For students passionate about creating a more sustainable and just world, Environmental Studies offers the knowledge, experience, and perspective to turn that passion into action...
Environmental challenges are among the most pressing issues facing communities on Long Island, across New York, and around the globe.
From climate change and environmental justice to biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and resource management, today’s world needs leaders who can understand the complex connections between people and the environment and develop innovative, equitable solutions.
The Environmental Studies B.A. program prepares students to tackle these challenges through an interdisciplinary approach that combines the insights of history, geography, and the social sciences. Students explore how human societies shape the environment and how environmental changes affect communities, economies, and cultures.
By examining environmental issues through both local and global perspectives, graduates gain the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact in a rapidly changing world.
Alumni Highlight
Alex Romero '91, Superintendent of the Fire Island National Seashore
After Graduation
Graduates of the Environmental Studies program leave with a strong multidisciplinary understanding of human-environment relationships and the ability to analyze complex environmental issues from multiple perspectives. The degree prepares students for careers in:
- Environmental education
- Policy analysis
- Environmental consulting
- Journalism
- Advocacy
- Government, nonprofit, or private-sector leadership
It also provides excellent preparation for graduate study in a wide range of environmental and sustainability-related fields.
Curriculum
The program’s curriculum provides a strong foundation in scientific, social, and historical approaches to environmental issues while emphasizing critical thinking, research, and problem-solving. Students are encouraged to pursue their individual interests through a flexible course of study, with opportunities to focus on areas such as environmental justice, geography, environmental history, environmental journalism, environmental economics, and public policy.
A distinctive feature of the program is its commitment to social justice. Building on the college’s longstanding tradition of civic engagement, Environmental Studies majors examine environmental challenges through the lens of equity, human rights, and community well-being. This perspective helps students understand not only the causes of environmental problems but also how to create solutions that benefit diverse populations and promote sustainable futures.
As a capstone experience, students participate in a research-based senior seminar focused on human rights and environmental issues, allowing them to apply their knowledge to real-world questions and develop valuable professional skills.
exlplore the program curriculum
Contact Admissions
Website
Address
223 Store Hill Road
Old Westbury, NY 11568
United States
Phone
516-876-3200