Environmental studies is a multidisciplinary field that examines human interaction with the environment in order to comprehend, evaluate, communicate, and solve a broad range of environmental issues. The aim of Wesleyan’s program is to provide students with both a specialty and a breadth of perspective to interpret environmental information; understand the connection to social, political, or ethical issues; and formulate well-reasoned opinions.
Students who major in environmental studies often pursue careers in sustainability and renewable resources, and environmental policy and economy. Environmental studies is offered as a linked major or a minor.
What You'll Study
The environmental studies linked major combines intellectual depth in one area (the major) with breadth achieved through courses and research in the linked major. The linked major program requires a substantial amount of immersion and focused concentration in environmental studies compared to the minor.
- The linked major requires an introductory course, seven electives, a senior capstone experience, and a senior colloquium. The seven electives include one course from each of three core academic areas (arts and humanities, social sciences, and natural science and mathematics) and a four-course thematic concentration on environmental issues of the student’s choosing. Students in the linked major are encouraged to pursue a capstone project, especially a senior thesis, on an environmental topic from the perspective of their primary major.
- The seven-course minor provides limited exposure and a basic level of expertise in environmental studies. Many students use the minor as a demonstration for employers in environmental fields that they have had a basic immersion.
