University of Minnesota, Crookston
AC-3: Undergraduate Program

The scope of environmental sciences encompasses a broad spectrum of fields from human health to global economy. It is an interdisciplinary science incorporating an understanding of biology, chemistry, earth sciences, water resources, and economics which allows students in environmental science to explore such questions as "where chemicals released in the environment go?" and "what impact they have?" The BS in environmental sciences is designed to provide students with the scientific background and practical skills needed to successfully address environmental issues and the background required to be successful applicants to graduate programs. Students may choose from advanced courses designed to emphasize studies in biological remediation technologies, water quality, or agriculture while participating in a common core of courses which provide knowledge in the basic principles relevant to all areas.

Managing natural resources is increasingly important, with increasing human populations and limited natural resources and habitats. Natural resource managers help balance the needs of people with the ability of ecosystems to sustainably support soil, water, forests, wildlife, fish, and recreational resources.

UMC's bachelor of science in natural resources provides an integrated approach to soil and water conservation, wildlife and fisheries management, forestry, and recreation. This combination enables graduates to work with a variety of resources and people and to build a career tailored to their interests. Students select one of the following emphases:

• Ecological restoration
• Natural resources law enforcement
• Natural resources management
• Park management
• Water resource management
• Wildlife management

Program outcomes:
• Apply an integrated approach to resource management that incorporates environmental, economic, and social considerations
• Demonstrate appropriate technical knowledge and practical applications necessary for employment in the natural resources field
• Perform group problem solving, decision-making, and conflict management to be effective in resource management
• Demonstrate oral and written communication skills appropriate for a beginning natural resource professional
• Be aware of the necessity of continuing education and professional development to be successful in a changing natural resources workplace

The BS in horticulture is a career-oriented program that combines science-based education, liberal arts education, and technical training. All horticulture students are introduced to botany, woody plants, entomology, plant pathology, and soil science as part of the program requirements. These courses together with liberal arts courses and program specific courses prepare students for careers in the green industry. Students select from three areas of emphasis: environmental landscaping, horticulture production, or urban forestry.

Program outcomes for graduates:
• Demonstrate competency in identification of plant species, diseases, pests, and disorders of horticultural plants
• Understand the use of horticultural plants for aesthetic improvement and sustainability of the environment
• Apply principles of plant science, nutrition, soils, and pest management, and exhibit an awareness of environmental health and safety issues
• Demonstrate an awareness of the need for continuing professional development
• Demonstrate communication skills, ability to make sound decisions, and willingness to work as part of a team in providing leadership and accountability
• Use computer technology to effectively communicate, manage, and enhance business operations

The minor in sustainability is designed to provide students with a fundamental understanding of the three pillars of sustainability-economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social progress-allowing graduates to fully understand, articulate, and implement sustainable practices that will help our society face sustainability-related challenges.

The environmental sciences minor introduces students to the core concepts of environmental sciences. Students will gain an overall understanding of environmental sciences and its importance in today's society. This minor meshes well with major courses of study in biology, agronomy, horticulture, animal science, and natural resources giving these students a feel for how their disciplines interact with environmental sciences. It also helps develop critical thinking skills in applying science-based decision making as it pertains to the environment.

Soil is the reservoir on which most life on earth depends, as the primary source of food, feed, fuel, forage, fiber, and pharmaceuticals. Soil plays a vital role in sustaining human welfare and assuring future agricultural productivity and environmental stability. A minor in soils will provide students within related fields of study such as Agronomy, Horticulture, Natural Resources, Turf Management, Biology, and Environmental Science with a foundation of the physical, chemical, and biological soil properties and processes essential to such a complex ecosystem.