Environmental Science Field Technician Option, Environmental Science, A.S.

CONTACT

Laurel Carpenter, 413.552.2263, lcarpenter@hcc.edu

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

This option emphasizes environmental field investigation and includes strong laboratory preparation. Students gain an understanding of environmental science principles as they relate to the movement of contaminants through the ecosystem. Practical experience in the use of specialized sampling and analysis equipment and the methods to assess, control, and prevent environmental contamination are included. Wetland delineation, soil analyses, landfill characterization, and groundwater movement analysis are representative of field activities. Classroom work is supplemented and enriched by an environmental internship field experience. Graduates of this option are ideally suited for positions in government, industry, and consulting, which require field investigation or inspection and some laboratory analysis.

An integral part of this program is an internship/cooperative education field experience with an area industry, governmental agency, or environmental consulting firm. These positions, many of which are paid, allow students the opportunity to put theory into practice and to gain the knowledge and experience necessary to make informed career decisions, to set career goals, and to plan further educational experiences.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

• understand the biological, chemical, and physical aspects of air, water, and land pollution and be able to describe human roles in producing those pollution types
• describe how environmental systems and human systems function
• describe local, national, and international case studies of environmental pollution and be able to describe aspects of environmental justice and ethics surroundings those studies
• organize, present, and write environmental science topics using scientific formatting that would be expected from a career professional
• use computer technology, field, and laboratory equipment to conduct physical, chemical and biological environmental analyses
• understand the importance of accurate data collection, recording and analysis
• use knowledge of scientific methods to interpret and think critically about scientific reports, news, or other media