The mission of environmental studies at Bethel is to guide students in the pursuit of truth about the workings of creation and the human place in it and to enable them to practice environmental stewardship in lifestyle and profession. Caring for the whole of creation is an immense privilege and responsibility, and we prepare students for this task through a curriculum that integrates knowledge and perspective from a variety of established disciplines (e.g., biology, chemistry, economics, geology, history, political science).
Environmental studies combines classroom and laboratory instruction with a variety of field experiences. Students cap their education in environmental studies by designing and conducting a specific research project under the direction of a faculty mentor. Those who complete the program successfully will be prepared for a variety of types of employment (e.g., natural resource conservation, outdoor education, environmental advocacy) or for graduate school. The number of such opportunities is continually increasing as is the need for educated, committed environmental stewards. |