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Environmental Science

Ready to step outside the classroom and invent a greener future? The Environmental Science and Agriculture program is your ultimate outdoor adventure! Combine biology, smart tech, and hands-on science to tackle big challenges like climate change, sustainable farming, and ecosystem protection. Working alongside awesome classmates and teachers, you’ll build sharp critical-thinking and problem-solving skills to help our world thrive. Environmental Science and Agriculture program prepares environmentally conscious leaders committed to supporting natural resources, solving environmental issues, and engaging in agricultural research and development.

 

Core  Experiences

  • Explore how environmental sciences power modern ecology, climate solutions, and smart agriculture
  • Analyze real environmental samples, design farm-tech systems, and present your findings
  • Connect with fellow creators in FFA, robotics-in-ag, and environmental clubs
  • Challenge your sustainability skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) competitions

 

Program Goals

  1. Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills
    Equip students with a strong academic and technical foundation in agricultural science and environmental systems. Emphasize scientific inquiry, problem-solving, and innovation through rigorous standards-based coursework. Foster leadership, communication, and teamwork skills essential for success in agricultural and related industries.
  2. Provide Hands-On, Real-World Experience
    Engage students in experiential learning through laboratory work, greenhouse and field projects, and agricultural technology applications. Offer opportunities for career-connected learning and research experiences to build practical skills and career readiness.
  3. Foster Career and College, Career and/or Community Pathways
    Support students in exploring and pursuing postsecondary education and careers in agriculture, environmental science, animal science, and agribusiness. Provide pathways for earning industry-recognized certifications, dual enrollment credit, and participation in student organizations to promote leadership and community engagement. Prepare students to contribute to sustainable agricultural innovation and environmental stewardship at the local, national, and global levels.

 

Application & Locations

Application: Criteria- and interest-based application

Schools:

  • Southern Region: Northwood (Agriculture focus)
  • Northern Region: Damascus (Horticulture focus)

Course Progression

Below is a sample sequence of courses for students enrolled in Environmental Science. Cells in orange are related to the program pathway. This is subject to change as the programs are developed.

Environmental Science & Horticulture (Damascus HS)

Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12

Environmental Science Biology

Honors Chemistry

AP Environmental Science

Science Elective

Horticulture Science 1

Horticulture Science 2

Horticulture Science 3

Career-Connected Learning, Dual Enrollment or Agricultural Business course

World Language World Language World Language or Elective World Language or Elective
U.S. History NSL Government World History Elective
English English English English
Math Math Math Math
Technology Education Elective Elective (PE, Fine Arts, or Health) Elective (PE, Fine Arts, or Health) Elective (PE, Fine Arts, or Health)

Environmental Science & Agriculture (Northwood HS)

Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12

Environmental Science Biology

Honors Chemistry

AP Environmental Science

Organic Chemistry and Science Elective

Agriculture Science 1

Agricultural Science–Crop Science 2

Agricultural Science–Crop Science 3

Agricultural Science Career-Connected Learning Employer-Driven Capstone 1

World Language World Language World Language or Elective World Language or Elective
U.S. History NSL Government World History Elective
English English English English
Math Math Math Math
Technology Education Elective Elective (PE or Fine Arts or Health) Elective (PE or Fine Arts or Health) Elective (PE or Fine Arts or Health)

Program Requirements

In addition to MCPS requirements for graduation, students must complete the following to remain enrolled in the Environmental Science Program and earn the related certificate:

  • Science (4 credits)
    • Environmental Science Biology
    • Honors Chemistry
    • AP Environmental Science
    • Organic Chemistry, Science Elective
  • Agriculture or Horticulture Science (4 credits)
    • Agriculture (Northwood)
      • Agriculture Science 1
      • Agriculture Science-Crop Science 2
      • Agriculture Science-Crop Science 3
      • Agricultural Science Career-Connected Learning Employer-Driven Capstone 1
    • Horticulture Science (Damascus)
      • Horticulture Science 1
      • Horticulture Science 2
      • Horticulture Science 3
      • Career-Connected Learning, Dual Enrollment, or Horticulture Business course