Center for Sustainability, Ecology, and Chemistry

Connect science, society, and sustainability.

Driven by the urgent need to address environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, climate change, and social inequity, our Center integrates the disciplines of Sustainability, Ecology, Ecosystem Management, and Chemistry to investigate the complex interconnections between natural systems and human societies to foster a more resilient and sustainable future.

Our students are ...

Curious, active learners who enjoy hands-on study
Experimenters and hypothesis testers
Systems-thinkers who look at all aspects of an issue to find solutions
Changemakers who challenge assumptions and limitations
Focused on making a positive difference in the world 

What you can study:

  • Chemistry 
  • Ecology 
  • Ecosystem Management 
  • Sustainability 

What you’ll do: Immerse yourself in hands-on learning experiences including learning how to conduct scientific research in the field and laboratory; engage in land stewardship activities like prescribed burns and ecosystem restoration; lead campus sustainability initiatives, including permaculture and native landscaping; use design as a tool for imagining an ecologically and justice-oriented future. 

Where you’ll learn:

  • State-of-the-art Science Center with tech-optimized classrooms, labs, student workspaces, research greenhouse, and active aviary  
  • 2,600-acre campus including native grasslands, wetlands, oak-hickory forests, ponds, streams, and more. 
  • Newly installed 2 MW solar array with pollinator-friendly habitat 
  • Arboretum, food forest, community vegetable farm, and apple orchard 
  • Advanced research labs, including instrumental and organic chemistry, genetics, soil and water, and microscope technology 

Unique learning opportunities:

  • Build a career-enhancing network through internships, professional conferences, leadership opportunities, and active and intentional alumni connections 
  • Study plant and animal biodiversity in Great Smoky Mountain National Park 
  • Travel and volunteer with the Wider Caribbean Sea Turtle Conservation Network  
  • Study abroad on student-centered trips in the high Himalayas 
  • Compete nationally with our award-winning Solar Car team  
  • Gain real-world experience working with partners like the Saint Louis Zoo, Missouri Botanical Garden, Midwest Climate Collaborative, Konza Prairie Biological Station, and the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center 

Find out more about our learning community, coursework, and faculty.