Environmental and Sustainability Studies, B.A., B.S.
Students pursuing a major in environmental and sustainability studies (ENS) may choose a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. ENS is also available as a minor.
Students are admitted directly into this program.Program Overview
ENS students develop holistic, place-based, and solutions-oriented understandings of today's environmental challenges. Students explore the ways interconnected physical, institutional, and cultural systems shape our attitudes and behavior toward the environment. The program emphasizes practical approaches to issues through collaborative problem-solving and involvement in research, internships, and community-based projects.
Students who major in ENS complete 35 to 37 credits, plus the B.A. or B.S. program requirements. Majors select interdisciplinary coursework from at least one of four focus areas: sustainable food systems, energy, water resources, and culture and the built environment.
The ENS major is designed with the intention for students to easily combine and supplement it with another major, minor, or certificate to further expand their knowledge and career options.
ENS minors complete 21 credits, including 2 core courses and 5 courses of interdisciplinary electives.
Why Study Environmental and Sustainability Studies at Grand Valley?
- Make connections to pursue a career as an environmental and sustainability professional in industry, government, and non-profit organizations.
- Develop career skills in project management, communication, advocacy, public engagement, education, research, assessment, and reporting.
- Opportunity to pursue place-based study-away experiences in sustainability, such as the Beaver Island Field School.
- Acquire first-hand experience addressing complex environmental problems through community-based learning, internships, and research projects.
- Engage in campus sustainability activities at Michigan's top-rated green university.
- Gain the broad educational background needed to create positive change as leaders, decision-makers, and citizens.
Career Insights
This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.
Location & Format
Students may complete courses for this program online, hybrid, or in-seat at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus.
Formats:Combined Degree Programs
Many GVSU undergraduate programs can be combined with an existing master’s degree program to save on tuition and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, you can save $8,500 by pursuing a combined degree and take up to four fewer courses than if earning the degrees separately.
Talk with an advisor about how you can build your combined degree from existing programs to further personalize your education and create your own niche area of expertise.
Admission Requirements
Visit the Admissions website for undergraduate requirements.
Helpful Links
For More Information
School of Interdisciplinary Studies
gvsu.edu/ens |
[email protected]
167 Lake Michigan Hall
(616) 331-8016