ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½

Majors and Minors

The Department of Environmental Studies and Sciences (ESS) offers interdisciplinary programs of study leading to a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science or a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies. Alternatively, students with any major may choose to minor in environmental studies and/or geospatial analysis.

These programs provide students with the intellectual foundation needed to address the crucial environmental challenges of the 21st century, including climate change, waste, air and water pollution, biodiversity loss, food insecurity, urban sprawl, sustainable development, renewable energy transitions, and more.

Academic highlights for all majors include

• Robust preparatory series in environment and society, the biological environment, earth systems, and ethics
• Skills courses in stats, GIS, and policy analysis
• Professional development seminar (ENVS 198 usually taken in Yr 2)
• 100-hour environmental internship
• Two-quarter senior capstone (Senior year fall and winter quarters

In addition to fulfilling the undergraduate Core Curriculum, students must complete the requirements of this academic program.

Use these checklists if you declared an ESS major during Fall 2020 and after:

Environmental science majors complete more courses than environmental studies majors, including a year of chemistry and either biology or physics, as well as at least three upper-division labs.

Environmental studies majors complete courses in world geography and mixed methods, offering greater flexibility that facilitates double-majoring and studying abroad.

Majors in ESS are expected to apply their knowledge outside the classroom by completing an approved internship or research experience. During their senior year, ESS students conduct research or an interdisciplinary group project with community stakeholders in ENVS 101 (Capstone Seminar).

ESS students are encouraged to study abroad. Courses such as ENVS 144 (Natural History of Baja L&L) include one week of immersion travel during University breaks. In addition, many summer and academic year courses taken through approved study abroad programs will count toward the requirements of the environmental studies and sciences majors and minors.

Each student works with a faculty advisor, who helps integrate the classroom curriculum with the student's plans for future study and/or work in environmental fields.

To declare or change a major, minor, or emphasis, fill out the ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ Registrar's  form.