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Environmental Biology Major

Explore a new level of sustainability, wildlife study, conservation, and environmental education.

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Environmental Biology

Environmental Biology is an exciting and growing field of study at MVNU that equips students for successful and satisfying careers in the environment. Our Christian worldview provides students with a unique approach to the diverse concerns within the environmental arena. We examine sustainability, wildlife study, conservation, and environmental education at local, state, national, and world levels to prepare students for work at home or in the mission field.

Because environmental issues transcend boundaries, we also actively collaborate with fellow organizations that share our concern for the environment including the Knox County Park District, the Brown Family Environmental Center at Kenyon College, Heartland Outdoor School, and the Ohio State University. Students who choose the Environmental Biology major at MVNU receive in-depth training in environmental topics through classes, lab activities, field studies, and partnerships with researchers.

Environmental Biology Curriculum

See what it takes to fight for the planet through a Christ-centered lens. Explore courses designed to help you make a real difference.

Faith & learning at MVNU

At MVNU, our Christian faith is at the core of everything we do. Whether it’s opening class with prayer, diving into Scripture, or examining real-world moral and ethical challenges, we’re committed to shaping students who live out their faith with purpose. Here, you won’t just learn — you’ll be transformed.

Travel

Our travel and study afar programs are more than just an opportunity to see the world — they’re a chance to grow in your faith while experiencing new cultures. Whether you’re serving in communities across the U.S. or learning abroad, each journey is designed to broaden your perspective, deepen your compassion, and equip you to live out your callings in a global context — all while adding valuable experience to your résumé.

Student Teaching:
  • Costa Rica
  • China
  • Central America
  • South America
  • Africa
  • Europe
  • Asia
  • Australia
Service Learning:
  • Belize (Tropical Biology)
  • Swaziland
  • Haiti
  • Croatia, Austria & Hungary
  • Italy
  • Spain, Portugal & France
  • Greater Columbus Area
  • Orlando
  • San Francisco
  • New Orleans
  • Washington, D.C.
  • Guyana
  • Guatemala

Scholarships

Need a little help with finances? We’ve got you covered. Explore scholarships, grants, and other resources to help you pay for your education.

MVNU has many endowed scholarships available for students of a wide variety of backgrounds and majors.

Careers

Environmental Biology is a diverse field that can lead to many career options spanning the alphabet from A to Z and everything in between! Students who graduate with a degree in Environmental Biology may pursue work in academia as a teacher and researcher or zoo management to work closely with animal care and training. Career options also include agriculture, aquatic studies, energy research, environmental assessment, naturalist programs, public health, and wildlife rehabilitation.

PARKS DEPARTMENTS

Work for national, state, and metroparks to create experiences that will keep your communities safe and happy.

CONSERVATION

Work for Soil & Water Conservation Districts to meet the needs of local land users and protect the environment.

WATERSHED CONSERVANCIES

Protect lakes, rivers, or streams by managing watersheds that drain into them.

RESIDENT SCIENTIST

Work with Nature Centers, marine aquariums, zoos, and environmental and outdoor education centers as a scientist in residence.

GOVERNMENT

Work with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) or Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) to inform policy.

environmental biology MVNU Mount Vernon Nazarene University
environmental biology MVNU Mount Vernon Nazarene University in lab

Meet the Faculty

Learn from faculty members who know how to balance theory and practical application for a relevant, empowering, Christ-centered learning experience.

Hands-on learning in our labs

At MVNU, we use all of our resources to help you develop your skills as a scientist and researcher — including our natural resources!

You will work in our laboratories, which round out the learning environment by mimicking the professional settings that students will work in after graduation.

biology MVNU Mount Vernon Nazarene University biologist (2)

Regardless of which Biology track you follow, our faculty want to see you success and prepare for your calling.

biology MVNU Mount Vernon Nazarene University biologist

The Biology curriculum is designed to encourage students to understand scientific theories within a Christian worldview.

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