Environmental Studies, BA: General Environmental Studies
The Environmental Studies major provides graduates with the necessary skills to contribute to society and effectively work on challenging problems that face humanity. Students acquire knowledge in environmental economics, environmental health, sustainability, renewable resources, and environmental management. In addition, they have an in-depth understanding of the human-environment interconnection, knowledge of international and domestic environmental issues, and are well-versed in environmental policies and how these policies are set and changed.
This is an individualized, specialized concentration designed for students who want to concentrate in an area not represented by the other concentrations. Formal proposals for this concentration must be developed and submitted for review and approved by both the EES program director and undergraduate chair before admittance into this concentration.
The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 35. Double majors may entail more course units.
For more information: http://www.sas.upenn.edu/earth/environmental-studies/individualized-concentration
For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| College General Education Requirements and Free Electives | ||
| Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives | 20 | |
| Major Requirements | ||
| Core Requirements | ||
| ENVS 1000 | Introduction to Environmental Science | 1 |
| Select one of the following: | 1 | |
| Global Climate Change | ||
| Earth Systems Science | ||
| Natural Disturbances and Disasters | ||
| Earth and Life Through Time | ||
| Oceanography | ||
| Select 1 course unit of Data Analysis & Statistics | 1 | |
| Attribute: AESD | ||
| Select 1 course unit of Economics & Policy | 1 | |
| Attribute: AESE | ||
| ENVS 3100 | Environmental Case Studies | 1 |
| or ENVS 3991 | Topics in Environmental Studies | |
| Select 1 course unit of Geographical or Environmental Modeling | 1 | |
| Attribute: AESG | ||
| ENVS 4997 | Senior Thesis (Semester I) | 1 |
| ENVS 4997 | Senior Thesis (Semester II) | 1 |
| Environmental Studies | ||
| Select 7 course units of Environmental Studies courses with 3 course units at the 4000 or 5000 level | 7 | |
| Curriculum-Related Practical Experience | ||
| Field course or equivalent experience | ||
| Total Course Units | 35 | |
- 1
You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement.
Honors
Applicants must have a 3.25 GPA in the major and complete Senior Thesis with a B+ or above.
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2025 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.