Environmental Studies: Global Environmental Systems, BA

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.

Students in the Global Environmental Systems concentration will focus their coursework on understanding global environmental systems.

The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 35. Double majors may entail more course units.

This concentration is for students who have a background in either the Natural or the Social Sciences.

For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.

College General Education Requirements and Free Electives
Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives20
Major Requirements
Core Requirements
ENVS 1000Introduction to Environmental Science1
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 & Statistics1
Select 1 course unit of Economics & Policy1
ENVS 3100Environmental Case Studies1
or ENVS 3991 Topics in Environmental Studies
Select 1 course unit of Geographical or Environmental Modeling1
ENVS 4997Senior Thesis (Semester I)1
ENVS 4997Senior Thesis (Semester II)1
Global Environmental Systems
Select 1 course unit of Earth Systems1
Select 1 course unit of Biotic History1
Select 1 course unit of Geochemical Dynamics1
Select 1 course unit of Global Politics & International Relations1
Select 1 course unit of International Environmental Issues1
Select 2 course units of 4000 or 5000 level Concentration Electives2
Curriculum-Related Practical Experience
Field course or equivalent experience
Total Course Units35
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 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.