Connect science, society, and sustainability.

Immerse yourself in hands-on learning experiences including learning how to conduct scientific research in the field and laboratory; engage in on- and off- campus stewardship activities like prescribed burns and ecosystem restoration; lead sustainability initiatives, including permaculture and native landscaping; use design as a tool for imagining an ecologically and justice-oriented future.

Driven by the urgent need to address environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, climate change, and social inequity, our Center integrates the disciplines of Sustainability, Ecology, Ecosystem Management, and Chemistry to investigate the complex interconnections between natural systems and human societies to foster a more resilient and sustainable future.

Fields of Study

Majors

Unique Learning Opportunities

Learning here is immersive, rigorous, and deeply connected to real ecosystems and real-world impact. You’ll study plant and animal biodiversity in places like Great Smoky Mountains National Park, participate in conservation and restoration efforts with organizations such as the Wider Caribbean Sea Turtle Conservation Network, and engage in field research that moves beyond the classroom into living systems. Not to mention our 2,600-acre campus; a living laboratory just steps from your classroom.

From nationally competitive teams like the award-winning Solar Car program to international study experiences in the high Himalayas, your education is shaped by authentic scientific work, global collaboration, and professional-level research. You’ll build career networks through internships, conferences, and partnerships with institutions including the Saint Louis Zoo, Missouri Botanical Garden, Midwest Climate Collaborative, Konza Prairie Biological Station, and the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center—so your learning is not only hands-on, but truly consequential.

Where You'll Learn

State-of-the-art Science Center with tech-optimized classrooms, labs, student workspaces, research greenhouse, and active aviary
2,600-acre campus including native grasslands, wetlands, oak-hickory forests, ponds, streams, and more
2 MW solar array with pollinator-friendly habitat
Arboretum, food forest, community vegetable farm, and apple orchard
Advanced research labs, including instrumental and organic chemistry, genetics, soil and water, and microscope technology