School of the Environment
The School of the Environment at Washington State University advances earth, environmental, and geosciences to better understand global ecology, ecosystem science, and sustainability of both the natural and human-built world.
We will provide you with technical knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to succeed in your chosen environmental career and help you make a difference in the real world.
- Learn and discover while exploring the outdoors
- Dig into diverse research opportunities
- Work alongside leading scientists and educators studying ecology, conservation science, climate change, and the geology and dynamics of Earth system processes.
- Launch your career with a strong foundation of education, practical experience, and field training.
Undergraduate Majors
Earth Science
Earth science reveals our planet’s amazing history and the powerful forces that shape it. Understanding how Earth’s systems operate over million-year time scales is fundamental for preparing against natural hazards and changing climate, and for the sustainable extraction of natural resources. The Earth Science program offers undergraduate and graduate degrees that prepare students for leading roles in exciting careers in science, industry, nonprofit organizations.
Environmental & Ecosystem Sciences
Solving today’s environmental problems requires a foundational understanding of environmental processes and societal interactions, along with the skills required to uncover and effectively articulate the complexities of our changing world. The Environmental and Ecosystem Science Programs (undergraduate and graduate) prepare students to become science-based leaders by developing necessary science, technical, and communication skills. Our research-focused graduate program uses personalized mentorship to develop science at the forefront of knowledge.
Forest Ecology & Management
Foresters and forest ecologists plan, maintain, and preserve forests and forest resources. The Forest Ecology and Management degree at WSU is an interdisciplinary program that prepares students to make a positive impact locally and globally by creating, managing, conserving and repairing forested ecosystems. The program builds on a strong foundation in science, with an emphasis on forest ecosystems and lots of hands-on experience in forest measurements and sampling.
Wildlife Ecology & Conservation Sciences
The Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Sciences program focuses on understanding the ecology, habitat, conservation and management of wild animals, combining field work with cutting-edge analytical techniques. This broad training provides graduate and undergraduate students the background to pursue exciting careers in wildlife management, conservation, consulting, and academia.
School of the Environment in the News
Aquatics Phenomics Research Center supercharges undergraduate research
This summer, students from around the country are at WSU to address some of the most pressing questions facing aquatic ecosystems, from disease outbreaks and environmental stress to improving the resilience of species that are vital to Washington’s economy, ecology, and heritage.
WSU professors forecast Columbia Basin water issues
WSU professors spoke with Oregon Public Broadcasting (OPB) about the 2026 draft water supply forecast for the Columbia Basin.
WSU’s Singh contributes to National Academies report on climate change, extreme weather
The warming climate fosters hotter temperatures, more intense storms, larger wildfires, and longer droughts, among other extremes. But how much does human-caused climate change influence a specific event such as a heat wave or storm?
‘Amazing moths’: Study pinpoints insect habitat that draws grizzlies to Glacier peaks
When grizzly bears clamber onto the talus slopes high in Glacier National Park, they’re searching for an abundant, fatty meal: army cutworm moths.