Environmental Science

History and Degree Focus

When the Adirondack Park was created in the 19th century, it was perhaps the most extensive conservation experiment ever undertaken. More than 100 years later, we’re still learning lessons from the waterways, forests and peaks within this 6-million-acre zone – and North Country students are among those doing the work. 

As an Environmental Science major, you’ll learn the environment’s natural processes, as well as the interactions of plants, animals and other organisms with their physical and chemical environments. Our Saranac Lake campus gives you access to the rich ecosystems we’re part of – comprised of fields, forests, wetlands, and a pond that's for of a 40+ year study, so you will be able to visualize both short- and long-term changes. Our second-year courses of General Ecology and Conservation Biology both include labs that allow you to take what you've learned in the classroom and apply it out in the field, all while learning hands-on techniques for real-world data collection. 

 

 

Overview of Environmental Programs

Explore what our Environmental Science program is all about in this feature video

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Shia Bright, an Environmental Science student from Macomb, NY, talks about her experience in the program and at the college.

Environmental Science Student Success Story

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