Environmental Studies majors analyze complex environmental issues from the classroom, the laboratory, and most importantly… the field! From the US Capital in DC to the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center to the shores Assateague Island to the forests of the Appalachian Mountains, ES majors are there.
You’ll gain field experience in locations such as:
- Mines in coal country and agricultural farms in Pennsylvania
- Forests of the world-famous Gettysburg National Military Park and the Appalachian Mountains
- Beaches of North Carolina’s Outer Banks
- Decision-making centers of Washington D.C.
- Headquarters of national news agencies
- Renowned film festivals
- Summer offers you a departmental field course on the Rocky Mountain West, as well as regional, national, and international internships and research opportunities.
Events
Featured courses
Jump to level: All Environmental Studies courses
Students pursuing environmental studies at Gettysburg College can build on their critical thinking and analytical skills gained through their coursework on campus and in professional environments. From participating in X-Sig, Kolbe Fellowships, and Digital Humanities Fellowships to engaging in publishable environmental justice, sustainable development, natural sciences, and public lands policy research, students can explore various curricular research passions. These enriching experiences prepare students to confront society’s most pressing questions across multiple disciplines.
Undergraduate research
Environmental studies students work collaboratively with peers and faculty on research projects that may lead to publication or professional conference presentations. Additionally, students interested in studying abroad may do so in the fall or spring, where they may apply their courses abroad toward their environmental studies major.
The Cross-Disciplinary Science Institute at Gettysburg college (X-SIG) is a cornerstone summer experience that provides participating students the opportunity to work alongside faculty to do research and fieldwork. The 8-week summer Kolbe Research Fellowship at Gettysburg College is designed to support mentored undergraduate research. Musselman Library also invites undergraduate students from all majors to apply for a paid, residential summer Digital Humanities Fellowship.
Student life opportunities
As a charter signatory of the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC), Gettysburg’s environmental studies department partners with an array of co-curricular opportunities to focus on the environment and our place in it:
- The Gettysburg Environmental Concerns Organization (G.E.C.O.)
- The Farmhouse, a residence shared by students committed to social justice and sustainability
- Campus Kitchens, a student-initiated program to reduce food waste
- The Painted Turtle Farm, administered by the Center for Public Service as a community outreach program
- Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Belonging (DIEB) Student Advisory Board
- Student Senate, Sustainability Committee
- Eisenhower Institute Environmental Leadership program