The Environmental Science: Transfer Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the natural sciences, environmental policies, sustainability practices, and ecological principles. This associate degree program is designed to prepare students for a smooth transition into a four-year university to pursue a bachelor's degree in Environmental Science or related fields. The curriculum emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating coursework in biology, chemistry, geology, and environmental systems to give students a well-rounded understanding of natural processes and human impacts on the environment.
Students will engage in laboratory and field-based learning experiences to develop practical skills necessary for environmental analysis, data collection, and problem-solving. The program aims to equip students with critical thinking abilities and a solid scientific background, enabling them to analyze environmental issues such as pollution, climate change, resource management, and conservation efforts. Throughout the program, students will also explore environmental policy, ethics, and sustainable development strategies, fostering a sense of responsibility toward promoting environmental health and sustainability.
The associate degree prepares graduates for transfer to four-year institutions where they can further specialize in areas such as ecology, environmental management, or environmental policy. Graduates from the program can expect to pursue careers in environmental consulting, resource conservation, government agencies, non-profit organizations, or continue their education in a related field. The program supports students in developing both academic knowledge and professional competencies necessary for advancing in the environmental sciences sector. With dedicated faculty, state-of-the-art laboratories, and strong ties to local environmental initiatives, Harrisburg Area Community College offers an excellent starting point for students passionate about making a positive impact on the environment through scientific understanding and responsible stewardship.
General Education
ENGL 101 English Composition I 3
ENGL 102 English Composition II (or) 3
ENGL 104 Technical Writing (3)
COMM 101 Effective Speaking 3
Core A Elective 3
Core B Elective (ECON 201) 3
Core B Elective (GIS 141) 3
Core C Elective (BIOL 101) 4
Core C Elective (CHEM 101) 4
Core C Elective (MATH 202) 4
General Education Transfer Elective 3
Physical Education and Wellness 1
Major Requirements
BIOL 102 General Biology II 4
CHEM 102 General Inorganic Chemistry & Qualitative Analysis 4
ENVS 201 Introduction to Environmental Science 4
GEOL 201 Environmental Geology 4
*MATH 119 Pre-Calculus (or) 4
MATH 121 Calculus I (4)
PHYS 201 General Physics I 4
**Program Specific Electives 4
To complete the Environmental Science: Transfer Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College, students are generally required to fulfill both general education and program-specific coursework. The general education requirements typically include foundational courses in English composition, mathematics, social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences to ensure a well-rounded academic background. Students usually need to complete courses such as English Composition I and II, College Algebra or Pre-Calculus, Introduction to Psychology or Sociology, and Critical Thinking, among others.
In addition to general education, the program includes core environmental science courses that cover fundamental topics such as Introduction to Environmental Science, Environmental Chemistry, Ecology, and Principles of Biology. These courses provide students with a solid understanding of ecological systems, chemical principles related to the environment, and the scientific method applied to environmental issues. Laboratory components are often integrated to give hands-on experience in data collection, analysis, and scientific reporting.
Elective courses may include environmental policy, sustainability, waste management, or renewable energy sources, allowing students to tailor their studies towards specific areas of interest within environmental science. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills necessary for transfer to a four-year institution or entry into the environmental sector.
Students are typically advised to maintain a minimum GPA, often around 2.0 or higher, to fulfill graduation requirements and ensure eligibility for transfer programs. Additionally, students may be encouraged to participate in internships or cooperative education experiences to gain practical skills and enhance employability after completion. Transfer agreements with four-year institutions are often available, facilitating seamless progression to bachelor's degree programs in environmental science, environmental studies, or related fields.
Throughout the program, students must complete a specified number of credit hours, commonly around 60 to 65, including both general education and major courses. Successful completion of all coursework, with required grades, is necessary for graduation and transferring to a bachelor's degree program. Students should consult academic advisors and review specific transfer articulation agreements to align their coursework with the requirements of their intended transfer institutions, ensuring a smooth transition and continuation of their environmental science education.
Want to improve your English level for admission?
Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.
- ✔️ Flexible study schedule
- ✔️ Experienced teachers
- ✔️ Certificate upon completion
📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.
Apply for a Full-Ride Scholarship
Are you a future student and ready to apply to HACC?
By applying to HACC, you have the opportunity to apply for a full-ride scholarship! HACC will fund two years of your education – enough to complete your associate degree.
Thanks to the support of the HACC Foundation, the College is able to offer FREE money to support future students, like you, in reaching your educational goals. Six full-ride scholarships are available – one from each of the five campuses and one through HACC’s Virtual Learning Program.
Please note that current students are not eligible for the full-ride scholarships. However, there are more than 250 scholarships available for current students.
What should you know about the full-ride scholarship?
The scholarship covers tuition, books and fees for a full academic year.
The scholarship will automatically renew each term for up to six consecutive terms if you maintain your eligibility.
Once you apply to the College and receive a HACC ID and email address, you may apply for the full-ride scholarship. You do not have to register for classes before applying for the scholarship.
Are you eligible?
To be eligible, you must:
Apply to HACC
Take 12-15 credits each term for no more than six consecutive terms (two years)
Live in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, Schuylkill or York county
Have a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.0
Provide a 480 SAT reading score, 21 ACT or comparable scores on the College’s placement test
Maintain a GPA of 3.0 while enrolled at HACC
Participate in at least two HACC student organizations
The Transfer Associate in Environmental Science at Harrisburg Area Community College is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of environmental science, preparing them for further study at four-year institutions. The program emphasizes understanding the natural environment, human impact on ecosystems, and sustainable practices. Students engage in coursework covering ecology, chemistry, biology, geology, and environmental policy, acquiring both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum is structured to facilitate a seamless transfer to universities, often aligning with four-year degree requirements in environmental science, environmental studies, or related majors. Students also gain experience through laboratory work, field studies, and research projects, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities essential for addressing environmental challenges. The program aims to equip graduates with the necessary competencies to pursue careers in environmental consulting, conservation, renewable energy, or to continue their education in specialized environmental fields. Harrisburg Area Community College supports students with academic advising, transfer services, and access to faculty expertise to ensure a successful transition to bachelor’s degree programs. The associate degree typically takes two years to complete and serves as a stepping stone toward more advanced qualifications. The curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated in collaboration with partner universities to meet evolving industry standards and academic expectations. Students are encouraged to participate in internships and community projects related to environmental science to gain real-world experience and build professional networks. Upon completion, graduates should be well-prepared to contribute positively to environmental management, policy-making, and sustainable development initiatives.
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