Program structure

The B.S. in Environmental Science and Geography at UMBC is structured to provide students with a strong foundation in environmental science, physical geography, and geospatial analysis. The program requires a total of 63 credits, combining core courses, advanced electives, and supporting coursework.

Core Requirements (39 Credits)

• Foundational Courses:

  • GES 102 - People, Place, and Environment
  • GES 110 - Physical Geography
  • GES 120 - Environmental Science and Conservation
  • GES 286 - Exploring the Environment: A Geo-Spatial Perspective

• Intermediate Core:

  • GES 308 - Ecology
  • GES 310 - Geomorphology or GES 311 - Weather and Climate
  • GES 386 - Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Elective Requirements (15 Credits)

• Advanced courses, with at least two at the 400-level, from topics such as:
  • Conservation Biology
  • Landscape Ecology
  • Water Resources
  • Environmental Policy
  • Urban Environmental Systems

Supporting Coursework (24 Credits)

• Mathematics:
  • MATH 151 - Calculus and Analytic Geometry I
  • STAT 350 - Statistics for the Biological Sciences or equivalent
• Natural Sciences:
  • BIOL 141 - Foundations of Biology: Cells, Energy, and Organisms
  • CHEM 101 and CHEM 102 - Principles of Chemistry I and II
  • PHYS 111 or PHYS 121 - Basic or Introductory Physics

Additional Requirements

• A minimum grade of "C" is required for all courses counted toward the major.
• Independent study and internship credits are not eligible for fulfilling elective requirements.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

• Fieldwork and Research: Opportunities to work in UMBC's Conservation and Environmental Research Areas (CERA).
• Internships: Access to environmental research centers like the Center for Urban Environmental Research and Education (CUERE).

Accelerated Pathway

Students may pursue an accelerated program, allowing shared coursework between the bachelor’s and master’s degrees to expedite their academic journey.

Learn More: UMBC Environmental Science and Geography Program

Fees and Funding

The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) provides detailed information on tuition, fees, and financial aid options for prospective and current students.

Tuition and Fees:

Bases on the 2023-2024 academic year, the estimated annual costs for full-time undergraduate students are:

• Maryland Residents:

  • Tuition and Fees: $12,952
  • Housing and Food: $14,204
  • Total: $27,156

• Out-of-State Students:

  • Tuition and Fees: $30,308
  • Housing and Food: $14,204
  • Total: $44,512

These figures are based on full-time enrollment (12 or more credits) and on-campus living. Additional expenses may include books, transportation, and personal costs.

Financial Aid and Scholarships:

UMBC offers various financial aid options, including:

• Merit-Based Scholarships: Incoming first-year and transfer students are automatically considered for merit scholarships if they apply by the specified deadlines.

• Need-Based Aid: Determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). UMBC's FAFSA school code is 002105.

• Scholarship Retriever: An online tool listing institutional, merit, departmental, and external scholarships. Students are encouraged to regularly check for new opportunities.

Application Process:

To apply for financial aid:

1. Complete the FAFSA: Available at studentaid.gov. Use UMBC's school code: 002105.

2. Explore Scholarships: Utilize UMBC's Scholarship Retriever to find and apply for scholarships.

3. Contact Financial Aid Office: For personalized assistance, reach out to UMBC's Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.

For the most current information on tuition, fees, and financial aid, please visit UMBC's Financial Aid and Scholarships website.

Scholarship Guidance

The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) offers various scholarship opportunities for students pursuing a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Environmental Science and Geography. These scholarships are designed to support academic excellence and provide financial assistance.

1. Merit-Based Scholarships

• Eligibility: Incoming first-year and transfer students demonstrating outstanding academic achievements.

• Award Amount: Varies based on the scholarship.

• Application Process: Students are automatically considered upon applying for admission by the specified deadlines. No separate application is required.

2. Scholars Programs

UMBC offers competitive scholars programs that combine financial awards with special opportunities for research, seminars, internships, and more. Scholarships range from $5,000 to $22,000 per year. Application deadlines and processes vary by program.

3. Departmental Scholarships

The Department of Geography & Environmental Systems may offer scholarships specific to students within the program. Students are encouraged to consult with academic advisors and check departmental communications for available opportunities.

4. External Scholarships

Students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities through online searches, their country's embassy in the U.S., or educational advising centers such as EducationUSA.

Application Tips:

• Early Application: Apply for admission by the priority deadlines to ensure consideration for merit-based scholarships.

• Regular Updates: Frequently check Scholarship Retriever for new scholarship opportunities and deadlines.

• Personal Statements: Craft compelling personal statements that highlight your academic achievements, leadership experiences, and commitment to environmental science and geography.

For detailed information on scholarships, eligibility criteria, and application procedures, please visit UMBC's Scholarships page.

By actively exploring these opportunities, students can secure financial support to enhance their educational experience in the Environmental Science and Geography program at UMBC.

Admission Requirements

To pursue a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Environmental Science and Geography at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), applicants must meet the university's general admission criteria. The Department of Geography & Environmental Systems does not impose additional requirements for this major.

1. University Admission Requirements:

• Application: Complete and submit the Common Application along with all required materials.

• Academic Records: Provide official high school transcripts. UMBC considers the rigor of coursework and overall GPA in its evaluation.

• Standardized Tests: Submission of SAT or ACT scores is optional. If provided, these scores will be considered as part of the holistic review process.

• Letters of Recommendation: Not required but can be submitted to support the application.

• Personal Statement: An essay is required, allowing applicants to highlight their experiences, goals, and interest in the program.

2. Application Deadlines:

• Fall Enrollment:
  • Early Action: November 1
  • Regular Decision: February 1
• Spring Enrollment:
  • Priority Admission: October 15
  • Regular Admission: December 1

Applying by the Early Action deadline is recommended for priority consideration for scholarships and special programs.

3. Additional Considerations:

• Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB): UMBC awards credit for qualifying AP and IB exam scores. Applicants should submit official scores for evaluation.

• Transfer Students: Applicants with previous college coursework should provide official transcripts. UMBC evaluates transfer credits on a course-by-course basis.

For detailed information on the application process and requirements, please visit UMBC's Undergraduate Admissions page.

By meeting these requirements, prospective students can embark on a comprehensive educational journey in environmental science and geography at UMBC.

Application Procedure

To apply for the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Environmental Science and Geography at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), follow these steps:

1. Complete the UMBC Undergraduate Application:

• Application Portal: Submit your application through the Common Application.

• Required Materials:

  • Official high school transcripts
  • Personal statement
  • Optional: SAT or ACT scores
  • Optional: Letters of recommendation

2. Indicate Your Major:

• On the application, select "Environmental Science and Geography" as your intended major.

3. Application Deadlines:

• Fall Semester:
  • Early Action: November 1
  • Regular Decision: February 1
• Spring Semester:
  • Priority Admission: October 15
  • Regular Admission: December 1

Applying by the Early Action deadline is recommended for priority scholarship consideration.

4. Review Admission Requirements:

• Academic Records: A strong high school GPA with a rigorous curriculum.
• Standardized Tests: UMBC has a test-optional policy; submitting SAT or ACT scores is optional.
• Personal Statement: An essay highlighting your interest in environmental science and geography.
• Letters of Recommendation: Not required but can strengthen your application.

5. Additional Information:

• Advanced Placement (AP) Credits: UMBC awards credit for qualifying AP exam scores.
• International Baccalaureate (IB) Credits: Credit is awarded for higher-level IB exam scores.
• Transfer Students: Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.

For detailed information on the application process, visit UMBC's Undergraduate Admissions page.

By following these steps, you can apply to UMBC's B.S. in Environmental Science and Geography program and embark on a path toward addressing environmental challenges.