Environmental StudiesBachelor of Arts

Why study Environmental Studies at Gustavus?

As an Environmental Studies major, you will study the complex and dynamic relationships between water, land, air and life. You will think and create in a variety of disciplines, and you will learn to be a participant in and advocate for the building of a more just and sustainable world. You will gain a multidisciplinary viewpoint of humans and their surroundings, working with faculty across disciplines including history, the natural and social sciences, theology, the arts, and more. Then, you will personalize your major by choosing from many course options to set you up for success in your particular goals. Environmental Studies students often extend their education with sustainability internships, science research assistantships, and advocacy experiences. Students who graduate with an Environmental Studies degree also continue flourishing with careers in research, consulting, education, exploration, and public policy.

Course Examples

Every year, Gustavus faculty teach more than 1,800 courses - you'll be able to choose what interests you. Maybe one of these courses from Environment, Geography, and Earth Sciences will be on your class schedule.

  • REL-132Religion and Ecology
  • ENV 104HIS-104Environmental History
  • GEG/ENV-250Environment and Society
  • GEO/ENV-120Geochemistry of the Environment
Dr. Pamela Kittelson,

“The Liberal Arts College I Went to Changed My Life – Listen to the Learning for Life Podcast”

Dr. Pamela Kittelson, "The Liberal Arts College I Went to Changed My Life - Listen to the Learning for Life Podcast" Dr. Pamela Kittelson of the Biology Department and Environmental Studies program at Gustavus talks about growing up in Colorado, her path to college and eventually an unanticipated PhD in plant biology, coming to Gustavus, teaching Gustavus students in the field and abroad in India...

What can I do with a degree in Environmental Studies?

The Environmental Studies major is adaptable - and valuable - leading to many different fields and fulfilling careers. Here are a few popular paths, but a Gustavus degree can take you anywhere.

  • Sustainability
  • Environmental Policy
  • Environmental Compliance
  • Waste Diversion and Management
  • Soil Science
  • Stream Restoration
  • Land Use Planning
  • Environmental Education
$55,174
Average salary 5 years post graduation — Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes Explorer from the U.S. Census Bureau
11:1  Student to Faculty Ratio
72  Majors
100%  of courses taught by faculty members
15  pre-professional programs in a wide variety of disciplines

Get more information about Environmental Studies

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