COURSE CURRICULUM

The Environmental Studies major requires students to complete approximately 62–63 units of coursework that combine scientific knowledge, policy analysis, and practical research skills related to environmental challenges. The program begins with 23–24 units of required lower-division courses that provide a strong foundation in the natural sciences, environmental systems, and economic principles. Students study topics such as biodiversity, evolution, and ecology through BIO 1, while BIO 2 or the combination of Basic Biological Concepts and Laboratory Investigations in Biology introduces cellular processes and genetic principles. Students also complete an introductory chemistry course such as Introduction to General Chemistry or General Chemistry I to understand chemical processes related to environmental systems. Additional foundational courses include Introduction to Microeconomic Analysis, which examines how economic principles influence resource use and environmental decision-making, Introduction to Environmental Science, which introduces major environmental issues and scientific concepts, and a course in physical geography or geology that explores the Earth’s landscapes, atmosphere, and natural processes.The program also includes 13 units of upper-division core courses that focus on ethical, political, and professional aspects of environmental studies. Students take Environmental Ethics to examine moral perspectives on environmental responsibility, and International Environmental Problems to analyze global environmental challenges. Advanced coursework also includes an Environmental Studies Seminar, a Senior Thesis that allows students to conduct independent research on an environmental topic, and an Environmental Studies Internship that provides hands-on experience working with organizations involved in environmental protection, policy, or sustainability initiatives.Students must also complete 8 units in research methods to develop strong analytical and technical skills. This includes Quantitative Methods for Environmental Science and at least five additional units from courses such as Field Methods in Environmental Science, Geographic Information Systems, Cost Benefit Analysis, or research design courses from related disciplines. These courses help students learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret environmental data.In addition, students complete 6 units of policy and management electives focusing on topics such as environmental law, environmental impact analysis, environmental management, and environmental politics. The program also requires 12 units of environmental studies electives, allowing students to explore specialized topics such as environmental toxicology, conservation and society, energy and the environment, sustainability science and policy, restoration ecology, wetlands ecology, agroecology, environmental justice, and environmental history. Some electives may be substituted with related courses from departments such as biology, geography, geology, or history with advisor approval.