Your career in the environment starts here.

Who are we? What do we do?


The Natural History & Sustainability (NHS) Program emphasizes the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to tackle the major environmental challenges of the 21st century. The interdepartmental program offers career- and transfer-driven coursework in three tracks: (1) Natural History and Resources; (2) Conservation and Resource Management; and (3) Urban Agroecology. It is ideal for students interested in the basic science of the natural world and its effect on human society, and provides training for the following jobs: Park ranger, naturalist, field technician, urban farmer, food production/systems analyst, water quality technician, environmental consultant, interpretive aide, environmental educator, science communicator.

How do you get started? It’s easy–Merritt is a community college, so all you have to do is fill out an application and then sign up for a class. If you decide you want to pursue of our Certificates of Achievement, there is more detail on these programs above.


Want More Information?

Interested in a career in the environmental field? Read our new FAQ to see if you’re a good fit for our program: NHS Interest FAQ. Or you can reach out and schedule a meeting with one of our program co-directors Greg Vose (gvose@peralta.edu) or Elizabeth Boegel (eboegel@peralta.edu).  

Follow us @NHSMerritt