On Earth Day, the Horned Frog community is reminded of the important of sustainability as a global responsibility and as a value on campus. At TCU, students learn about environmental stewardship through hands-on implementation. Through innovative programs in environmental and sustainability science and Earth systems science, TCU empowers students to become passionate problem solvers, dedicated researchers and ethical leaders committed to protecting our planet.
A Hands-On Approach to Sustainability Education
TCU’s Environmental and Sustainability Science (ENSC) program takes an interdisciplinary approach to tackling today’s most pressing environmental challenges. Rooted in project-based learning, the program emphasizes real-world application of classroom concepts, community engagement and environmental advocacy.
“Our department places a huge emphasis on project-based learning,” says Emma Taylor ’25, who will be graduating with a B.S. in Environmental and Sustainability Science.
“From writing up compliance audits and doing fieldwork at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden to site visits to water treatment plants, I feel prepared to enter the workforce and apply what I have learned here at TCU to continue to analyze, educate, and advocate for the planet.”
The program’s partnership with local organizations and use of Fort Worth as a living laboratory allows students to understand how environmental science plays out in the real-world.
Fieldwork That Makes a Difference
Research plays a critical role across environmental programs at TCU, giving students like Reagan Spickard ’27 the chance to directly impact their community. As a biology and psychology double major on the pre-med track, Reagan recalls a Saturday morning spent collecting sediment and surface water from Fort Worth's Trinity River as part of his aquatic toxicology research.
“Despite the mosquitoes, humid climate, quicksand-like mud and high UV index, there was something beautiful about this experience,” Reagan reflects.
“To go out into the Fort Worth community, a city I have quickly grown to love, and conduct research that could improve the ecological health of our city is a blessing I could have never envisioned.”
That spirit of collaboration and mentorship is central to the sciences at TCU.
“Some of my favorite memories of college will be times spent with professors, upperclassmen and first-years when this fountain of mentorship flowed most fervently.”
Understanding The Changing Planet
For students who want to dive deep into the interactions among Earth’s physical, chemical and biological systems, Earth Systems Science (ESS) offers a rigorous and inspiring academic path. The ESS program combines geology, environmental science and geospatial technology to provide students with an integrated understanding of how our planet works and they we can better protect it.
Amanda Whitley ’25 highlights how the small department size has created a uniquely supportive and collaborative learning environment.
“Through this program, I have been afforded countless opportunities for research, hands-on field and lab experience and supportive mentorship through the department’s faculty and staff,” she explains.
Amanda's focus in geospatial technology led her to earn a GIS Certificate, giving her the skills to analyze environmental data and contribute meaningfully to sustainability efforts through research and advocacy.
“My experiences as an Earth systems science student at TCU have inspired me to continue my academic journey at the graduate level. The student resources and devoted faculty do an excellent job at preparing students for success - both in pursuing higher education and in their future careers.”
A Community That Cares
Whether students are studying the sustainability of urban green spaces, modeling climate systems or analyzing water quality in local rivers, one thing is clear: TCU’s environmental programs are shaping the next generation of Earth advocates.
Earth Day at TCU is not just a celebration. Rather, it is a reflection of daily life on campus. Through hands-on learning, cutting-edge research and an unwavering commitment to sustainability, TCU students are proving that Horned Frogs don’t just wear purple, but they live green.
Macy Bayer ’28 studies journalism and marketing at TCU with a minor in political science. She is a member of TCU’s John V. Roach Honors College and is from Muenster, Texas. Macy is a social media and marketing intern for the Office of Admission.