• Environmental Studies, A.A.S.
  
• Overview

The significant concern in society about environmental quality has generated a need for technically-trained environmental specialists and natural resource managers. An Associates in Applied Science Degree in Environmental Studies at SUNY Cobleskill prepares students for beginning an exciting career in environmental protection in the public or private sectors. The study of soil erosion, water pollution, natural resources protection, ecology, and the world of plants, with a strong foundation in the natural sciences provides a diverse program which prepares students for job entry or transfer to Bachelor Degree programs.

Excellent Facilities and Learning Experience
The Environmental Studies program involves significant learning experiences through laboratory activities, exciting field trips and interaction with natural resource and environmental professionals. Excellent laboratory facilities are utilized for extensive hands-on learning in chemistry, biology, botany, soil science, water resources, geology, ecology and computer applications. Extensive college land provides numerous opportunities for investigating forests, cropland and stream system environments, all within a short walking distance of the Plant Science classrooms and laboratories.

Students in the Environmental Studies program are provided the opportunity to visit various places of ecological significance through field trips in many courses. A hike up a mountain trail or a walk on a bog in the vast Adirondack Park; a visit to a globally rare ecosystem in Albany; a tour of a modern water treatment plant; and a tour of one of the largest caverns in the eastern United States, all provide excellent field experiences. In addition, the trips usually involve presentations and tours by expert natural resource professionals including New York State Department of Environmental Conservation officers, soil conservation technicians, reservoir and watershed management specialists, water treatment plant operators, state foresters and ecologists.

Knowledgeable and Dedicated Faculty
Students in the Environmental Studies program are taught by faculty who are very knowledgeable in their areas of specialization. The faculty in the Plant Science Department are very helpful in providing individualized advisement on course selection, transfer opportunities and potential careers. Faculty place a high priority on maintaining professional contacts in government and industry. Faculty in allied fields consistently integrate environmental application into course material in chemistry, mathematics, biology and geology.