The environmental studies major and certificate and sustainability certificate offer unique opportunities for undergraduate students to broaden their studies through interdisciplinary coursework related to the environment. The major or certificate must be taken simultaneously with another undergraduate major, meaning students not only learn about current environmental issues, they also learn how to link environmental science, policy, and humanistic approaches to other fields of study.
Environmental Studies
Environmental Studies Major
This academically rigorous program encompasses introductory through advanced explorations of environmental studies. Pursued simultaneously with another major, it equips graduates with a deep understanding of their disciplinary major and the interdisciplinary skills needed for a variety of professions.
Environmental Studies Certificate
The 15-credit environmental studies certificate can be added to any major, enhancing the value of a bachelor’s degree. Students learn about society’s environmental challenges; study environmental science, policy, and humanities; and take part in environmental research, fieldwork and case studies.
Sustainability Certificate
The sustainability certificate allows undergraduate students to broaden their studies through interdisciplinary coursework. It can be added to any major. Students learn sustainability principles and how to apply them on campus and in the wider world.
Community Environmental Scholars Program
Community Environmental Scholars solve local environmental challenges through service-learning experiences, connecting the wisdom, needs and energy of community-based organizations with the educational and institutional strengths of the environmental studies program.
Support Undergraduates
The Nelson Institute’s undergraduate program is robust and serves nearly 800 students across campus each year. Students benefit from high-touch academic advising, service-learning capstone courses, fun community-building events, and volunteer leadership opportunities. Gifts play a critical role in providing general program support, student scholarships, and career exploration experiences, or to enhance or expand the program’s teaching, research, and public service roles, including pursuing new opportunities and addressing strategic priorities.