Environmental and Sustainability Studies is an interdisciplinary approach designed to examine the reciprocal relationships between the physical environment and human systems in which we live. The major is designed to provide a broad cross-section of methods and approaches in order for students to understand the processes in which diverse fields approach these issues. Fundamental scientific knowledge from biology and chemistry is augmented with studies in geography, philosophy, psychology, and sociology. Elective options within the major allow students to dive deeper into their studies, make ties to fields such as economics, history, literature, and political science. Students will complete an independent study with faculty in the Environmental and Sustainability Studies program as a capstone experience.
Graduates will be prepared to enter fields as diverse as policy analysts/aides for non-profits or legislative bodies, as sustainability officers for businesses and non-profits, as sustainability consultants, working in community-supported agriculture, or in advocacy work.
Requirements for Graduation
To be eligible for graduation, students majoring in Environmental and Sustainability Studies must complete a minimum of 120 credits, achieve a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher, satisfy the College’s residency requirements, and complete the General Education Requirements of the College. A minimum grade of 2.0 is required for First Year Seminar and all courses taken as part of Foundations. Courses used to complete General Education Requirements may not be taken on a pass/fail basis.
The General Education Requirements of the college require students to successfully complete First Year Seminar, Foundations (FCO 103 will be a required co-requisite with FCO 105 for students who have a high school GPA below 3.20), Disciplinary Perspectives, and a Constellation. Students who enter the college with 30 credit hours completed will not take a First Year Seminar course and therefore must take an additional 3 credits for graduation. Transfer students that are awarded 60 or more credits upon acceptance to York College will not be required to complete a Constellation.
Return to: