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Difference between environmental science and environmental studies

If you are a student and your subject is environmental science or environmental studies but you don’t know the difference between these two topics then come with me and I will tell you about it. If you want to become environmentalist or a scientist then this article will be of great use for you.

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Environmental science incorporates the study of the physical, chemical and biological processes that take place on the Earth, as well as the social, political and cultural processes which impact the planet. Environmental science is academically rigorous and involves developing a wide range of transferable skills that are very useful in the job market. If you are interested in working in a related field or even going on to further study, then environmental science is an excellent degree choice.

Environmental Science and Environmental Studies both have to do with studying the environment. However, the difference between Environmental studies and Environmental Sciences is more of a chronological thing. First you have to study environmental sciences which is an academic study , then move on to environmental studies, which is a more applied approach .

what is environmental studies

Environmental studies is a multidisciplinary academic field which systematically studies human interaction with the environment. Environmental studies connects principles from the physical sciences, commerce/economics, the humanities, and social sciences to address complex contemporary environmental issues.

Environmental Studies is a one-year program that focuses on the study of environmental phenomena and global systems. A culminating project is included with course work, research, travel, service learning and an internship experience. This eye-opening, hands-on program immerses students in the intricate and beautifully interconnected web of life that surrounds us. Major themes will be introduced via studies of local ecosystems, including the study of local flora and fauna, and forest and grassland management. Youthful enthusiasm and curiosity will be encouraged to wild extremes as students begin to apply what they’ve learned back at home – growing gardens, composting, making art – and forging a connection between the wonders of nature and their role as stewards of the world we all share. The results will be transformative as students explore new ways to protect the planet.

difference between environmental science and environmental education

What is the difference between environment education and environmental science? For prospective students who want to apply for a program of study in any university or college, it is crucial you know the difference between environmental science and environmental education. Need not worry as this article provides the required information you need to know about the difference between environmental science and environmental education.

Environmental sciences is the combination of biological, chemical, geological, and mathematical principles as they apply to the environment and environmental problems. Commonly, environmental sciences is thought of as the study of solving these problems, such as degradation and pollution of the environment, that may have been caused by humans. Environmental sciences also focuses on preserving and managing natural resources. Environmental studies broadens the field as it includes more emphasis on the political, economic, and social aspects related to the environment, topics which include sustainability.

Although many majors across campus focus on specific disciplines related to the environment, there are two relatively new majors that are centered more holistically on the subject.

However, despite their similar names, Environmental STUDIES and Environmental SCIENCES, they are fundamentally different majors reflected in their curriculum, focus, and the pathway you choose to tap your strengths and interests toward the environmental challenges of the future.

Environmental science is the academic and research-based branch which investigates the relationship between humans and their environment. An environmental scientist studies and seeks to understand how the climate and natural world works and relate these findings to human society and changes over time. Environmental sciences also includes analyses of how soil, water, plants, animals and microbes react negatively or positively to pollution. Environmental studies is a non-scientific discipline which examines environmental issues such as sustainability or pollution without engaging in scientific investigation. Consider enrolling in an environmental science program if you are interested in science, but also want to consider policy decisions related to the environment.

Difference between environmental science and environmental studies

Environmental Sciences is a stand-alone major that draws on fundamental scientific knowledge in mathematics, chemistry, physics, and biology coupled with specialization in a particular area of science to provide advanced scientific and quantitative understanding of contemporary environmental challenges.

Environmental Studies is a major (that must be part of a double major) that provides a broadly integrated understanding to the social, political, and historical facets of our environmental challenges with focus on policy, law, and sociality aspect of these challenges.

For example, imagine an oil spill in a lake that was caused by an equipment malfunction.

In this case, an Environmental Sciences major might examine this situation by asking questions such as:

  • How much oil was spilled?
  • Where will this oil go, and how will it quantitatively affect chemical, physical, and biological environmental systems?
  • What is the environmental risk of this oil spill to humans, animals, and habitats and how can we assess it?
  • What will be the long-term outcome of this spill on environmental systems, and how can we prevent this from happening in the future from a scientific standpoint?

Conversely, an Environmental Studies major might examine this situation by asking questions such as:

  • What are the economic and social impacts of this oil spill?
  • What policies, laws, and regulations are in place that were/were not followed in this situation? If there aren’t any policies, regulations, or laws in place, how can I work with my local government to improve this situation?
  • How can I educate my community about this oil spill and its effects on the environment?
  • How can my community prevent this from happening again? And if not, how can they prepare?

Continue reading to discover the latest information on the difference between environment and environmental science, difference between environmental science and environmental management, difference between environmental science and environmental engineering, difference between environmental studies and social studies, what is the difference between environmental science and environmentalism and what is the difference between environmental science and ecology. You can also find related posts on Collegelearners.

difference between environmental science and environmental management

The problems society will confront in the coming years are daunting. By the year 2050, scientists have predicted that human energy demands will be at least three times what they are now. Furthermore, human population growth is predicted to expand to between nine and twelve billion people.

Such increases will result in severe pressure on natural ecosystems as well as challenge our ability to maintain, let alone improve, our standard of living. It will take intelligent and creative people with an in-depth understanding of the complex interactions of the Earth’s ecosystems and deep vision to address these issues.

Career in Environmental Science

Environmental Scientists collect data and perform experiments to provide real insight into complex environmental problems in industry, environmental management and natural resource conservation.

Graduates will find career opportunities in a variety of areas that include:
Soil Ecologists
Forest Service Biologists
Wildlife Biologists
Rangers
Watershed Management
And water quality managers for cities.
In addition, many students go on to pursue graduate degrees in related fields.

The interdisciplinary nature of Environmental Science and Studies allows students the ability to explore various options during their college career and specialise in a number of different areas.

Environmental studies generally involves conducting organized surveys to collect information, while environmental science is the application of both natural and social sciences to solve real-world environmental issues. Environmental Science specifically involves the scientific process, scientific investigation, scientific hypothesis, scientific experiment, scientific theory, data collection, data analysis and conclusions drawn from that data to support or falsify the hypothesis.

what is the difference between environmental studies and environmental science quizlet

Environmental Science and Environmental Studies courses emphasise studies in the field with a broad range of hands-on experiences. Many environmental programmes include excursions to forests, jungles, deserts and volcanic regions – many of these being overnight or week-long.

Theory and lab research are necessary, but researching ecosystems in the outdoors 
is fundamental.

Environmental Management 
and Policy, by Professor Karen Beiser
Environmental Management and Policy (EMP) provides the theoretical knowledge and practical skills future leaders will need to address the pressing challenges of creating and maintaining a sustainable world.

Climate change
Scarce resource administration
Pollution and waste management
Environmental design
And explosive population growth are just a few of the demanding issues executives all over the world must currently address.

EMP students concentrate on a core foundation in natural and social sciences, business, economics and humanities.

Students will develop their particular interests as well, with environmentally-focused coursework in any or all of these areas.

EMP majors will be prepared for careers in extensive and diverse fields, including:

  • Corporate and industrial environmental compliance
  • Environmental consulting
  • Non-governmental environmental advocacy
  • Public safety and regulation
  • And, should students want a legal career, EMP is an excellent precursor to law school.

Graduates with degrees in Environmental Management and Policy will be able to face and resolve crucial issues by demonstrating in-depth knowledge of scientific, political, legal and economic processes associated with decision-making and strategy formation.

They will also be well educated in ethical administration and will completely understand the implications of their decisions on environmental matters and which course of action to take.

Environmental Studies & Science
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