College of Science, Technology, and Environmental Studies(CSTES)

The College of Science, Technology, and Environmental Studies(CSTES) program at DPHU offers you interdisciplinary perspectives on the complex relationship between science and technology and our health, our families and communities, and the natural world.

In either program major—Environmental Studies or Science, Technology, and Society—you’ll take sciences classes, doing hands-on investigation, observing nature, and applying the principles of research to determine how things work. You’ll also take humanities classes, discovering and discussing world-changing ideas, while challenging assumptions through creative and critical thinking assignments.

Environmental Studies

Environmental Studies (ENV) majors focus intently on the environment and our interaction with it. They also gain specific knowledge in biology, chemistry, communication, and the humanities. Each completes a community-based internship or practical experience related to the environment and sustainability.

Science, Technology, And Society

Science, Technology, and Society (STS) majors examine how science impacts our world and how the economic, political, and cultural motives of society influence science. They graduate with
 deep interdisciplinary knowledge, intellectual flexibility, and communication and problem-solving skills crucial to any career.

Career Opportunities

With the rapid increase in urbanization and globalization, STES students will find their knowledge and skills to be in high demand. While many career opportunities are available to scientists and technologists, increasingly there is demand for non-scientists who have some training within science and technology but who also have an understanding of the institutions of science and their place in modern society. Think for instance about the many complex philosophical, political, economic, and legal issues surrounding science, technology, and the environment: What kinds of science should be taught in our schools? How should environmental resources be protected? Who should pay for scientific research? What if any restrictions should be placed upon research in human genetics? How can we better quantify and place value on ecosystem services? How should we regulate speech and commerce on the Internet? How do we develop policies that will lower greenhouse gases? These are questions that are faced by professionals in business, government, the law, medicine and other areas. Facing them requires the kind of multi-dimensional perspective of STES.

In this scientific and technological world, majoring or minoring in STS or ENV provides an excellent foundation for many careers. STES students acquire a broad view of the institutions, practice, and culture of science, technology and the environment from inside and out. They are uniquely qualified for the increasing range of jobs that involve contact between professional science and the wider culture:

  • Careers and further training in science communication: in print, radio and television broadcasting, in museums or science centers, or in education.
  • Policy-related or commercial posts involving research funding and administration, regulatory or public interest responsibilities, environmental protection, technology transfer, natural resource management, and government service on national and international levels.
  • Graduate studies in science and technology and environmental studies. Two recent grads are working toward advanced degrees at the University of Pittsburgh and Indiana University.
  • Broader careers in finance, law, commerce, conservation, and many other spheres.
  • Careers in public health: disease prevention, epidemiology, education, communication.

The Excellence in Science, Technology and Society Award honors students who best represent the goal of the STS Program—to examine how science and technology interact with society. Excelling in science as well as in the humanities and social sciences, these students apply insights and knowledge gained from interdisciplinary education to understanding and solving public problems.