BSc in Environmental Science (Pollution and Environmental Contaminants) in Reno United States | University of Nevada, Reno

Environmental pollution presents challenges at local, regional, and worldwide scales, escalating alongside rising human populations and resource demands that strain ecosystems. The Pollution and Environmental Contaminants specialization explores pollutant movement, transformation, and their biological impacts. Coursework examines organic and inorganic pollutants like mercury, pesticides, heavy metals, and newer concerns including pharmaceuticals and antibiotics. Students also study contaminant cycling through air, water, soil, and living organisms. The program includes courses on how environmental pollutants affect human and animal health. This specialization equips students with strong chemistry and physics foundations, opening diverse career paths. Graduates are prepared for advanced study or careers with government agencies (such as Nevada's Environmental Protection Division, EPA, or NRCS), environmental consulting firms, and nonprofit organizations.
Students will develop the ability to:
apply critical thinking by evaluating issues, collecting and interpreting relevant data, and formulating potential solutions. communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. demonstrate professional expertise in their chosen field.