Program Overview

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Major in Environmental Studies

The Major in Environmental Studies ensures that students consider environmental issues in terms of their interdisciplinary origins and implications.

Major Requirements

The Major in Environmental Studies (ENVS) consists of 36 credits of coursework reflecting the program’s four-field approach (natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, and methods/techniques).

• Intro to Environmental Studies (3 cr)
• Natural Sciences (6 cr)
• Environmental Social Sciences (6 cr)
• Environmental Humanities (6 cr)
• ENVS Methods/Techniques (3 cr)
• ENVS Capstone (3 cr)
• Electives (9 cr)

At least 18 of these credits must be earned through coursework at the 300 level or higher. No more than 12 of these credits can be double counted for either the student’s primary major or any other degree. No more than one D grade will be accepted for credit towards the major.

Dual Major Requirement

The Major in Environmental Studies is designed as a second major, and is meant to complement a student’s primary Major in another field. All requirements for both Majors must be met before the Major in Environmental Studies can be conferred. A student’s primary Major may be drawn from any major recognized by the School of Arts and Sciences.

Environmental Studies Learning Goals

The program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues, including their natural, social, and humanistic aspects. The learning goals of the program include:

• Understanding the interdisciplinary nature of environmental issues
• Developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Acquiring knowledge of environmental principles and practices
• Cultivating effective communication and collaboration skills

Environmental Studies Program Structure

The program is structured to provide students with a broad foundation in environmental studies, as well as the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of interest. The program includes:

• Core courses in environmental studies
• Electives in natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, and methods/techniques
• A capstone course that integrates knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program

Environmental Studies Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Environmental Studies program can pursue a wide range of career opportunities, including:

• Environmental policy and management
• Conservation and sustainability
• Environmental education and outreach
• Research and development
• Private sector consulting and industry

Environmental Studies Research Areas

The program encompasses a range of research areas, including:

• Environmental policy and governance
• Sustainable development and conservation
• Environmental justice and equity
• Climate change and energy policy
• Human-environment interactions and environmental behavior

Environmental Studies Faculty

The program is taught by a diverse and experienced faculty with expertise in various fields, including:

• Environmental science and policy
• Ecology and conservation biology
• Environmental economics and management
• Environmental sociology and anthropology
• Environmental humanities and philosophy

Environmental Studies Resources

The program provides students with access to a range of resources, including:

• State-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities
• Environmental libraries and databases
• Internship and job placement opportunities
• Study abroad programs and international partnerships
• Professional networking and career development support

Environmental Studies Affiliated Faculty

The program is affiliated with a range of faculty members from various departments, including:

• Department of Geography
• Department of Environmental Sciences
• Department of Sociology
• Department of Economics
• Department of Philosophy

Sample Degree Plan

A sample degree plan for the Environmental Studies major is available, outlining the required and elective courses for the program.

Transfer Students

Transfer students are welcome to apply to the Environmental Studies program, and may be eligible for transfer credits.

Jobs in Environmental Studies

Graduates of the Environmental Studies program can pursue a range of job opportunities, including:

• Environmental consultant
• Sustainability specialist
• Conservation biologist
• Environmental policy analyst
• Environmental educator

Opportunities

The program provides students with a range of opportunities, including:

• Internships
• Study abroad programs
• Research projects
• Volunteer work
• Professional networking and career development support

Book Club

The program offers a book club for students to discuss environmental issues and topics.

Environmental Studies Major Declaration

To declare the Environmental Studies major, students must send an email to the program advisors to initiate the process.