The programs of the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences are designed to provide a background in the earth and life sciences within the context of a liberal arts education and to prepare majors for occupational goals and advanced training. Courses serve students in the basic liberal arts program, those who plan to teach in elementary or secondary schools and students who are interested in scientific research. The department offers majors in Biology and Environmental Science and minors in Biology, Environmental Studies and Geology.
Facilities
The Department’s courses and seven educational and research laboratories are housed in the newly renovated Bareis Hall and Gillmor Science Hall, which opened in January 2005. In addition, the entire third floor of Gillmor Hall is home to our internationally renowned water quality laboratory that was designated by Congress in 2002 as the National Center for Water Quality Research. The Center employees four full-time Ph.D.-credentialed researchers.
Natural Areas
Heidelberg administers four natural areas that total nearly 100 acres and are an average distance of 15 miles from campus. In addition, state-managed river and marsh preserves are within a half-hour’s drive. Heidelberg’s natural areas represent four different types of woodlands. Also readily available to students for field study is Rock Creek, which flows through the main part of campus.