UMass Boston

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Environmental Biology Minor

Explore the Connection Between Life & the Environment. 

The Environmental Biology Minor at UMass Boston focuses on the complex relationships between living organisms and their environments. In this program, you’ll gain a solid understanding of ecological principles and environmental issues. You’ll study topics like conservation, sustainability, and the impact of human activities on ecosystems. 

This program nurtures future environmental stewards who are ready to tackle global challenges and make a positive impact on the planet. After completing this program, you’ll be equipped for many different career paths, from environmental consulting and conservation work to research and education. 

Expand Your Studies

How to Apply/Declare

Current Undergraduate Students: Declare or change your minor by completing an Undergraduate Program Add/Change form.

Prospective Undergraduate Students: Apply for admission to UMass Boston by completing an application. Start by reviewing the first-year and transfer application pages for important information about requirements, deadlines, and application status checks. Use the links below to apply: 

Apply as a First-Year Student

Apply as a Transfer Student

Curriculum

Environmental Science Course (3 Credits)

  • ENVSTY 101 - The Nature of Environmental Problems 3 Credit(s)

100-Level Biology Courses (8 Credits)

  • BIOL 111 - General Biology I 4 Credit(s)
  • BIOL 112 - General Biology II 4 Credit(s)

200-Level Biology Courses (7 Credits)

  • BIOL 252 - Genetics 4 Credit(s)
  • BIOL 290 - Population Biology 3 Credit(s)

300-Level Biology Elective (3 to 4 Credits)

Take one course from the list below.

  • BIOL 334 - Microbiology 4 Credit(s)
  • BIOL 336L - Ecosystems Ecology 3 Credit(s)
  • BIOL 340 - Marine Mammal Biology 3 Credit(s)
  • BIOL 342 - Ecology 3 Credit(s)
  • BIOL 352 - Evolution 3 Credit(s)
  • BIOL 384L - Game Theory, Evolution and Ecology 3 Credit(s)

Environmental Capstone (3 Credits)

Completion Requirements

Complete at least 23 credits from seven courses, including one environmental science course, two 100-level biology courses, two 200-level biology courses, one 300-level biology elective, and one environmental capstone.

GPA: A minimum GPA of 2.0 is required for all courses used for the minor.
Pass/fail: No more than one course taken pass/fail may be applied toward the minor. The capstone may not be taken pass/fail.
Residency: At least five courses for the minor must be completed at UMass Boston including the capstone.

Contact

Rachel Skvirsky, PhD, Biology Department Chair
Integrated Sciences Complex, 4th Floor, Room 4420
617.287.6617
Rachel.Skvirsky [@] umb.edu

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Next Steps

Declare or Change Your Minor Request Info About UMass Boston Undergraduate Admissions