Our courses are very hands-on and incorporate endless opportunities for experiential learning in the environmental sciences.
About Our Program
There are several pathways within the environmental science major alone. Both the soil science and conservation agriculture and environmental sustainability concentrations include a mix of basic science and math classes, and a wide range of courses related to the environmental science major. We emphasize mastery of the core disciplinary areas, leadership, communication skills, and the ability to work in a diverse, global environment. Employers regard our students as “job-ready” due to our boots-on-the-ground approach and the hands-on opportunities available through our student organizations. Additionally, our program is considered to be transfer-friendly, with many students transferring from community colleges and other majors.
Environmental Science Pathways
Environmental Science (general degree) – Minor in Watershed
Designed for students who want to pursue a career in environment and natural resources—stormwater planning, environmental monitoring and planning, watershed and water quality, and environmental education. Likely employers are local, state and federal departments of environment; Natural Resources Conservation Service; agricultural extension; and environmental engineering firms. Many graduates go on to graduate programs at UT and beyond. Students complete requirements for certification for Fundamentals of Soil Science (Soil Science Society of America).
Soil Science Concentration – Minor in Watershed
Designed for students who want to pursue a career in soils—planning, classification, management, erosion control, fertility, etc. Likely employers are the Natural Resources Conservation Service, agricultural extension, engineering firms, and construction companies. Many graduates go on to graduate programs at UT and beyond. Students complete requirements for certification for Fundamentals of Soil Science (Soil Science Society of America).
Conservation Agriculture and Environmental Sustainability Concentration – Minor in Watershed
Designed for students who want to pursue a career in international agriculture, become a certified crop consultant, or start their own sustainable farm. Likely employers are Peace Corps, Natural Resources Conservation Service, agricultural extension, and the local community or school garden programs. Students complete a 1-3 credit internship on a sustainable or community farm.
Environmental Science Degree
With a mix of science and technology, the environmental science program provides a strong, broad background in the natural sciences. The degree emphasizes human impacts on the long-term use and productivity of land and water resources, as well as the tools used in the management of these resources. The curriculum provides a solid foundation in the collection and analysis of the information required to characterize resource conservation problems and to make sound resource use decisions. Directed technical electives allow the students to concentrate in an area of interest. Students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to compete for career opportunities in government, environmental consulting firms, public health services, environmental research laboratories, and agricultural production, while also gaining the theoretical training necessary for continuing on for advanced degrees in a variety of environmentally related fields.
Take a look at the 2025-2026 Academic Course Catalog.
Environmental and Soil Sciences Club
The mission of the Environmental and Soil Sciences Club is to create an open environment for students to enhance their education and engage in activities in the environmental and soil sciences. This mission is executed through the following objectives: 1. Create networking opportunities for students to meet local professionals. 2. Foster social interaction and collaboration among the various environmental- and soil science-related degree programs at the UT Knoxville. 3. Gain valuable experience in the industry and give back to the community through participation in relevant community service projects and public education. 4. Promote and grow the environmental science program.
Advisor:
Soil Vols
The UT Knoxville Soil Judging Team, or “Soil Vols,” compete in judging competitions all over the country. During these competitions, the team collectively judges everything from soil profile to site classification and soil morphology. In spring 2025, the Soil Vols placed third at the national collegiate soil judging contest. This student organization is an incredible opportunity for environmental science students, particularly those with a soil science concentration, to gain practical experience and network with professionals in the soil science field.
Advisor:
Have questions? Please reach out!
Jared Mayberry
Student Success Advisor, Environmental Science
2621 Morgan Circle Drive
Morgan Hall, Room 224B
tel. 865-974-1111
email: jmaybe10@utk.edu
Sean Schaeffer
Professor, Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science
Environmental and Soil Science Undergraduate Program Coordinator
2506 EJ Chapman Drive
tel. 865-974-7266
email: sschaef5@utk.edu