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Environmental Health and Conservation Major (BS)

Undergraduate Program On Campus

What You'll Learn

Are you awed by the vibrant life, color, and beauty of the earth? Do you see the hand of God in his creation, and do you have a deep desire to care for it? We do, too.

We are motivated by this simple idea—that the health and well-being of both humans and the environment are deeply interconnected.

At Calvin, you’ll find a passionate group of faculty and students who are already at work with initiatives like Plaster Creek Stewards and the Calvin Environmental Assessment Program. You’ll do meaningful, résumé-building research on topics like stream restoration, invasive plants and species, environmental threats, and more. With all of the rich outdoor environments that Michigan has to offer, you’ll have a place to begin caring for and to call your own.

What Makes This Program Great

  • Two paths: Choose the area of focus that best fits your career goals: Ecology and Management or One Health. Each will prepare you to promote ecological health from a unique perspective.
  • A deeper purpose: We don’t stop at the mechanics of environmental science. Instead, you’ll dig deep into questions involving faith, ethics, conservation, and more.
  • Just the right size: We’re small enough to be a tight-knit community and big enough to receive funding for advanced, specialized equipment. That means you’ll get access to personalized faculty support, smaller classes, and cutting-edge technology.
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Explore sustainability and conservation at Calvin

There are plenty of opportunities to dig into the real work of conservation and sustainability at Calvin.

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Watershed at Plaster Creek Stewards

Plaster Creek Stewards

Explore, preserve, and restore the health and beauty of a local watershed in west Michigan.

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Forest path

Ecosystem Preserve and Native Gardens

The preserve’s 100+ acres of native plants and natural habitats offer boundless opportunities to explore and connect with nature.

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Students research at a dune

First-year Research at Lake Michigan Dunes

Investigate fascinating questions about Lake Michigan coastal dunes, and contribute to real-world conservation efforts.

Faculty

David Koetje

Professor, Department Co-Chair
Professor Biology Department, Calvin College, 2008 – present  Associate Professor Biology Department, Calvin College, 1998 – 2008 Assistant Professor Biology Department, SUNY