Bachelor of Science [B.S] [Earth, Society, and Environmental Sustainability] From University of Illinois

Students will learn about the interconnectedness of environmental, economic, and social systems of the world; the implications of our actions on the environment; factors that determine the sustainability of human institutions, organizations, cultures, and technologies; finding solutions through innovative approaches; and expanding future options by practicing environmental stewardship.

Required introductory coursework provide breadth in the essential natural and social sciences needed for interdisciplinary environmental sustainability study. The major offers two concentrations within which majors gain content expertise: Science of the Earth System, and Society and the Environment. Depth of knowledge is achieved by requiring a minimum of five advanced classes in a coherent field of study.

The major is available to both on-campus and off-campus students. On-campus students need only be eligible to be in LAS to transfer to the degree. The program is also designed so that students with an associates (or equivalent) degree, or who have sufficient previous coursework, can transfer to the University and complete a Bachelor of Science degree entirely off-campus. Students interested in completing the course off-campus, but have less than 60 hours of coursework, should consult with the program advisor.

The degree will prepare students for a variety of career paths in either the private or the public sector, as well as for graduate study. The interdisciplinary background in both scientific and human aspects of environmental problems will prepare students for a variety of positions with businesses, state and federal regulatory agencies, research institutions, consulting firms and nongovernmental education and advocacy organizations. The major also provides a platform for entry into professional schools (e.g. law, business, and public policy programs) as well as graduate study in a variety of physical science and social science disciplines, and in interdisciplinary programs related to the environment.