Why study Environmental Science at MC?
Today’s complex environmental problems require a new, interdisciplinary approach that integrates knowledge from many fields, including biology, chemistry and the earth sciences. Through a combination of laboratory-based and field-based research, Environmental Science majors develop a holistic understanding of the processes that drive environmental issues. The Environmental Science major at Maryville College is designed to provide students with a strong scientific skillset that enables them to tackle diverse environmental challenges.
The College’s proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (the most biodiverse park in the National Park System) and its partnerships with related local, state and federal entities gives students unique opportunities for research, internships, practicums and other real-world experiences. Students also benefit from learning opportunities made possible by the College Woods, a 140-acre protected and managed multi-use forest, which is located inside Maryville College’s 263-acre campus.
In 2023, Maryville College announced a special partnership with the nearby city of Townsend to establish a four-year study of the water quality of Little River within the city limits. The project’s primary objectives are to establish a baseline of stream health and to monitor the long-term health of the river.
Meet a Current Scot
Madalyn McCall
Hometown: Highland, Illinois
Madalyn was drawn to MC for the women’s soccer team, the Division of Natural Sciences and the College’s proximity to the Smoky Mountains. As an Environmental Science major, she loves learning about the Earth’s natural process and hopes “to pursue a career that utilizes GIS (Geographical Information System) and mapping systems.” This past summer, Madalyn interned with the St. Louis County (Missouri) Department of Transportation, assisting with GIS as an engineering aide.
As for her MC experiences, Madalyn appreciates the small class sizes and how they provide students with one-on-one support from professors and peers. As a member of the women’s soccer team she said: “I have loved the community it has brought me.”
Meet a Recent Grad
Justice Williams ’23
Currently: Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Environmental Science at Florida Gulf Coast University
Coming to MC with an interest in veterinary medicine, Justice decided on Environmental Science after being exposed to different fields within STEM through the Scots Science Scholars workshops.
During her time at MC, Justice completed two research experience undergraduate (REU) programs. “The combination of these laboratory experiences helped strengthen my confidence in working independently in the lab and my problem-solving skills,” she said.
In 2024, she worked as a sea turtle research intern on Florida’s Keewaydin Island, studying nesting turtles and their hatchlings. “I am passionate about pursuing a career that allows me to work outdoors and engage with nature,” she said.
