Taking care of the earth so it takes care of us

Major: Environmental Science
Minors: Environmental Science

“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.”

Robert Swan

The environmental science program at Lycoming College is an interdisciplinary course of study with a curriculum based in the natural sciences that integrates elements of anthropology, business, economics, English, history, philosophy and political science, to understand and address challenges to creating and sustaining a healthy environment. Coursework prepares students for internships and careers that solve problems, such as monitoring pollution, assisting in restoration and remediation projects, advocating for environmentally-sound policies, and working to reduce the negative impact that industry may have on the environment. Students could find themselves working with businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, or research- and conservation-oriented non-profit organizations. Beginning freshman year, students are given the opportunity to work in the lab and in the field on research projects that provide valuable experiences using cutting-edge scientific instrumentation and methodology. The interdisciplinary nature of the environmental science major gives students the option of pursuing either a bachelor of arts degree or a bachelor of science degree.

Student Opportunities

  • Work closely with faculty on independent research projects and publications.
  • Experience learning outside of the classroom, such as at the Lycoming Biology Field Station, the Waterdale Environmental Education Center, and the Montour Preserve Vernal School.
  • Monitor water quality of local streams, learn about contemporary conservation issues, and engage in long-term aquatic ecology research projects through our own Clean Water Institute.
  • Enhance a resume or graduate school application by gaining experiences as a course tutor, teaching assistant, or study group facilitator.
  • Master state-of-the-art laboratory instrumentation and technology.

Why Lycoming?

  1. Courses are taught by faculty with doctoral degrees who provide in-depth knowledge, close mentorship, and individualized advising.
  2. Small class sizes allow for in-depth discussion and applied learning opportunities to advance students’ critical thinking skills.
  3. The campus is within close proximity to abundant natural resources, such as the Susquehanna River West Branch and tributaries, Rose Valley Lake, Robert Porter Allen Natural Area, the Waterdale Environmental Education Center, and the Lycoming Biology Field Station, located just a few miles from campus in Northcentral Pennsylvania.
  4. Williamsport and Lycoming County are part of the PA Wilds, and an easy drive to the Pine Creek Rail Trail, the PA Grand Canyon, Ricketts Glen and Worlds End State Park.
  5. Students can supplement their studies by getting involved in student organizations, such as the Lycoming Environmental Awareness Foundation (LEAF) and participate in Outdoor Leadership Education (OLE) programming.
  6. Students can benefit from existing relationships with conservation and research associations such as Robert Porter Allen Natural Area, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, Pennsylvania Game Commission, Lycoming County Audubon Society, the Salvation Army Community Garden, Misty Mountain Farm, the Susquehanna Heartland Coalition for Environmental Studies, the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper, the Montour Preserve Vernal School, Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy, Lycoming County Conservation District, Williamsport Municipal Water Authority, and Rider Park.

Sustainability at Lycoming