This course is the third and final science based CTE course in the three-year Marine Science California Partnership Academy program. Topics of this course will apply concepts of wildlife management, watershed resources, soil science and geology to understand conservation biology, environmental toxicology, and environmental justice. During the year, students will complete short term independent projects while also conducting a long-term capstone research project. Through both experiences, students will develop skills in inquiry, project management, leadership, communication, and presentation while practicing time management, data collection and data analysis.

Students enrolled in Environmental Field Studies develop an experimental design to carry out a capstone research project that integrates knowledge and skills from their previous courses, specifically Natural Resources 1 and 2. It will be a local site based project. They develop a project plan, write a grant proposal, implement plan, maintain records of data, and present findings to community members, teachers and peers at a symposium at the culmination of their investigation. The purpose of this is to apply acquired knowledge and hone skills in Natural Resource Management and acquire independent experience to be translated into internship experiences. Ultimately, students will have the opportunity to build the skills that they will need for both future employment and/or post-secondary education.