COURSE CURRICULUM

The Environmental Studies major requires students to complete approximately 62–63 units of coursework that combine scientific knowledge, research skills, and policy analysis related to environmental issues. The curriculum begins with 23–24 units of required lower-division courses that establish a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, environmental science, and economic principles. Students study biodiversity, evolution, and ecology through BIO 1, which introduces the relationships among organisms and ecosystems. They also complete BIO 2 or the combination of Basic Biological Concepts and Laboratory Investigations in Biology to understand cellular processes and genetic foundations of living systems. In addition, students take General Chemistry I or Introduction to General Chemistry to develop an understanding of chemical processes relevant to environmental systems. Courses such as Introduction to Microeconomic Analysis help students explore how economic factors influence environmental decision-making, while Introduction to Environmental Science introduces major environmental challenges and sustainability concepts. Students also complete a course in physical geography or geology to learn about the Earth’s atmosphere, landscapes, and natural processes.The program also requires 21 units of upper-division coursework that focus on advanced environmental knowledge and practical experience. Students take General Ecology to examine interactions between organisms and their environments, while Environmental Ethics explores moral perspectives related to environmental responsibility and conservation. International Environmental Problems analyzes global environmental challenges and international policy responses. Students also complete Quantitative Methods for Environmental Science and Field Methods in Environmental Science to develop skills in data collection, analysis, and environmental research techniques. Additional upper-division requirements include 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 with organizations working in environmental protection or sustainability.Students must also complete 3 units of policy electives focusing on topics such as environmental impact analysis, environmental law, or environmental politics and policy. These courses help students understand how environmental regulations, laws, and policy decisions influence environmental management and resource protection.In addition, the program requires 15 units of environmental science electives that allow students to explore specialized topics such as environmental toxicology, conservation and society, sustainability science and policy, agroecology, restoration ecology, wetlands ecology, environmental justice, and environmental management. Some electives may also include technical courses such as Geographic Information Systems, Remote Sensing, and Spatial Analysis in GIS, which provide valuable analytical tools used in environmental research and planning.Students may substitute up to six units of environmental electives with courses from related fields such as biology, geography, geology, history, or recreation and park management if the courses align with their career goals and are approved by a major advisor. Along with the major requirements, students must complete 43 units of general education courses that develop communication, critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and knowledge of arts, humanities, and social sciences, ensuring a comprehensive undergraduate education.