Environmental Science investigates the systems in the world around us. Your studies will meet the requirements for entry into conservation, research careers, and agricultural science, or work as a teacher, writer, scientist or researcher.
Degree Options

Environmental Science Designation

AS
Associate of Science Degree | 60 Credits
Transfer to Metropolitan State University of Denver
Hands-on Learning
Easily Transfer to a Four-Year College or University

Environmental Science investigates the systems in the world around us. Your studies will meet the requirements for entry into conservation, research careers, and agricultural science, or work as a teacher, writer, scientist, or researcher.

After you finish your Associate of Science (A.S.) degree at CCD, you can then transfer to a four-year college or university and continue working toward a bachelor’s degree. 

Spacious labs and modern equipment are all ready and available for students. Hands-on learning and small classroom size, as well as a strong tutoring program, make CCD the right choice.

CCD Environmental Science students in a lab
More Information About the Program

Academic support is provided through CCD's Excel Zone, which helps students succeed by offering a variety of learning opportunities. We are located on campus on the 4th floor of the Confluence building.

CCD Online offers fully online certificates and degrees, and individual online courses to help match your busy schedule. 

Your first step is to see if online learning is right for you. Online and hybrid environments offer much more flexibility but require more self-direction and self-discipline. Certain work habits, learning styles and skills contribute to a successful online or hybrid learning experience.

Online Experience Questions?
303.352.6785 | TLC@ccd.edu

This program is eligible for federal financial aid.

Your first step is to connect with the Financial Aid office to discover how you can afford college. Our dedicated staff and support services help you wade through all the legal language and get you past the first hurdle to completing your educational goals.

In addition, CCD has $1,000,000 available in scholarships. Learn More!

The Associate of Science degree in Environmental Science is designed for you to complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree and transfer to Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSUDenver) to complete a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science. This degree prepares you to transfer as a junior to MSUDenver and to work in areas such as zoology, conservation, hydrology, and teaching. It also gives you a strong foundation for seeking an advanced degree in environmental law or environmental engineering.

Please speak with your program chair regarding internship and research opportunities.

What Can I Do with My Major?

Employment of environmental science and protection technicians is projected to grow 12 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations.

An A.S. in environmental science sets the stage for a career in a number of areas, including the following:

  • Ecologist
  • Education
  • Environmental Attorney
  • Environmental Planner
  • Forest Ranger
  • Land Use Planning
  • Landfill Operation and Monitoring
  • Natural Resource Specialist
  • Outdoor Adventure Educator
  • State Park Resource Ecologist
  • Wildlife Biologist
  • Soil and Water Conservation

How Much Can I Expect to Earn?

The median annual wage for environmental science and protection technicians was $50,660 in May 2023.

The information provided here is by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Important Dates
Faculty & Staff
Fida Obeidi
Dean of Instruction, Health Sciences and STEM Pathway
Woman with mid length dark brown hair wearing a gold necklace and dark top
Hank Weigel
Associate Dean, Health Sciences and STEM
Timothy E. Benson
Department Chair & Associate Professor, Biology, Geology, & Environmental Science
Tim Benson
Fleur M. Ferro
Department Chair & Professor, Biology, Geology, & Environmental Science
Fleur Ferro
Dawn R. Cummings
Professor, Biology & Environmental Science
Petia G. Ouzounova
Academic Advisor
Petia Ouzounova
Terry S. Williams
Professor, Biology