Program Overview

Bachelor's in Sustainability Studies, BA

The first sustainability bachelor’s degree in the Chicago area, this program prepares graduates to tackle the sustainability problems of the 21st century. Using insights and analytic methods from science, policy and environmental justice, students explore natural and social ecosystems, identify national and international implications of sustainability issues, and apply their knowledge on behalf of campus and community projects.

Sustainability majors can also participate in the Sustainability Studies, BA/MPA Public Administration Accelerated Program leading to a BA in Sustainability and a Master of Public Administration degree. The program allows students to take three graduate-level courses as part of their undergraduate degrees. Once students are admitted to the MPA, the courses will apply toward completion of the MPA degree.

Why Roosevelt for your Bachelor's

Chicago Is Your Campus

Study and do research on-site at urban farms, nature centers and world-renowned museums; partner with students and faculty on city-wide and regional sustainability projects; and take advantage of myriad hands-on learning and sustainability-related internship opportunities that can enhance career options.

Student leadership

Take leadership roles in campus- and community-based projects to make Roosevelt a more sustainable university, including growing food in our rooftop garden and planning Earth Month activities and events.

Flexible Coursework and Supportive Faculty

Students can take courses in our LEED-Gold and National Historic Landmark Chicago Campus buildings as well as online; either way, you'll learn from expert faculty from a wide variety of disciplines in the natural sciences, social sciences and humanities.

Admission Info

Location

Chicago

Start Term

Fall, Spring

• Online application.
• SAT/ACT scores optional.
• Self-reported academic information from high school.
• Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities in the United States.
• Foreign Credential Evaluation for course work completed outside the U.S.
• English Language Proficiency requirement for all students who completed a degree program outside the United States.

Sample Sustainability Courses

• Sustainable Future
• Food
• The Sustainable University
• Energy and Climate Change
• Service and Sustainability

Careers for Sustainability Studies Majors

Professions throughout the economy seek out graduates who can combine knowledge of sustainability issues and environmental literacy with critical thinking, research and communication skills.

Roosevelt graduates hold green jobs like:

• Environmental technician
• Corporate sustainability specialist
• Garden educator
• Industrial hygienist technician
• Marketing & development assistant

Faculty

• Mike Bryson, Prof Sustainability Studies
• Maris Cooke, Adjunct Faculty
• Vicki Gerberich, Adjunct Faculty
• Michele Hoffman, Adjunct Faculty
• Carla Jones, Adjunct Faculty
• Julian Kerbis Peterhans, Adjunct Faculty