ESRM: Environmental Science Emphasis

The Environmental Science Emphasis program at California State University is designed to prepare students for careers in understanding and addressing complex environmental challenges. This interdisciplinary program combines core coursework in biology, chemistry, geology, and environmental policy, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of natural systems and human impacts on the environment. Students will gain hands-on experience through laboratory and fieldwork, applying scientific principles to real-world issues such as climate change, pollution, conservation, and sustainable resource management. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and effective communication skills, enabling graduates to develop innovative solutions and participate actively in environmental policy and decision-making processes. The program also encourages engagement with local communities and environmental organizations, fostering a sense of responsibility and leadership in promoting ecological sustainability. Graduates of the Environmental Science Emphasis are well-equipped for diverse careers in environmental consulting, research, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and private sector companies dedicated to environmental protection and sustainability. They are prepared to pursue advanced degrees in environmental science, environmental policy, or related fields, further enhancing their expertise and career prospects. By focusing on both scientific rigor and practical application, this program aims to cultivate environmentally conscious professionals capable of making informed decisions that benefit society and the planet. California State University's commitment to sustainability and community engagement ensures that students are trained in current environmental issues and equipped with the skills necessary to create positive change. Whether interested in fieldwork, laboratory research, policy development, or education, students in this program will find a challenging and rewarding academic experience that prepares them to become leaders in the vital field of environmental science.

ESRM 352 Theory and Practice of Ecological Restoration (3)
CHEM 250 Quantitative Analysis (2)
CHEM 251 Quantitative Analysis Laboratory (2)

Select a total of nine units from the following courses:

BIOL 301 Microbiology (4)
BIOL 310 Vertebrate Biology and Ecology (4)
BIOL 312 Marine Biology (4)
BIOL 316 Invertebrate Zoology (4)
BIOL 333 Emerging Public Health Issues (2)
BIOL 334 Natural History of Ventura County (3)
BIOL 402 Toxicology (3)
BIOL 432 Principles of Epidemiology and Environmental Health (3)
BIOL 450 Ichthyology: The Biology of Fishes (4)
BIOL 451 Ornithology (4)
CHEM 311 Organic Chemistry I (3)
CHEM 312 Organic Chemistry I Laboratory (1)
CHEM 314 Organic Chemistry II (3)
CHEM 315 Organic Chemistry II Laboratory (1)
CHEM 318 Biological Chemistry (3)
CHEM 344 Energy and Society (PHYS) (3)
ENGL 482 Technical Writing (3)
ENGL 483 Technical Visual Communication (3)
ESRM 350 Ecological Restoration Design and Construction (4)
ESRM 351 Field Methods: Monitoring and Assessment (4)
ESRM 428 Intermediate Geographic Information Systems (3)
ESRM 443 Environmental Communication (COMM) (3)
ESRM 481 Topics in Environmental Pollution (3)
ESRM 490 Special Topics (3)
ESRM 492 Service Learning/Internship (3)
ESRM 494 Independent Research (1-3)
MATH 430 Research Design and Data Analysis (3)
PHYS 201General Physics II (4)
PHYS 344 Energy and Society (3)

International Freshmen Checklist 

International Transfer Checklist 

Financial Affidavit for Undergraduate applicants 

Submit all application documents to the Center for International Affairs. 

*Transfer Students: We are currently accepting applications from all community colleges in the U.S.  Please make sure that you have at least 60 units and have completed “Oral communication”, “Written communication”, “Critical thinking” and “College level mathematics/quantitative reasoning” with “C” or better.  Please note that the Nursing programs are closed for international students.  

English Score

Submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other acceptable test (see below for list of tests).  Scores must be sent directly to CSUCI from testing agency.

Acceptable English Placement Exams

TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language with a minimum Paper-Based score of 500, a minimum Computer Based score of 173 or a minimum Internet Based score of 61.

IELTS – International English Language Test System with an overall band score of 6.0.

*Transfer students: It’s not necessary to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score if you have completed the required Freshman Composition Class at your community college.

Gross tuition fees for the ESRM: Environmental Science Emphasis program at California State University typically range from approximately $7,000 to $8,500 per academic year for in-state students and around $17,000 to $19,500 for out-of-state students. These figures are based on recent data and may vary slightly depending on the specific term and any fee adjustments made by the university. In addition to tuition, students should budget for mandatory fees, such as registration, student health and services fees, and laboratory or materials fees, which can amount to several hundred dollars per semester. Living expenses, including housing, food, transportation, and personal costs, are also significant and vary by location and individual circumstances; estimates for on-campus housing range from $8,000 to $12,000 per year, while off-campus options may be less or more expensive depending on the area.

Financial aid opportunities are available to eligible students, including federal and state grants, scholarships, and loans. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the primary application process for federal aid, and prospective students are encouraged to complete it annually to determine eligibility. CSU offers various merit-based and need-based scholarships, some of which are specific to environmental science or related fields, and students are advised to explore university scholarship portals and departmental awards. Work-study programs provide opportunities for on-campus employment, which can help offset living expenses.

Additionally, students may seek private scholarships or external funding from environmental organizations, government agencies, or private foundations that support environmental studies and research. Many students also consider part-time employment, internships, or cooperative education programs to gain practical experience and supplement their income. It is important for students to plan their finances thoroughly, considering both direct costs like tuition and indirect costs such as housing and daily expenses. Overall, pursuing the ESRM: Environmental Science Emphasis program involves a significant financial investment, but multiple funding avenues are available to support student success.

The Environmental Science Emphasis (ESRM) program at California State University offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on understanding the complex interactions between natural systems and human activities. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in environmental management, policy, conservation, and research by providing a solid foundation in scientific principles, data analysis, and practical skills. Students enrolled in the ESRM: Environmental Science Emphasis engage in coursework covering various topics such as ecology, geology, chemistry, environmental policy, and sustainable development. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to analyze environmental problems from multiple perspectives and develop innovative solutions.

Students have opportunities for hands-on learning through laboratory work, field trips, internships, and research projects. The program collaborates with local government agencies, environmental organizations, and industry partners to facilitate experiential learning and practical application of knowledge. Graduates of this program often pursue professions with governmental agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency, non-profit organizations focused on conservation, private consulting firms, or continue their education in graduate programs. The program also promotes critical thinking, communication skills, and ethical considerations essential for responsible environmental stewardship. The faculty involved in the ESRM program are actively engaged in research that addresses pressing environmental challenges, contributing to the development of new knowledge and innovative approaches to sustainable future solutions. With its emphasis on real-world application and interdisciplinary training, the ESRM: Environmental Science Emphasis at California State University aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to make meaningful contributions to environmental sustainability and policy development.