Environmental science | Culture and communication option
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science
Overview
- In-state: $9,824
- Out-of-state: $29,300
- WUE/Invitation to Idaho: $13,538
Related Topics
Communicate solutions for a changing world.
Today’s ecological challenges are cultural as much as scientific. Solutions to these challenges require effective communication, public engagement, and informed decision-making.
The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with a culture and communication option provides a foundation in both environmental science and the human contexts in which science happens – contexts that are social, historical, political and economical. From climate change to conservation, solving complex problems demands new stories and creative ways to imagine and build a sustainable future.
With this emphasis, you'll gain versatile skills and communication strategies that can help bridge gaps between researchers, policymakers and communities.
This interdisciplinary program prepares you to become a leader who can connect science with society and help communities address environmental challenges.
Environmental science students who specialize in culture and communication are ready for careers in journalism, science writing, public affairs, website design, nonprofit leadership and more. This program provides an excellent foundation for graduate study in environmental law, public policy and communication.
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Are passionate about environmental issues.
- Have a desire to develop strong interpersonal communication skills.
- Enjoy the outdoors.
- Want to help communities understand environmental challenges.
- Enjoy both science and communication.
- Like writing about environmental issues.
- Want a career that combines environmental knowledge with leadership and communication skills.
- Are interested in environmental advocacy, journalism or community engagement.
Communicate the importance of natural resources
Curriculum
The 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with a culture and communication option combines environmental science coursework with studies in communication, sociology, policy, history and the humanities.
You will develop a strong foundation in environmental systems while learning how environmental issues are communicated, understood and addressed by individuals, organizations and communities.
Field experiences, applied learning and a senior research capstone provide opportunities to connect classroom learning with real-world environmental challenges.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
2,335 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Compliance Officers • Environmental Compliance Inspectors • Government Property Inspectors and Investigators • Regulatory Affairs Specialists
$84,215 - Environmental Scientists and Specialists • Climate Change Analysts • Environmental Restoration Planners • Industrial Ecologists
$92,711 - Environmental Science Technicians
$61,263 - Postsecondary Environmental Science Teachers
$87,431 - Forest and Conservation Technicians
$54,015
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
The Env.S. curriculum includes field-based courses offered through other departments such as Fish and Wildlife, Geology and more.
Examples of field-based courses include:
- Field Activities in Environmental Science
- Senior Research Capstone
Clubs
- Environmental Club
- Conservation Biology Club
Internships
Environmental science students find internships with public agencies, non-profit organizations, private industry and research institutions.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:
- Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
- Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
- Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.
If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
Recognized STEM Program
This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.
Overview
- In-state: $9,824
- Out-of-state: $29,300
- WUE/Invitation to Idaho: $13,538
Related Topics
Have questions?
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Connect with your admissions counselor or request more information to get personalized guidance on program details, requirements and next steps.
Find your admissions counselor
Request more information
Connect with program faculty
See environmental science in action
Vandal Experience | ASUI President Lauren Carlson
Every Vandal's story is different — take a peek into Lauren Carlsen's. Lauren's the ASUI President, an environmental science major, a Gamma Phi Beta and so much more. Hold on tight and check out a typical busy day in her life.
Why earn your environmental science degree focused on culture and communication?
Environmental challenges are shaped as much by people, policy and communication as they are by science. University of Idaho’s Environmental Science degree with a culture and communication focus prepares you to understand complex environmental issues through scientific, social and cultural perspectives while building the communication skills needed to inform, advocate and lead.
- Study environmental science through the lenses of communication, policy, sociology, philosophy and history.
- Build skills in environmental writing, science communication and public engagement.
- Learn how culture, politics and society influence environmental decision-making and natural resource management.
- Gain hands-on experience through fieldwork, internships and interdisciplinary learning opportunities.
- Prepare for careers in environmental communication, journalism, public affairs, consulting and community engagement.