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Science & Mathematics

Earth & Environmental Science

Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Discover the science behind Earth’s diverse ecosystems.

You have passion for science, a deep connection to the environment, and an insatiable curiosity about the world around you. As you grow into a career as an environmental educator, marine biologist, pharmaceutical researcher, brain researcher, or more, you'll blaze a trail as an innovator and creative thinker.

Laboratory work in biology and chemistry, along with courses in earth science, geology, physics, and calculus, will give you a foundation in scientific methods and practices. And our reimagined general education curriculum will provide the foundation you’ll need to promote community, justice, and a more sustainable future.

Gain a deep understanding of nature, the history of life and humanity, and the complexities of human-environment interactions. Learn how human activity affects our soil, air, water, as well as plant and animal life. You’ll examine the ways in which these systems rely on each other, and how our health is connected to the planet’s health. And, you’ll work alongside professors who are experts in climate change.

Test out what you’re learning in the classroom through directly observing nature. Take advantage of Lesley’s location to research urban and coastal ecosystems. Our experiential teaching methods ensure you're not just memorizing facts and equations, but also seeing how concepts relate to real life. You’ll develop a sense of social responsibility with regard to scientific pursuits and work with local communities to engage citizens and increase your understanding of environmental issues.

You'll make the connections that will launch your career with hands on experiences during your internships. With experience in places like the Museum of Science, Boston Financial, New England Aquarium, Boston Consulting Group, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, and many more, you'll graduate ready to succeed.

Our program has three tracks: biology and earth science, education, and environmental health. You can follow a track that prepares you to conduct research, teach, or become an advocate. Whatever you choose, you’ll be ready to pursue a range of careers or graduate study.

Undergraduate Program Inquiry Form

Program Structure

Full-time or part-time on-campus program

120 Credits
Thinking about transferring here?

Log in to Transferology, add the courses you've taken, and see how they'll transfer to Lesley University.

cemetery tombs and plants

Mount Auburn Cemetery Collaboration

This biodiversity study contributes to the growing knowledge of how humans and urban ecosystems interact with each other. "With 80 percent of the world’s population currently living in urban areas, places like Mt. Auburn allow us to learn more about sustaining a healthy ecosystem for both people and wildlife,” says professor Dave Morimoto.

Craft Creative Combinations
As an Earth and Environmental Science major, you can pursue a second major or one of our 45+ minors—in art & design or a liberal arts subject—to expand your career opportunities.

Forge your own path with a creative combination:
Gain Skills and Expertise
Here’s a taste of what you’ll do in our Earth and Environmental Science program:
students from an environmental science class outside in a group

Small College, Big University

Within the dynamic environment of a larger university, you'll receive the personalized education of a small liberal arts college of 1,300 students and hands-on attention from specialized faculty. In our mathematics and science programs, you'll build your critical thinking, observational, and analytical skills to help solve the world's complex problems.

$71,360
Average salary for earth and environmental science professionals in the U.S.
With job openings projected to increase by 8 percent between 2018 and 2028, and average salaries of over $70,000 per year, graduates from earth and environmental science programs enjoy excellent employment opportunities in the Greater Boston area and beyond. From environmental research and advocacy to field work and beyond, the program will prepare you for jobs across a range of industries. (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2019)
Careers
Jobs You Could Have
Job opportunities for earth and environmental studies majors are projected to increase by nine percent in the next ten years. Common job titles include:
Careers
Where You Could Work
Graduates of earth and environmental studies programs pursue a wide range of careers across a variety of industries, including:
doble campus during the fall

Cambridge is our campus. Boston is our neighbor.

Whether you're pursuing environmental studies, biology, or another science or math major, you'll take classes on our three beautiful Cambridge campuses. Work alongside faculty researchers in our state-of-the-art science lab and benefit from being in Cambridge, home to 200+ companies and incubator labs that are studying life sciences and clean energy. Discover the Cambridge and Boston area—a dynamic hub of internships, professional opportunities, service work, culture, and fun that few other cities can match.

Faculty

Approximate cost, before financial aid, for one year of study in this undergraduate program.
Earth & Environmental Science
Housing Options
Compare the cost of the program for students who live on campus in a residence hall with the cost for commuter students.
  • Tuition
    Fall Tuition
    $15,945
    Spring Tuition
    $15,945
  • Fees
    Software Fee
    $200
    Fall Comprehensive Fee
    $445
    Spring Comprehensive Fee
    $445
  • Room & Board
    Fall Health and Wellness Fee
    $445
    Spring Health and Wellness Fee
    $445
    Fall Room (double, triple, or quad room)
    $5,740
    Spring Room (double, triple, or quad room)
    $5,740
    Fall Meal Plan
    $3,790
    Spring Meal Plan
    $3,790
    Housing Deposit (one-time fee)
    $300
  • Total cost before financial aid
Estimated Cost

Merit Scholarships & Financial Aid

It’s our goal at Lesley to break down financial barriers so that students who want to learn here, can learn here. That’s why we offer generous, customized aid packages for students based on their individual needs. In fact, more than 98% of our full-time undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid. Learn more about Financial Aid & Scholarships.

Tuition & Fees

Other fees may apply. Review all undergraduate tuition and fees, and what they cover.

Tuition and fees are subject to change each year, effective June 1.

Housing Options
Compare the cost of the program for students who live on campus in a residence hall with the cost for commuter students.
  • Tuition
    Fall Tuition
    $15,945
    Spring Tuition
    $15,945
  • Fees
    Software Fee
    $200
    Fall Comprehensive Fee
    $445
    Spring Comprehensive Fee
    $445
  • Room & Board
    Fall Health and Wellness Fee
    $445
    Spring Health and Wellness Fee
    $445
    Fall Room (double, triple, or quad room)
    $5,740
    Spring Room (double, triple, or quad room)
    $5,740
    Fall Meal Plan
    $3,790
    Spring Meal Plan
    $3,790
    Housing Deposit (one-time fee)
    $300
  • Total cost before financial aid
Estimated Cost

Merit Scholarships & Financial Aid

It’s our goal at Lesley to break down financial barriers so that students who want to learn here, can learn here. That’s why we offer generous, customized aid packages for students based on their individual needs. In fact, more than 98% of our full-time undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid. Learn more about Financial Aid & Scholarships.

Tuition & Fees

Other fees may apply. Review all undergraduate tuition and fees, and what they cover.

Tuition and fees are subject to change each year, effective June 1.

Apply Now

Ready to get started? We're here to make the application process as smooth as possible. Just answer a few quick questions, and get your customized application guide.

Approximate cost, before financial aid, for one year of study in this undergraduate program. Tuition and fees are for the 2023-2024 academic year.
Use our step-by-step guide to apply for federal, state, and university funding. Scholarships, grants, Work-Study, and loans. It’s all right here.

Next steps to apply

Ready to get started? We're here to make the application process as smooth as possible. Just answer a few quick questions, and get your customized application guide.