Are you interested in the relationship between humans and the natural environment?
This program analyzes environmental problems from a variety of disciplines including biology, chemistry, economics, political science, business, and ethics. As you pursue a B.S. in Environmental Science, you will study Christian theological principles and effective communication while you research and approach problems like climate change, pollution, and sustainable agriculture from a scientific perspective. At Multnomah, we believe that faith and science work together for profound discoveries as students dig into God’s world and God’s Word.

Ways to study

Undergraduate (Major) | On-campus

Program concentrations

Environmental Systems | Global Environmental Studies

Course plan

Course plans

Application deadlines

Stewards of His Creation

Psalm 24:1, “The Earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it”. As an environmental science major at Multnomah, you will develop critical thinking skills, scientific research practices, and interpretive skills to carefully explore Scripture and creation. You will learn about the world to understand how to better care for the earth in practical ways. Through immersive field experience and hands-on labs with expert faculty, you will be inspired to embrace your faith and pursue a scientific career.

Two Male Students Conducting Field Research with male professor supervising.

Example Courses

The courses listed below are some of our featured core classes that will be a part of your educational journey here at MU. Take a look at each course for a small preview.

This course integrates biological, chemical, economic, political, and ethical aspects of environmental science on the study of water. Students will be introduced to basic water chemistry, types of aquatic environments, important environmental parameters of water health, the effects of pollution, and water and sewage treatment methods. The impacts of human usage of water through agriculture, urbanization, industrialization, and recreation will also be studied. Two hours of lecture and three hours of lab per week. Offered alternate years. ENV201 is a recommended prerequisite.

Environmental ethics deals with the ethical values of nature and non-human species. Questions that will be addressed include: How do we define “nature”? What is our moral duty to the environment? Are we morally obligated to the planet, ecosystem, species, or individual organisms? How does the increase in technology affect our views of nature? How should the creation mandate affect our view of the environment? What are acceptable Christian responses to environmental issues? Offered alternate years.

Soils are the fundamental nexus between rock, water, air, and biota. This course examines the physical, chemical, and biological processes operating within soils and the near-surface environment. Specific topics covered include rock and mineral weathering, sediment deposition, erosion, landslides, soil formation, plant-soil-water interactions, and cycling of nutrients and contaminants. Land-use planning, soil conservation, water management, and sustainable food production strategies will be emphasized. Two hours of lecture and three hours of lab per week. Offered alternate years. ENV201 and MTH113 are recommended prerequisites.

This course will introduce students to the theory and application of geographic information systems (GIS). Students will learn basic navigation and functionality of GIS, along with acquisition, compilation, analysis, and presentation of spatial data. Offered alternate years.

Degree Requirements

Here you will find everything you need to know about what is required to successfully complete your degree. Whether you are beginning college for the first time or are a transfer student, we’ve got you covered.

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Meet Your Professors

Faculty Headshot Sarah Gall
Sarah Gall, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Chair, Biology

Program Concentrations

This concentration offers a strong and versatile foundation in the fundamental sciences, such as chemistry, biology, and physics, and is ideal for students who wish to pursue a more scientific career in environmental science and environmental health that includes lab work, field work, and research.

This concentration is designed for students interested in human-environment interactions and includes several elective courses that may count toward a minor in Global Studies. Students in the Global Environmental Studies concentration may pursue a career in environmental policy, international development, and/or global missions.

Career Placement

Environmental scientists play an important role in caring for the Earth and exploring creation. With your B.S. in Environmental Science, you will be prepared for roles or graduate-level study to move toward roles, such as:

• Environmental Scientist • Geologist • Biologist
• Water Quality Scientist • Environmental Engineer • Commercial Horticulturalist
• Environmental Education Officer • Sustainability Consultant • Environmental Consultant

“I love teaching at Multnomah because the harmony of the Christian faith and scientific study is embraced. I equip students to study and care for the environment from a deep-seated conviction that Christians have a role to play in the restorative and redemptive work of Creation care to the glory of God.”

Dr. Jason Stuckey, Assistant Professor, Environmental Sciences