability coordinator for government or business
- Soil conservation specialist
- Writer/blogger
- Air/water quality chemist
- Park ranger
- Infrastructure designer
- Environmental lawyer
- Classroom teacher or informal educator
Program Details
A minor in Environmental Studies draws expertise from biology, sociology, economics, chemistry, and religious studies as an integrated, interdisciplinary program. Learn about subjects such as conservation of biodiversity, resource management, sustainability, environmental justice, and the triple bottom line. Various courses, including Introduction to Environmental Studies, Environmental Biology, and Environment and Society, include service-learning or other community-based experiences that help prepare students for future careers. Your learning will be hands-on and visual. You will see and do, not just listen, in your environmental science courses at Clarke.
Facilities
Many of the classes for an environmental studies minor take place in Clarke’s science building, the Marie Miske Center for Science Inquiry, which fosters collaborative, hands-on learning, in flexible, modern spaces. The fully-automated greenhouse provides additional research and learning opportunities.
Classes that make an impact
Here is a sampling of the types of classes you’ll explore with a minor in Environmental Studies:
- INTRO TO ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES — This course uses natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities to examine problems in resource depletion, and environmental degradation.
- SOCIAL ISSUES — This class explores how our social behaviors and beliefs affect and are affected by the natural world.
- APPLIED ETHICS: ENVIRONMENT — Environmental Ethics includes a trip to Costa Rica to study how that country values and protects its environment.
Admission to Clarke University
The Power of Liberal Arts
The ability to write well, speak well, and problem solve are some of the top skills employers seek when hiring new graduates. Leaders need to know how to create, collaborate, innovate, and inspire. A liberal arts education and minor in environmental science coursework prepares you to do just that, forming those critical skills that separate leaders from followers. And, because a liberal arts education translates to many different careers, you also have the option of easily jumping into a new job if you’re ready to try something different.
Apply today!
Applicants to the environmental studies minor are considered on an individual basis. Apply to Clarke today to begin your journey.
Program in Pictures
Environmental Studies degree students from Clarke University
Melissa DeMotta, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Biology
I hope that students learn to appreciate the world around them and the wonder of their own bodies so that they realize science is not scary but fantastic.
Michelle Slover, Ph.D.
Chair and Professor of Biology
The integration of lab and lecture in my anatomy courses works well. The two components complement each other and provide multiple ways to learn.
There’s more to college than going to class.
The Classroom and Beyond
Study Abroad
Clarke University offers several faculty-sponsored study abroad experiences to destinations such as Spain, Scotland, Ireland, and Japan. Study abroad trips encourage you to experience different cultures, broaden your mind, and discover your own passions.
Internships
Internships involve groups of students working with faculty and a supervisor at a local business, nonprofit, or government agency to solve some issue related to sustainability.
Careers in Environmental Studies
What can I do with experience in Environmental Studies?
Facilities & Equipment
Clarke’s 46,000-square-foot, three-story science building provides flexible and modern spaces designed to seamlessly integrate lecture and lab areas while fostering a collaborative, hands-on learning environment.
The Clarke Compass
Through your Clarke experience, you will be involved in many different activities that will guide you on your college journey. By your senior year, you will have a résumé of all your awesome involvements packaged and ready for your first interview.
Clubs & Organizations
Life at Clarke is living traditions, being proud, participating in the campus community, and being an active member of our greater community.
But don’t take our word for it…
Our Students & Alumni
Courtney Traser
Biology ‘13
Dr. Slover’s passion for what she taught was evident and infectious, and my experiences with her and her encouragement motivated me so much.
Ellie Northrop
Biology and Math ‘17
I want to do and experience everything. Being at a small school like Clarke helps you find your niche. Turns out I have many niches – sports, music, and academics. Clarke makes it possible for me to do everything.
$69,400
Salary
The median annual wage for environmental scientists and specialists was $71,360 in 2019, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Facts
The most common reason for CEOs to pursue sustainability is that it matches their companies’ mission and values, according to the 2014 McKinsey Global Survey.
1:1
Work one-on-one with Ph.D.-level faculty.
Other Programs to Explore
Experience Clarke Environmental Studies for Yourself