Undergraduate Programs


The University of Toledo in Ohio is one of the region’s first universities to offer an Environmental Sciences bachelor’s degree. The program is designed for students who want to solve environmental problems through science and data.

The Toledo area is a perfect place to study the environment. Its diverse ecosystems — wetlands, savannahs, woodlands —  combined with its location near Lake Erie and a large human population make for an ideal natural laboratory.

Students study everything from air, water and soil pollution to climate change and animal, plant and ecosystem preservation. UToledo undergraduates work in the field to gain scientific skills. They also are required to take social science, humanities and other liberal arts courses to bring a human dimension to their science degrees.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES CONCENTRATIONS

UToledo Environmental Sciences undergraduates choose a concentration in:

  • Astronomy
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Ecology
  • Geology
  • Mathematics
  • Physics
  • Public Health

Top Reasons to Study Environmental Sciences at UToledo

  1. Innovative programming.
    New programs and resources include:
    • Minors in sustainability and renewable energy.
    • A concentration in public health.
    • The addition of drones to an already-robust fleet of boats, trucks and vans for field research.
    • An active-learning courtyard with sun, shade, rain and rock gardens. It was designed and constructed by environmental sciences students.
  2. Experiential learning.
    • Collaboration with faculty on projects and research. Students have worked on urban gardens, controlling invasive species, habitat remediation and more.
    • Field studies in the Toledo area. Toledo has unique, diverse, natural habitats and landforms, as well as agricultural, urban and natural ecosystems that make it a rich laboratory for environmental sciences majors.
    • Field experiences throughout the United States, Canada, Trinidad, the Bahamas and Costa Rica.
    • Teaching and research in plant ecology and physiology in our on-campus greenhouse and our nearby, 47-acre arboretum.
    • A required, 100-hour internship.
  3. The Lake Erie Center.
    UToledo is just 15 miles from western Lake Erie, a rich, unconventional laboratory for environmental research. This state-of-the-art research facility offers UToledo students a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn and study. The facility has classrooms, research vessels specially equipped for work right on the lake and labs with the latest technology. UToledo faculty and students study harmful algal blooms, water quality and more.
  4. A well-rounded environmental education.
    Jobs in the environmental field are growing faster than the national average. Employers look for candidates with broad understanding of the environment and what affects it. At UToledo, students study science but also are required to take liberal arts courses and classes in environmental economics, geography, political science and philosophy.
  5. Expert faculty.
    • Edit international, scientific journals and bring the latest science discoveries to the classroom and lab.
    • Receive $2 to $3 million annually in grants to support graduate and undergraduate research.
    • Co-author more than 70 publications with student researchers each year.
  6. Outstanding labs and facilities.
    Students study on campus and off campus at:

Meet Anthony Tomalewski

'23, Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences

"I chose my major as Environmental Science because I knew that the climate crisis was worsening, and I wanted to be part of the solution. But then the pandemic hit, and it turned our world upside down. However, the professors in our department never faltered in giving me their best."

Read More

What jobs can I get with an environmental sciences degree?

A bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sciences from The University of Toledo will give you the scientific, critical thinking and communication skills you need for a successful career. Jobs in the field are growing faster than the national average.

Who employs Environmental Sciences graduates?

  • Environmental consulting firms
  • Federal and state regulatory agencies
  • Nonprofit and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
  • State, county and city parks
  • State natural resource agencies
  • Universities and secondary schools
  • Wildlife ranges and zoological parks

Hands-On Learning Opportunities

At UToledo, we take you beyond the textbooks and the four walls of a classroom. These real-world experiences are what help our graduates gain professional skills and land jobs.

Internships

Finding an internship is easy thanks to UToledo’s robust community partnerships with companies and organizations around the region. Dive into unique opportunities that prepare you to launch your career.

Internships help you:

  • Gain practical experience
  • Build your resume
  • Refine your skills
  • Cultivate contacts

Internships often lead to full-time jobs after graduation!

Career Services can help you track down job opportunities. You also might be able to receive academic credit for your internship or job.

Research

UToledo is known for its undergraduate research opportunities. Start as early as your freshman year. Work with faculty who enjoy collaborating with students.

Study Abroad

The University of Toledo environmental sciences program has an exchange program with the University of Salford and the University of Hertfordshire in England. Hertfordshire is one of just 12 environmental science programs in the United Kingdom to receive an “excellent” rating by its accrediting agency.

UToledo's Education Abroad Office can help you find the perfect opportunity. You can apply for grants, scholarships and financial aid to help fund study abroad.

Rocket Kids Semester

The Rocket Kids program offers University students a fall, spring or summer semester internship providing recreational programming to U.S. military youth while experiencing the world in locations such as Germany, Italy, Belgium and The Netherlands.

Rocket Kids interns will gain practical experience in programming, leadership, health and wellness, creative arts, performing arts, cultural and literary arts, team and individual sports, adventure and outdoor recreation and STEM education.

Learn more

On-campus and Part-time Jobs

  • Learn skills that prepare you for a career after graduation.
  • Build your resume.
  • Earn money.

If you want to work, there are plenty of opportunities on campus and at businesses near campus. If you demonstrate financial need, you may qualify for the federal work-study program.

Student Organizations

Our most successful students get involved.

UToledo has 400+ student organizations that will help you:

  • Make friends.
  • Build your resume.
  • Network.
  • Be a leader.
  • Serve your community.
  • Have fun!

Tuition and Scholarships

Most new students don't pay full price. 94% of new UToledo students receive scholarships or other state and federal aid.

Keep in mind: Your cost will vary by college, program and a host of other options. This is the average amount full-time students pay per year.

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Tuition and Fees

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Room and Meal Plan


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per year

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Choose Ohio First scholarship

Ohio residents who have been accepted into this STEM program are eligible for the Choose Ohio First scholarship — a four-year, renewable scholarship.

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Choose Ohio First Scholarship

Honors College

The Jesup Scott Honors College at The University of Toledo offer our best and brightest the resources and opportunities needed to unlock your fullest potential. Whether you aspire following graduation to cure disease, innovate technology, advance statecraft, redefine markets, or express creatively, together we can fuel vibrant and promising tomorrows.

Honors students come from a variety of countries, backgrounds and cultures. While we may bond over a tough class, our differences make us blossom.

Honors students talking with an Honors professor on the steps of the Toledo Museum of Art

Benefits of Honors

The Honors College is a community of academically gifted students from all majors on campus. Students take unique Honors classes taught by dedicated Honors faculty and complete an Honors thesis or capstone project in their major, earning the Honors medallion at graduation within their normal program of study. Honors students are challenged to think more deeply and broadly about what they learn. With special academic, cultural, and professional development opportunities, their education extends beyond the classroom.

Honors students can also choose exclusive housing in the Honors Academic Village or the historic McKinnon, Scott and Tucker Halls.

Explore more about what the Honors College can offer you as a budding professional, inquisitive scholar, and engaged person.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Last Updated: 11/16/23