Environmental and Sustainability Sciences Career Map

Awareness

First Year

• Understand that coastal environments, while covering only 10% of land mass, support 40% of the world's population and are critical for society.
• Recognize the interdisciplinary nature of environmental science and how it integrates various fields to solve global challenges.
• Learn that the program requires a minimum of 120 credit hours for degree completion.
• Develop an awareness of the "General Education Requirements" that must be met alongside core major courses.

Middle Years

• Identify the importance of field methods, instrumentation, and data analysis in studying natural and human environments.
• Become aware of the specific focus on "Natural Sciences" within this concentration, distinguishing it from other sustainability tracks.
• Recognize the role of social scientists in the faculty, highlighting that environmental solutions often require understanding human behavior and community interaction.
• Understand the significance of watersheds and ocean tides in feeding and maintaining coastal ecosystems.

Last Year

• Recognize that the information provided on the department website is for general reference and that the Undergraduate Bulletin is the official source for graduation requirements.
• Stay informed about departmental news and events to remain connected with the professional environmental community.
• Understand the importance of professional networking with local environmental organizations.

Exploration

First Year

• Explore the diverse research interests of the faculty, who have extensive experience working on coastal issues and community sustainability.
• Investigate the physical campus and specialized labs through the online virtual tour.
• Explore the interdisciplinary curriculum to identify areas of particular interest, such as ecology, policy, or conservation.

Middle Years

• Engage with local and regional organizations to explore career possibilities, such as the Alabama Coastal Foundation or The Nature Conservancy.
• Investigate "Natural Sciences" electives to specialize in specific areas like marine biology or environmental chemistry.
• Attend departmental seminars to learn about ongoing faculty research in sustainability and resource management.
  
  

Last Year

• Research professional opportunities with groups like the Dauphin Island Sea Lab or the Alabama Land Trust.
• Network with professionals at local environmental agencies to learn about the current job market in the Gulf Coast region.
• Consult with "Contact Us" resources for personalized guidance on post-graduation pathways in industry or graduate school.

Preparation

First Year

• Build a strong foundation in core science methodologies to prepare for advanced applied analyses.
• Establish a relationship with academic advisors to ensure your graduation plan aligns with the Natural Sciences concentration requirements.
• Review the Undergraduate Bulletin early to plan for the 120-hour requirement.

Middle Years

• Master technical skills in field methods and instrumentation used to study the natural environment.
• Participate in data analysis projects to gain proficiency in interpreting complex environmental datasets.
• Seek out opportunities to work with faculty on issues related to sustainably managing human-environment interactions.

Last Year

• Finalize a professional resume that highlights your interdisciplinary training and technical field skills.
• Inquire about financial aid and specialized scholarships available for senior students in the marine and environmental sciences.
• Apply field-based learning and instrumentation knowledge to senior-level projects or independent research.