Environmental Science

Fundamental Requirements

The Academy for Environmental Science integrates comprehensive environmental concepts with rigorous science and engineering practices. Students develop expertise in data analysis, scientific calculations, and information synthesis while exploring environmental systems, sustainability principles, and real-world ecological challenges through both theoretical study and hands-on field research.

Learning Experience

Students engage in diverse field work experiences ranging from nature walks and environmental journaling to wading in natural water bodies and visiting sewage treatment facilities. The program emphasizes authentic scientific investigation through data collection, analysis, and interpretation that mirrors professional environmental science practices.

Skills and Prerequisites for Success

Prospective students should be comfortable with scientific calculations and data analysis, capable of processing large amounts of information through various media formats, and able to synthesize complex information from multiple sources. The program requires individuals who can apply environmental concepts across diverse contexts and situations.

Important Considerations

• Science and Engineering Practices: Emphasis on authentic scientific methodology and data analysis techniques
• Calculation Skills: Proficiency in scientific calculations and mathematical applications in environmental contexts
• Information Processing: Ability to obtain and digest large amounts of information through text and multimedia sources
• Field Work Requirements: Participation in outdoor activities including nature walks, water sampling, and facility visits
• Data Synthesis: Skills in combining information from varied sources including field-collected data
• Concept Application: Ability to apply environmental principles across different scientific contexts
• Outdoor Conditions: Willingness to work in various weather conditions and natural environments
• Facility Visits: Comfort with visiting industrial sites such as sewage treatment plants for educational purposes

This program is ideal for students who are passionate about environmental issues, enjoy hands-on scientific investigation, and are prepared to engage in both classroom learning and authentic field research experiences.

Click HERE for the Academy Video!

Career Pathways in Environmental Science (include but are not limited to):

Natural Resources Systems: Cartographers ● Wildlife Managers ● Range Technicians ● Ecologists Park Mangers ● Environmental Interpreters ● Fish and Game Officers Loggers ● Forest Technicians ● Log Graders ● Pulp and Paper Manager Soil Geology Technician ● Geologists ● Mining Engineers Fisheries Technicians ● Water Monitoring Technician ● Hydrologists ● Fish Hatchery Manager Commercial Fishermen ● Fishing Vessel Operators ● Vessel Crew ●Agricultural Educator

Environmental Service Systems: Pollution Prevention and Control Managers ● Pollution Prevention and Control Technicians● Environmental Sampling and Analysis Scientists/Technicians● Health and Safety Sanitarians● Environmental Compliance Assurance Managers● Hazardous Materials Handlers ● Hazardous Materials Technicians / Managers● Water Environment Managers ● Water Quality Managers● Waste Water Managers● Toxicologists● Solid Waste Disposers / Recyclers● Solid Waste Technician● Solid Waste Managers ● Solid Waste Specialists●Agricultural Educator

Governance: Environmental Law ● Lobbyist ● Policy Advisor

Science & Math: Biologist ● Conservation Scientist ● Ecologist ● Geologist ● Environmental Scientist ●  Hydrologist ● Marine Scientist ● Mannalosgist ● Marine Scientist ● meteorologist ● Mycologist ●  Nanobiologost ● Oceanographer ● Protozoologist ● Quality-control Scientist ● Research Technician Science Teacher ●  Zoologist 

Seniors in the Academy for Environmental Science have completed internships with (including but not limited to):

9th Grade

• Introduction to Environmental Systems
• CP Biology or Honors Biology
• Academy Honors English
• Algebra 1 OR Honors Geometry
• World History CP or Honors
• Physical Education/Health
• Spanish/French/ASL
• Financial Literacy Elective

10th Grade

• Introduction to Ecological Design (semester)
• Environmental Law and Policy (semester)
• Chemistry CP or Honors Chemistry
• Academy Honors English
• Geometry OR Honors Algebra II 
• U.S. History I, CP or Honors
• Physical Education/Health
• Spanish/French/ASL
• VPA Elective

 11th Grade

• Climate Change Biology (semester)
• Environmental Research Design (semester)
• AP Physics I or Physics CP
• Academy Honors English 
• Algebra II OR Honors Pre-Calculus
• U.S. History II CP, Honors or AP US History
• Physical Education/Health
• Spanish/French/ASL

12th Grade:

Senior Year College Option: Providing students meet the academic criteria, they may attend County College of Morris, Ramapo College or Kean University for all academic and occupational courses and earn up to 22 credits, paid for by Morris County Vocational School District

Continue at Jefferson High School for advanced courses/projects including:

• Research & Field Work in Environmental Science/ Global Issues in Environmental Sustainability
• AP Environmental Science, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, or AP Physics II
• Honors Academy English or AP English
• Calculus or AP Stats
• AP U.S. History, Economics or Business
• Physical Education/Health
• Spanish/French/ASL

 Structured Learning Experience (SLE): Required 120-hour Internship