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Environmental Studies, BA

Join Seattle University's Environmental Studies program and take action for a more just and sustainable world. Pick from four specializations or design your own.

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About this Program

Meet the Needs of Present and Future Generations Through Actions that Support Human and Ecological Health, Social Justice, and Economic Wellbeing 

As an Environmental Studies student, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to integrate the ecological, social, and economic aspects of sustainability. Our program takes advantage of Seattle University’s unique location in one of the nation’s most sustainable cities surrounded by unique landscapes to explore local environmental concerns that range from urban sustainability to landscape ecology, climate justice and more.  

Our program uses a holistic and interdisciplinary approach, allowing you to tailor your major to meet your interests and better understand how people and the environment can thrive together. Through coursework in the natural sciences with the social sciences and humanities, you will learn to assess environmental problems and propose solutions that are sustainable and just for all communities. 

Environmental Studies Degree at a Glance

Learn how this degree from the Environmental Studies Program will contribute to your career goals. Each student chooses to specialize in an area of environmental studies and sustainability. You may choose one of four defined specializations, or work with your adviser to tailor your own. 

How can we build livable cities that are ecologically sustainable and equitable? Gain knowledge and skills in urban planning and community design, food systems, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), urban ethics, economics and politics.

Four-Year Program of Study

What policies and political processes support sustainability and environmental justice? Gain the knowledge and skills needed to analyze information and propose policy alternatives to address the complex environmental issues of climate change, natural resource management and sustainable development.

Four-Year Program of Study

How do we communicate our pressing environmental problems and potential solutions to people from all walks of life? Gain the knowledge and skills needed to teach, raise public awareness, advocate and motivate for environmental change using a broad base of mediums and communication strategies.

Four-Year Program of Study

How can we sustainably manage and restore our marine and terrestial ecosystems? Gain knowledge and skills in the physical, sociological and environmental sciences to understand the science and best practices needed to maintain the integrity of our ecosystems.

Four-Year Program of Study

Embarking on a minor in environmental studies opens a gateway to understanding the intricate relationship between humans and their surroundings. As a minor, you explore critical environmental issues, from climate change to conservation, and delve into the sustainable practices shaping our world. This interdisciplinary pursuit involves insights from science, policy, and ethics, providing a holistic view of environmental challenges. You gain practical knowledge on how individuals and societies can contribute to ecological well-being. A minor in environmental studies not only enhances your awareness of pressing global concerns but also equips you with the tools to be an informed advocate for a more sustainable and harmonious coexistence with the planet.

The environmental studies curriculum is designed to provide you with the ability to investigate environmental issues from a rigorous interdisciplinary perspective by integrating insights and information from the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. You will learn to:

  • Demonstrate a scientific understanding of the physical and biological dynamics of global ecologies including first-hand knowledge of local and regional ecosystems
  • Analyze the social, economic, and political and policy dynamics involved in both the emergence and the resolution of environmental problems
  • Explain and analyze the historical development, ethical implications, and religious dimensions of the human relationship with the nonhuman world

Through coursework and field experiences, you will develop the skills to use quantitative, research, and communication to effectively analyze and address environmental problems, issues and concerns by:

  • Producing a professionally competent empirical research report using statistical and quantitative methods and
  • Producing a major capstone research paper that demonstrates disciplinary expertise and professional standards in your area of specialization

What You’ll Learn

Learn about the classes you’ll take as a student here.

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Geographic Information Systems (GIS) & Geospatial Technology Certificate

Any student at Seattle University can earn a certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) & Geospatial Technology through this joint College of Arts and Sciences and College of Science and Engineering program. Jump start your career working with GIS software and data collection tools, leading to a wide range of professional opportunities. 

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Experiential Learning

Chart your career path through our Environmental Careers series, internship and independent studies opportunities and a broad alumni network. Work with faculty and campus partners on research projects to enhance the sustainability of our campus as well as local and global communities. Expand your knowledge of international environmental issues through education abroad. 

What can you do with a major in Environmental Studies?

Today’s environmental challenges call for professionals that are able to think systematically about problems and potential solutions, work with diverse stakeholders, analyze complex data and communicate effectively. Our Environmental Studies majors are equipped to meet these challenges.  

Many of our alumni find careers in urban planning and transportation, environmental restoration, environmental policy and law, geographic information systems, and environmental communication and outreach. They work in government, non-profits, business, education and consulting, leveraging their understanding of how political, cultural and socio-economic factors influence both natural and urban environments to drive discussions and develop solutions for a sustainable future. 

Hear From Our Alumni

Student Maia Sparkman

Maia Sparkman

"The EVST program at Seattle University has shaped my ability to address and evaluate today’s complex environmental challenges considering the social, environmental, economic, political, and cultural scope of the problem."

18, Specialization in Ecological Systems

Featured Faculty

  • Tanya Hayes
    Tanya Hayes

    Chair, Department of Public Affairs and Nonprofit Leadership
    Program Director, Environmental Studies

  • Marc McLeod
    Marc McLeod

    Associate Professor, History
    Associate Director, University Honors
    Affiliate, Latin American & Latinx Studies
    Affiliate, International Studies
    Affiliate, African & African American Studies
    Affiliate, Environmental Studies

Discover More Programs to Explore

Program Directory

  • Communication & Media, BA

    Major, Minor

    As a communication and media major, you will learn the skills and strategies to communicate ethically and effectively in every way—verbally, in writing, visually and digitally.

    • Bachelor of Arts

  • Environmental Science, BS

    Major, Minor

    In the environmental science major, you’ll take a range of applied science courses that support environmental management careers for a more sustainable world.

    • Bachelor of Science

  • International Studies, BA

    Major, Minor

    As an international studies major, you’ll gain solid academic foundations in a rigorous, holistic program. Through transformative international experiences you’ll be prepared for a variety of careers

    • Bachelor of Arts

  • Marine & Conservation Biology, BS

    Major

    With a major in marine and conservation biology, you’ll explore biodiversity, changing ecosystems and relevant local and global environmental issues.

    • Bachelor of Science

  • Public Affairs, BA

    Major, Minor

    In the public affairs major, you will build a solid base in leadership, economics, public policy, management and finance to prepare you to take action for social change.

    • Bachelor of Arts

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