Environmental Studies

Why this program?

You are passionate about conservation, and you are dedicated to the preservation of our environment, ecosystems, and all living things that rely on them. You are eager to tackle the the environmental and ecological issues that affect us all. You are persistent in the vital and urgent task to reduce human impact on ecosystems and adapt to rapid change. Whether you’re starting out or a working professional, our program prepares you well.

From policy, ethics, and natural history to conservation, restoration, and adaptation, environmental issues cross many disciplinary boundaries; understanding these varied perspectives is increasingly important as we learn to live sustainably on this planet in an age of climate disruption. The bioregional focus of the program helps connect students to their local natural and human communities, enabling them to go beyond a conventional education and learn to identify and solve problems at multiple scales. Its applied emphasis on practical and local application of knowledge prepares students for professional work, creating opportunities for networking. The degree provides breadth through the common core, as well as depth in their choice of concentration.

What can you do with this degree?

This program is ideal for those who want to help meet the challenges of our time, whether they are working professionals, career changers, or just starting out. From wildlands conservation and ecological restoration to policy making and behavior economics, you emerge a multi-faceted problem solver with extensive knowledge and deep experience, so you can affect lasting change through whatever discipline suits you.

Our alumni have gone on to hold the following positions:

• Tribal Coordinator / Grants Project Officer, US EPA
• Director, Agriculture Development Division, VT
• Visitor Services Specialist, US Fish and Wildlife
• Director, San Carlos Apache Dept. Environmental Protection
• Research Technician, Charles River Laboratories
• VP, Conservation and Climate Initiatives, Woodland Park Zoo
• Outdoor Recreation Planner, Bureau of Land Management
• Community Outreach Coordinator, Coconino Parks and Recreation
• Director of Communications and Outreach, Pacific Institute
• Founder, Save Ohio Bees
• Executive Director, Sleeping Bear Wildlife Fund
• Wildlife Care Manager, Lake Metroparks
• Assistant Planning and Zoning Administrator, Stowe, VT
• Climate Editor, National Catholic Reporter
• Conservation Organizer, Forest Keeper
• Wilderness Ranger, Sitka National Forest, USDA
• Grassroots Organizer, Healthy Environment Alliance of Utah
• Recovery Permit Coordinator, US Fish and Wildlife
• Managing Editor, Passenger Vessel Association
• Outdoor Recreation Supervisor, York County Parks and Rec
• Program Coordinator, Sloughhouse Resource Conservation District
• Habitat Conservation Biologist, Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks
• Director of Outreach, Community Food Initiatives

What will this program look like?

This bioregional program gives you the expertise in environmental issues and apply it directly to your own community.  The cohort-based program is comprised of six foundational courses. Choose from three areas of concentration-Conservation Biology, and Environmental Communication- or create your own. Gain first-hand, real-world experience through local implementation, so you can acquire the credentials needed to land securely in your career. Develop and deepen your network, whether you’re starting out, coming from another field, or growing in your current position