Bachelor of Environmental Science at The Ohio State University
The Environmental Science at The Ohio State University is a Full Time Bachelor program offered on the Columbus campus in United States of America. The program is delivered on campus in English and can be completed in 4 years. Students develop academic knowledge and practical skills that prepare them for future careers in this field. The next available intake starts on August 24, 2027.
About Bachelor of Environmental Science
Environmental Science
Degree: BS
Campus: Columbus
School: Environment and Natural Resources
Environmental issues, including resource scarcity, climate change and water quality, are at the forefront of world issues today. Environmental scientists investigate and seek out natural solutions to environmental problems. Environmental science at Ohio State is a field-based major focused on understanding pressing local and international environmental problems and training students with the hands-on skills needed to go directly into the workforce and solve these issues.
Get started
Admitted students can directly enroll as majors in environmental science within the School of Environment and Natural Resources. A student’s first year will include several foundational courses in environment and natural resources as well as general education requirements such as mathematics, chemistry, biology, the humanities, etc.
Curriculum
The following foundational courses provide an initial exposure to an array of issues that impact natural resources, focusing on physical and natural sciences as well as the social sciences.
- Introduction to Environmental Science
- Society and Natural Resources
- Introduction to Forestry, Fisheries and Wildlife
- Introduction to Soil Science
Specializations
Students in the Ecosystem Restoration specialization study how ecosystems (both aquatic and terrestrial) function in order to preserve, create and restore them. The curriculum will prepare students to engage in restoration projects ranging from the remediation of polluted ecosystems to the creation of new ecosystems.
The Environmental Molecular Science option is for students who have an interest in both biological and physical sciences and a desire to provide solutions to the world’s environmental challenges. The curriculum provides students with a multidisciplinary education in biochemistry, environmental science, geochemistry, microbiology and molecular biology. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of Earth’s biogeochemical processes and reactions on the scale of a single atom, molecule and cell.
The Soil Resources and Environmental Sustainability specialization offers a highly interdisciplinary curriculum. Soil scientists apply concepts from biology, microbial ecology, chemistry, earth sciences, ecology, hydrology, mineralogy, mathematics and physics to understand, sustain and improve the environment.
The Water Science specialization addresses the fate of ecosystems like wetlands and riparian corridors. Students will take courses in ecology, geology, physics, hydrology, water resources, wetland ecology, civil engineering, aquatic plants, soil chemistry, climatology, limnology and environmental microbiology.
Study abroad
All students are encouraged to gain an international experience with study abroad. Several study tours offer programs focusing on aspects of the environment, natural resources or sustainability in places such as China, Dominican Republic, New Zealand, Australia and Iceland.
Internship
Gaining real world experience through internships is critical to student success. Students gain valuable work experience at a variety of federal, state and private agencies and organizations. By working with SENR Career Services, students can find local, national and international internships related to their career goals.
Honors and Scholars
The Environment and Natural Resources Honors program challenges high-ability students by providing a program in greater breadth and depth and provides special recognition and scholarships for outstanding scholastic achievement. Students are able to design their own study plan that guides their course selection and honors research. Freshmen with University Honors standing may be accepted directly as a candidate for the Environment and Natural Resources Honors program.
Environment and Natural Resources Scholars share an interest and passion for the environment and being outdoors. Students participate in various environmentally based service learning projects, educational trips, and seminars and workshops with leading environmental researchers. The Scholars live together in Morrill Tower.
Learn more at honors-scholars.osu.edu.
Research
Students interested in pursuing research can engage in the generation of new knowledge and understanding alongside world-class faculty and complete requirements to graduate with research distinction.
Students present their research at the college’s Undergrad Research Forum to prepare for the university-wide Denman Undergraduate Research Forum.
Students can also take advantage of research projects monitoring the health of the Lake Erie environment at Stone Lab.
Student organizations
Student organizations, such as TerrAqua and Students for a Sustainable Campus, give students hands-on experiences in the field and help them develop network connections with professionals.
Students have the opportunity to join the SUSTAINS Learning Community, which fosters connections among students who are interested in becoming sustainable leaders. Students will learn how sustainability influences their own and others' lives and how their actions impact society.
Possible careers
The School of Environment and Natural Resources Career Services Office assists students with one-on-one counseling to identify job opportunities, assist in preparing cover letters and resumes, and preparing for interviews. They offer workshops, conduct career fairs and help students along the way to make sure they are building successful resumes.
The intensive background and additional certification components of the environmental science degree make students highly sought after in both the public and private sector. Many of our students pursue advanced degrees. The intensive science background also makes this a good starting point for professional programs such as veterinary medicine, medicine, law and others.
Salary estimates
Average starting salaries for environmental science students is between $51,000 and $67,000 per year. Students with a master’s degree or PhD can expect salaries ranging from $60,000 to $150,000 as environmental scientists and consultants.
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Environmental Science at The Ohio State University
Entry Requirements
Criteria of our holistic review, in no particular order.
Successful completion of university preparatory courses
High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA
Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community
Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement (e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)
Status as a first-generation university student
Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area
High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors
Eligibility for and likelihood of benefiting from organized support services at Ohio State
Enrollment in your intended major
Once it is determined that you are admissible, you will be considered for enrollment in the college of your intended major. Read about
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
English Program Requirements
we require evidence of English language proficiency, unless you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Tuition and Fee Information for Bachelor of Environmental Science at The Ohio State University
How to Apply for Bachelor of Environmental Science at The Ohio State University
How do I submit scores?
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Tips for sending scores to Ohio State
Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.
If you already took the test but didn't send your scores to Ohio State, you can order them for a fee. Order in advance to be sure scores reach us by the application deadline.
We must receive standardized test scores by your application deadline (either November 1 or February 1 for autumn semester applicants).
October 2 (SAT) and October 23 (ACT) are your last 2021 test dates if you want your scores to be considered for our November 1 early action deadline. Important! If you plan to test on those dates, you must request that Ohio State receive scores when you register for the test. And please note: If you choose to have your scores considered, you won’t be able to review scores from these dates prior to submitting your application by the November 1 deadline.
Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.
Is the essay required?
The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.
Should I take a standardized test more than once?
Ohio State looks at the highest composite score from a single test date. Taking the test (and having scores sent to us) more than once, while not required, may work to your advantage.
How does Ohio State look at scores?
When considering students for admission or Honors and Scholars selection, we consider the best official composite / combined score from a single test administration. Ohio State does not mix sub-scores from multiple tests.
These items plus the Common Application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. We must receive all items by the deadline to consider your application on time.
Official transcripts
High school transcripts
Request that your high school or secondary school send transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates for coursework from the final four years (grades 9-12) to Ohio State.
How to send your transcripts to Ohio State:
Your high school counselor can upload the transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates using Common App, Naviance or other secure electronic delivery service.
Your high school counselor can email the transcripts to [email protected].
If electronic submission is not possible, please mail your official transcripts to our express mail address.
Faxed transcripts will not be accepted.
Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, an authorized translator or a teacher of the language. Any additional requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you've applied.
Official ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.How do I submit my scores?
We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent electronically directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.
Optional: Recommendation from a teacher or counselor
While not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common Application.
If an electronic option isn’t available, your counselor may email your letter(s) to
[email protected]; the letter must include your first and last name and OSU ID number, found on the email we send acknowledging receipt of your application. Letters sent via email are subject to sender verification.
Official proof of English language skills
You must request that your testing agency send official scores electronically to Ohio State demonstrating the English proficiency level outlined below:
TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition*): 79 or higher
IELTS or IELTS Indicator*: 6.5 or higher
ACT: 21 or higher on the English section
SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test
Duolingo*: 105 or higher
You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.
*To accommodate applicants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Ohio State University will accept Duolingo, the IELTS Indicator and the TOEFL internet-based test Home Edition from any international student applying for spring 2022 or autumn 2022 admission. All Duolingo test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival to campus. TOEFL Home Edition and IELTS Indicator test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival unless they qualify for a TOEFL or IELTS score exemption.
United States of America, Columbus