Bachelor of Science in Ecosystem Science & Stewardship

The Ecosystem Science & Stewardship (BS) is offered at:

• Breckenridge: Mostly in-person
• Leadville: Mostly in-person
• Spring Valley at Glenwood Springs: Mostly in-person
• Steamboat Springs: Mostly in-person
• Vail Valley at Edwards: Mostly in-person

Students pursuing bachelor’s degrees at CMC can enhance their education with a Minor in Ecosystem Science & Stewardship. This 15-credit minor is available at the same campus locations that offer the full ESS program—see the "Locations" drop-down above to explore your options.

Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs) articulate what students are expected to learn while earning their degree. PSLOs reinforce important academic and professional skills and provide the college an opportunity to evaluate its performance in preparing students for future study or entry into the workforce.

Upon completing the Bachelor of Science in Ecosystem Science & Stewardship, successful students will be able to:

1. Ecosystems - Demonstrate broad conceptual understanding of the components and fundamental processes in terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems.

a. Describe the structure, function, and composition of different ecosystems.
b. Explain ecosystem dynamics, interactions, feedback, and processes (e.g., nutrient cycling, energy transfer, and evolution)
c. Explain ecosystem responses to natural and human-induced disturbance and global change.
d. Describe spatial and temporal patterns in ecosystems.

2. Ecosystem Stewardship - Explain how the stewardship of ecosystems are administered and regulated by environmental policy and law.

a. Describe environmental laws, policies, planning, and assessment for public land and resources.
b. Relate ecosystem stewardship to conservation biology and ecological restoration goals, priorities and practice.
c. Apply current management practices and processes employed in natural resource conservation, restoration, and protection.
d. Demonstrate understanding of the role and importance of sociology, economics, and political science in ecosystem stewardship.

3. Methods of inquiry - Apply scientific methods and modes of inquiry, including an understanding of traditional ways of knowing, in ecosystem observations,
investigations, and management.

a. Demonstrate understanding of the philosophy of science and scientific and traditional ways of knowing.
b. Perform scientific investigations or inquiries.
c. Demonstrate proficiency in finding, reading, comprehending, and integrating primary scientific literature.
d. Evaluate contemporary issues, debates, and challenges relevant to ecosystem science.

4. Human dimension & ethics - Describe how and why human activities impact ecosystems and the importance of ethics in research and management.

a. Apply ethical principles to issues, decisions and professional practice.
b. Implement ethical practices in scientific research and ecosystem stewardship.
c. Relate principles of traditional knowledge to land management and stakeholder collaboration.
d. Describe trade-offs, threats, consequences, and opportunities associated with human activities that influence the trajectory of our planet.

5. Application & technical skills - Demonstrate technical skills, competencies, and knowledge needed to perform practical tasks in applied ecosystem science.

a. Show proficiency in ecological field methods and usage of standard field and laboratory instruments and equipment.
b. Use appropriate methodology, tools, and software when collecting, analyzing, interpreting, and cataloging scientific data.
c. Use technology, such as geographic information systems, or computer software, to assist in scientific inquiry, problem solving, and data
management.
d. Demonstrate competency in designing, proposing, implementing, and presenting scientific projects and research.
e. Perform research and writing across the curriculum.

6. Personal/non-technical skills - Demonstrate self-awareness and effective communication, collaborative, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills in the classroom and workplace environments.

a. Demonstrate effective communication with diverse audiences, stakeholders, and collaborators.
b. Apply reflective practice to improve learning and work performance.
c. Display problem-solving skills and techniques.
d. Display capacity to participate in research both independently and as a member of a diverse multidisciplinary team.
e. Recognize the importance of justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion in the classroom and workplace environments.

Careers in Ecosystem Science & Stewardship

Many ecosystem scientists with a bachelor’s degree or higher work for non-profit, private, or governmental agencies, or in secondary or higher education. Job titles vary depending on education and experience; some examples include biological technician, ecologist, forester, soil conservationist, hydrologist, botanist, wildlife biologist, environmental consultant, or natural resource manager.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for fields in ecosystems science and stewardship is positive.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment is expected to grow for many job types between 2020 and 2030.

• Biological technician – 7 percent growth
• Environmental scientist – 8 percent growth
• Conservation Scientists and Foresters – 7 percent growth
• Hydrologist – 6 percent growth
• Natural Sciences Manager – 6 percent growth
• Wildlife Biologist – 5 percent growth

Earnings Potential

• Biological technician – Median annual wage $46,430 in May 2020
• Environmental scientist – Median annual wage $73,720 in May 2020
• Conservation Scientists and Foresters – Median annual wage $64,020 in May 2020
• Hydrologist – Median annual wage $84,040
• Natural Sciences Manager – Median annual wage $137,940 in May 2020
• Wildlife Biologist – Median annual wage $66,350 in May 2020