The major in Environmental Sciences provides an in-depth foundation in environmental concepts as well as an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of the field. Students may perform independent study (BIOL-490: Independent Study in Biology) during their junior or senior year under the direction of a department member, an established scientist or a physician at a graduate school or major research center. Major students who meet academic qualifications are encouraged to participate in the Biology Departmental Honors Program, which provides greater challenges.