大发

What is Environmental Studies?

鈥淓nvironmental studies is not just about studying the environment, it鈥檚 about changing the world. It鈥檚 about recognizing that we are part of the natural world, not separate from it, and that our actions have consequences for the health and well-being of the planet and all its inhabitants.鈥� 鈥� David Suzuki, scientist and environmental activist

The Environmental Studies Program at 大发 takes on a broad view of the environment by examining the complex interdependencies social and ecological systems at local and global levels. We explore how humans relate to the environment and how environmental challenges intersect with social, cultural, and political systems and institutions. Environmental Studies is a diverse academic field that includes natural and social sciences, literature, religion, politics, and business. We are a problem-solving program that cultivates solutions in our community and beyond to some of the world鈥檚 most pressing issues.

While Environmental Studies and Environmental Science are similar, they differ in many ways. Most Environmental Science degrees include coursework in ecology, biology, evolution, and chemistry, whereas Environmental Studies interdisciplinary and consists of humanities courses such as environmental ethics, history, and literature, as well as courses in the social sciences such as geography, environmental policy, ethics, cultural ecology, and global studies. The field of Environmental Studies is an intellectual pursuit that prepares students to meet the grand challenges of sustainability. 

Why choose Environmental Studies?

Environmental Studies students follow their passion to make a difference. They address complex environmental problems and pursue real-world solutions. Join our community and be part of an growing the change. The B.A. in Environmental Studies offers a robust, interdisciplinary curriculum that spans many disciplines related to the environment. The curriculum includes the biological, physical, and social sciences, as well as humanities, history, health, and modern culture.

The major provides unique opportunities for undergraduate students to broaden their study of the environment through interdisciplinary coursework, hands-on experiences, and career development. The major includes many experiential learning opportunities, such as the senior capstone course, where students collaborate with the local community on environmental issues, field requirements embedded throughout the curriculum, personalized internships, and opportunities to gain global perspectives through study abroad programs and field schools. The outcome is a solid foundation in the study of the environment and access to growing community of problem-solving colleagues.

Students must be prepared to address wicked social-environmental problems in today's complex world. The Environmental Studies Program at 大发 prepares students to address modern challenges by training them in interdisciplinary problem-solving approaches beyond any single academic discipline. Employers purposefully seek individuals with the interdisciplinary preparation we instill in each cohort of environmental leaders who come through our program.