University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown

Environmental Studies

Pitt-Johnstown Environmental Studies learn about policy, science and methodological skills commonly required in real-world application.

Curriculum »  |  Courses »  |  Faculty

The unique nature of Pitt-Johnstown’s environmental studies major accommodates a wide variety of career paths, preparing students for jobs ranging from niche to the most popular in the field. This interdisciplinary major produces well rounded students knowledgeable in many different fields of both natural and social sciences. 

The major consists of two core courses – Introduction to Environmental Studies and Senior Seminar – and an internship.  Major requirements consist of seven environmental policy courses including courses such as biodiversity conservation, environmental planning, and environmental ethics. Eight environmental science courses are also required with classes such as soil in the environment, watersheds, physical geography, hydrology, and animal behavior. Seven social science courses round out the major requirements with classes such as environmental field studies, earth and people, urban development, and comparative politics.  

Students are encouraged to pursue a Geographic Information Systems certificate ». This certificate prepares students for spatial data collection and analysis by using advanced drone technology and many other important tools. 

The major also includes unique field courses for a more hands-on experience and requires an internship for real-world learning. Many students are offered jobs after graduation with the companies they interned for during their time at UPJ. Most environmental studies majors also complete a minor or a second major in geography, geology, biology, or political science and many also continue their education at graduate schools around the country.

UPJ Soil Judging Team
Soil Judging is an intercollegiate competition that takes place across the country.  Pitt-Johnstown participates in the Northeast Regional competition which takes place early October every year, with a rotation of schools hosting the location.
Contact
Geography Department, 108D Krebs Hall
Mitzy Schaney, PhD, Assistant Professor and Director of Environmental Studies
814-269-2993 | mis212@pitt.edu