Department of Atmospheric Science, Environmental Science and Physics
Welcome to the Department of Atmospheric Science, Environmental Science and Physics at the University of the Incarnate Word. One of six departments in the School of Mathematics, Science and Engineering, it offers exciting and cutting-edge study into the workings, nature and properties of the world.
Students can select from a broad array of degrees offered, including bachelor’s degrees and minors in Meteorology and Broadcast Meteorology, a bachelor's degree and minor in Environmental Science, a minor in Physics and a minor in Geology. In each program, students learn from faculty who include leading researchers in their fields, exceptional educators, and skilled practitioners who teach drawing from their deep scholarship and professional experience. Small class sizes mean greater access to faculty and more direct mentorship, better preparing students for careers in the sciences.
To enrich their academic experience and deepen their studies, students can take part in related organizations or societies. Some students may even take part in research opportunities through their advisor or faculty members, or as part of a student employment position.
Environmental Science
The Environmental Science degree program is designed for students who wish to receive a comprehensive environmental science education for the purpose of research into and management of Earth's natural resources, and for promotion of environmental protection of these resources for public health and welfare. Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary program which prepares students for entering a wide variety of professional careers as well as graduate programs in pollution abatement, conservation, environmental assessment, and education. Government, industry, and private research groups provide entry-level positions for environmental scientists.
The Environmental Science program philosophy seeks to develop in the student an appreciation of the Earth's fragile ecosystems through education and understanding of the Earth's biosphere. The student learns to critically analyze and evaluate environmental problems and issues and identify possible solutions compatible with the needs and requirements of all life within the environment.
The Environmental Science program provides a comprehensive liberal arts education with a unique core curriculum connected with a broad-based and in-depth education in biology, chemistry, geology and physics. Students will gain an understanding of how the physical, biological and chemical processes operate in the natural environment of the Earth and comprehend the complex connections and interactions among these processes. Students will learn the necessity of conserving our natural resources for maintaining and improving the quality of human life while developing a sense of service toward promoting environmental stewardship for future generations.
Meteorology
The Meteorology degree program is designed for students who wish to receive a comprehensive education for the purpose of research into the dynamics of the Earth's atmosphere, weather analysis, and weather forecasting. This science includes a study of the impact of air pollution on people and the environment, the threat of changing climate due to global warming, severe weather and world climates.
The Meteorology program philosophy seeks to develop in the student an appreciation of the Earth's fragile atmosphere through education and understanding of the Earth's atmosphere. The student learns to critically analyze and evaluate the interactions of the atmosphere with the oceans and biosphere, recognize the problems and issues of local and regional air pollution, the profound implications and long-term effects of global warming on the planet, the effects of severe weather, and the long-term effects human impact on weather and climate. The program offers the student the knowledge and skills to investigate adverse human impact on weather and climate and recognize how to remediate or avoid these conditions to support the needs and requirements of all life on our planet. The spirit of Christian service is promoted by providing the student the intellectual tools necessary for making sound scientific decisions and ethical judgments and thus become enlightened citizens in society. Experiences in research activities through course work, seminars and internships also promote within each student self-realization and spiritual guidance acquired through independent work, volunteered endeavors, and cooperative learning.
Geology
The Geology minor requires 20 hours of course work. It was designed to give prepare students for future work in geology, whether in their careers or graduate school. It prepares students by supplying a good foundation and work in important areas of intersection with Geology, such as water, the environment and soil.
Physics
The Minor in Physics program is designed to enhance students who major in other subject areas, especially in mathematics, sciences and engineering. Please see the respective page for program requirements.