Applied Sustainability, BA

Introduction

Applied Sustainability is a broadly applicable problem-solving process that seeks to create whole system solution to environmental and social issues. Its hallmark is an inclusive, interdisciplinary, and collaborative approach that brings multiple perspectives together to make equitable decisions. Building on a foundation of ecological literacy and systems thinking, students in the Applied Sustainability major will learn to apply frameworks derived from a scientific understanding of ecosystems to contemporary sustainability issues, though experiential engagement, design and practice. The major focuses on the integration of theoretical and practical knowledge, building quantitative and qualitative research skills, and preparing students for careers as leaders who work with diverse stakeholders. Students will be exposed to the principles of community engagement and opportunities for service and leadership.

Careers for majors in Applied Sustainability include: conservation and environmental education/interpretation, food and agriculture systems, permaculture and landscape design, sustainability coordinators and assessment in businesses/institutions, urban and community planning, research and science policy.

Baccalaureate Degree Core

Baccalaureate Core & Other Graduation Requirements

Major Requirements: 55-56 Credits

All of the Following: 39 Credits

ENV 100 - Environmental Studies Seminar 1 credit(s)
ECON 101 - Economics of Social Issues 4 credit(s)
OR ECON 102 - Economics of Markets & Governments 4 credit(s)
ENV 141 - Permaculture Design Science 4 credit(s)
ENV 160 /PHY 160 - Energy & the Environment 4 credit(s)
ENV 200 - Sustainability Science 4 credit(s)
ENV 250 - Frameworks of Sustainability 2 credit(s)
ENV 270 - Geospatial Analysis using GIS 4 credit(s)
ENV 330 - Ecosystems & Ecological Design 4 credit(s)
ENV 352 - Gender and the Environment 4 credit(s)
ENV 390W - Community Engaged Research 2 credit(s)
ENV 475 - Internship 1-14 credit(s) (minimum 2 credits)
ENV 490 - Capstone Experience 2 credit(s)

Complete one of the Following Concentrations: 16-17 Credits

Additional 16-17 credits from the Concentrations below:

Fostering Sustainable Behaviors and Communities
Outdoor Leadership and Environmental Stewardship
Sustainable Agriculture and Water Systems

Concentration Structure

Concentrations are designed to provide students with a cognate of courses to deepen experiential skills and theoretical knowledge in a focal career area. Students will enter these concentrations with a strong foundation of sustainability theory/practice, that they may apply to their scholarly interest area/
Students are expected to develop an internship plan that aligns with their concentration in either the Spring of their sophomore year, or Fall of their junior year.
Faculty will schedule at least one social event per year to build community and support among students and faculty in the program.

Complete one of the following concentrations:

Program Details

Program Length

Four years for a complete BA degree. Two years for students transferring in with an AAOT degree. Program length may vary depending upon the student’s course load and academic progress.

Program Learning Outcomes

Understand and apply transdisciplinary approaches to sustainability issues, across and within the spheres of sustainability (e.g. social, ecological, and economic).
Communicate effectively, orally and in writing, theoretical and practical knowledge of ecological, social, and economic systems, and their intersections within sustainability.
Understand and apply principles of community engagement in accordance with disciplinary standards, to develop equitable interventions for sustainability issues, and communicate these interventions to diverse audiences through culturally appropriate modes.
Design, conduct, interpret, and evaluate sustainable systems research using qualitative and quantitative methods and reasoning.

Undergraduate Admission

Undergraduate Admission Requirements