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Environmental Science & Stewardship

Study & Stewardship of God’s Creation
Shield PHCThe ESS major equips students to fulfill their divinely appointed role as stewards of the Creation who apply multi-disciplinary solutions to environmental problems. 
ESS students are prepared to become environmental scientists and may choose from optional tracks in Law & Policy, Science Pedagogy, or Pre-Med.

 

 
 

View the Program Guide

ESS program guideESS Curriculum

In the 21st century, environmental scientists must be trained to independently conduct and analyze research, evaluate problems holistically, and draw data from a range of disciplines to develop integrative solutions in an increasingly complex world.  They must be able to communicate their findings effectively, bridging the gaps that exist between scientists, industry, policy makers, and the public.

PHC is the best preparation for the next generation of environmental scientists.

ESS students study biology, chemistry, physics, statistics, hydrology, geology, ecology, calculus, and more. These disciplines are integrated in capstone experiences, including courses in environmental science and the philosophy of stewardship, as well as apprenticeships. 

PHC's distinct Classical Liberal Arts Core Curriculum helps students develop excellent critical thinking and communication skills. The ESS major integrates principles of biblical stewardship and cultivates an ethic of responsibility, wonder, and gratitude.

Students may choose from optional tracks in Law & Policy, Pre-Med, and Science Pedagogy and shape their apprenticeships according to their career goals. 

Faculty

At Patrick Henry College, the ESS faculty bring a rare mix of academic qualifications with research and teaching experience. From exploring the impact of biofuels on the atmosphere to forecasting the impact of vaccination programs and tracking the spread of respiratory viruses, ESS faculty have used their expertise to serve their neighbors and steward the environment.

 

Tracey McGrath, Ph.D.

Ph.D. & M.A. from Princeton University; B.A. from the University of Chicago.

 

Mark T. Mitchell, Ph.D.

Ph.D. & M.A. from Georgetown University; M.A. from Gonzaga University; B.A. from Crown College.

 

Mike Jackson, Ph.D.

MPH  in Epidemiology from the University of Washington
PhD in Epidemiology from the University of Washington

 

PHC faculty are committed to academic excellence in all spheres of knowledge, rooted in timeless Scriptural principles.  Students are mentored by caring faculty and equipped for a lifetime of service to others and care for the environment.

Environmental Science Course List
Genesis 1:26: Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.”

 

Career Paths

 

 

Whether pursuing a career in wildlife conservation, natural resource management, or environmental consulting, the ESS program trains students to seek meaningful answers to difficult questions. Graduates are prepared for entry-level jobs in environmental science, secondary education, policy analysis, as well as graduate science programs.


Law & Policy

As environmental issues increasingly attract public and political attention, the ESS program equips students to navigate these concerns. Whether working in government, for a think tank, or pursuing a graduate degree, the robust science foundation prepares graduates to  assess environmental law and policy responsibly.

 

Law & Policy Track Course List

 

 


Pre-Medical Studies

The 21st-century physician must be capable of critically evaluating vast amounts of information, communicating clearly, and understanding the human experience holistically. The ESS program prepares students to pass the MCAT® and thrive in medical school and beyond.

Pre-Med Track Course List

 

 

 

Science Pedagogy

Educators have the God-given responsibility to foster students’ natural curiosity, so that they may know Him through His Creation. The ESS program equips graduates to fulfill this calling by teaching a variety of science courses, cultivating a lifelong love of learning in their own students.

 

Science Pedagogy Track Course List

 

Explore the Pre-Med Advising Program...

Pre-Med Advising Program