Program Overview

Environmental Sustainability Program

Overview

The Environmental Sustainability program at the University at Buffalo (UB) is designed to incorporate a strong foundation in the social sciences and humanities with a good foundation in the natural sciences. This program prepares students for work as environmental advocates and sustainability consultants for local, national, and international organizations.

What Will I Learn?

This program highlights experiential learning through field-based coursework, ecology expedition courses (national and international), and environmental internships. Students will learn how researchers are addressing climate change, how to improve recycling through economics, and how to promote sustainable fishing on the nearby Niagara River and Great Lakes. Electives based on specific interests and specialty tracks are also available.

Environmental Sustainability vs. Environmental Studies vs. Environmental Science

• Environmental Sustainability: The bachelor of arts degree (BA) is designed to incorporate a strong foundation in the social sciences and humanities with a good foundation in the natural sciences.
• Environmental Studies: The bachelor of science degree (BS) is designed to incorporate a strong foundation in the natural sciences with a good foundation in the social sciences and humanities.
• Environmental Science: The bachelor of science degree (BS) is designed to incorporate a strong foundation in biological, physical, chemical, mathematics, statistics, and geospatial techniques.

What Can I Do Outside of Class?

• Internships: The environmental internships offered through the department are focused in four areas: environmental resources, policy, education, and sustainability. More than one-third of these organizations have hired students for either part-time or full-time positions.
• Study Abroad: Explore rainforests, glaciers, coral reefs, and other environments around the world, and see firsthand how scientists are protecting our planet.
• Research: With close access to professors in the department and throughout UB, students may have opportunities to work on projects related to ecology, climate, sustainability, and other highly relevant issues.
• Student Groups and Clubs: Students will find a variety of groups committed to the environment, sustainability, and the outdoors.
• Letchworth Teaching Forest: A 34-acre forest right on campus, where students can see classroom concepts at work in nature.

What Can I Do with an Environmental Sustainability Degree?

With a broad range of environmental expertise, students will have the knowledge and skills that employers are looking for. Graduates generally seek professional positions in the areas of environmental policy and sustainability, and find these opportunities in a wide range of corporate, governmental, and non-profit organizations.

Some students also choose to get an advanced degree in biology or other environmental-related subjects.

Who Will I Learn From?

Many classes will be taught by nationally and internationally recognized faculty members from the environment and sustainability department, including experts in climate change, environmental policy, ecology, and other key topics. Students can also take courses from professors in various departments throughout UB, including anthropology, biological sciences, chemistry, communication, English, geography, geology, global gender and sexuality studies, indigenous studies, media studies, and psychology.