Environmental Science Program
Environmental Science Chemistry Degree
Dive into the science behind clean water, fresh air and a healthier planet.
OFFERED AS:
Major
CREDITS REQUIRED:
120
FORMAT:
In-Person
Ever wonder what's really in your air, water or soil? Become the scientist who understands how chemicals shape our environment and how you can reduce harm.
The Chemistry track within our Environmental Science program teaches you about natural ecosystems from a molecular perspective. As an environmental science chemistry major, you’ll develop the laboratory and data analysis skills that you will need to help ensure the safety of our most vital resources.
So, are you ready to make KU your home away from home and learn from some of the best environmental science professors in PA?
Why choose KU for an Environmental Chemistry Degree
Our environmental chemistry degree isn't just about protecting natural ecosystems—it's understanding how pollution works on a molecular level and gaining the lab, research and critical thinking skills needed to do something about it.
But students don’t just choose KU because they care about a clean environment, they come to:
- Receive high-quality education at an affordable cost.
- Relax on KU’s beautiful campus, your home away from home.
- Build strong connections with faculty and other students.
- Participate in hands-on field training and laboratory experience.
Environmental Chemistry Degree Highlights
From studying pollutants in our environment to gaining skills on a wide array of laboratory instrumentation, our environmental chemistry major will transform your passion for science into an impactful career.
Program Highlights:
- Learn how natural chemical reactions and interactions occur in air, water, and soil.
- Investigate how human activities, such as agriculture, waste disposal and industrial processes, impact the environment.
- Analyze and monitor pollutants in the environment and laboratory.
- Study the health and chemistry of local water sources.
- Learn about the intersection between chemistry and other fields like biology and geology.
- Explore ways to mitigate pollution, restore degraded ecosystems and promote sustainable practices.
Student Learning Outcomes
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Environmental Science (BS)
- Students completing the B.S. in Environmental Science degree will be able to execute field and laboratory investigations based on sound scientific principals and techniques, with care and attention to detail.
- Students completing the B.S. in Environmental Science degree will be able to effectively communicate a position using data and logical reasoning in appropriate written and oral formats.
- Students completing the B.S. in Environmental Science degree will be able to work as an integral member of a multidisciplinary team to apply knowledge of the complex interactions between physical and biological realms, draw conclusions, and develop action plans.
- Students upon completing the B.S. in Environmental Science degree will be able to choose appropriate techniques for the collection, analysis, and presentation of quantitative, spatial, and temporal data.
“…Kutztown will change their lives. It will challenge you, frustrate you, and you may even want to quit at times. However, you learn so much through your time here. You grow as a person as you face these challenges. You become confident in your abilities as you work through frustration. Also, as you persevere and never give up, you set yourself up for your future. Kutztown provides the opportunity to mold and form you into the individual you want to become, but you have to be willing to accept the challenge.”
Alexa Karlowicz ‘24|
Top Internship Locations for KU Students |
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Rodale Institute |
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Suburban Testing Labs |
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The Army Corps of Engineers |
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The National Park Service |
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Giorgi Foods |
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Natural Lands |
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Lehigh Country Conservation District |
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Hidden Creek Farm |
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Top Job Placements for KU Graduates |
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) |
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OSHA |
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U.S. Department of Agriculture |
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Lancaster County Conservation District |
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PA Department of Conservation & Natural Resources |
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Eurofins Scientific |
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Crop Management Strategies |
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Longwood Gardens |
Environmental Chemistry FAQ
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What can I do with an environmental chemistry degree?
Earning an environmental science degree focused in chemistry can lead to many career paths. Here are a few career options along with their national salaries from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023):
- Hazardous Materials Removal Worker: $47,280
- Environmental Science and Protection Technician: $50,660
- Chemist: $84,680
- Environmental Scientist: $80,060
- Chemical Technician: $56,750
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What field-related experience can I get as an environmental chemistry major?
We encourage our students within the environmental chemistry track to explore their interests beyond campus, such as participating in internships, scientific research or both. You can read more about our research and internship opportunities here.
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What environmental chemistry courses can I take at KU?
As an environmental chemistry major, you will explore the multiple subdisciplines of chemistry along with general environmental science courses that will provide you with a balanced, flexible skillset.
Refer to this checksheet for more details:
https://app.kutztown.edu/checksheets/checksheet/ULASENVCH-2202