Sustainability Related Programs, Courses & Certificates


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Sustainability Related Programs

Why Environmental Studies? Environmental and Sustainability studies are the systematic study of human interaction with their environment. While distinct from ecology and environmental science, the discipline encompasses study in their basic principles as well as the associated subjects, such as: policy, politics, law, economics, social aspects, planning, pollution control, natural resources, and the interactions of human beings and nature.
For additional information contact the ENS Director, Amy McFarland: [email protected]

 Environmental and Sustainability Studies

Why Geography and Sustainable Planning?  Geography and Sustainable Planning offers students the 21st century skill sets helping to solve complex environmental, economic and social problems such as food and water security, sustainable economic growth, environmental justice, and climate change adaptations. Our flexible transdisciplinary program provides courses of study focused on the geospatial technologies (cartography, satellite remote sensing, and GIS), sustainable urban and regional planning, environment and global/regional development

Geography and Sustainable Planning

Why Study Natural Resources Management? Environmental pollution, deforestation, climate change, and increasing demand for outdoor recreation are just a few of the current challenges to environmental sustainability. The Natural Resources Management (NRM) program prepares students to care for the land and water resources of Michigan and beyond, and to serve the people whose well-being depends on these resources. 

Natural Resources Management Major/ Minor


Sustainability Related Courses

Only want to take one class with a focus on sustainability rather than a minor or major? You can still take a variety of courses within the curriculum that also count towards General Education Credit, Issues credit, or may be required within your major.

For updated information of course listings and descriptions visit the Course Catalog


Certificates

The environmental remote sensing certificate provides cutting-edge skills in remote sensing science, digital image processing, and big data visualization. Emphasis is placed on applications of remote sensing technology in environmental planning, sustainable development, climate change adaption, urban resiliency planning, and natural resource management. 

Program description

This certificate can be completed in one calendar year, if all prerequisites were completed previously. To view requirements for and career opportunities with a Green Chemistry Certificate.. For questions regarding Green Chemistry certificates, contact Dalila Kovacs at [email protected] .

Program Description

The Department of Geography and Sustainable Planning offers a certificate in sustainable urban and regional planning. Students learn the best practices, strategies and techniques required for sustainable urban and regional development, smart and green infrastructure, and sustainable integration of social, environmental, and economic priorities in planning. 

Anyone admitted to GVSU as a degree-seeking student may complete this certificate.

Program Description

Strong local food systems are essential for healthy local communities. Students preparing for careers in local food enterprises, health care, sustainability, education, business, social work, non-profit administration and many other fields will benefit from the skills and experience necessary to address the role of food in community life.

Program Description

The geographic information science (GIS) and technology certificate allows you to map, model, query, and analyze large quantities of data according to location. This technology benefits organizations in almost every industry. There is growing interest in the economic, environmental, and strategic planning value of GIS.

Program Description

Note: Some of the certificates allow only degree-seeking students to complete them, while some allow non-degree seekers. For more information on such requirements and courses, visit each certificate's program description and the GVSU Catalog.





Page last modified August 3, 2022