BS in Environmental & Sustainability Science

A geography student kneeling in a grassy wood taking a measurement

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Sustainability Science program equips students with a broad foundation in the sciences with which they can take advantage of important new quantitative skills in geospatial techniques and data science and develop a concentration in either Earth and Environmental Science or Ecological Management. Required coursework incorporates science classes from across the university, with elective options including Conservation Biology, Water Resources, Oceanography, and more. Through varied courses, internships, and undergraduate research, students gain experience one of the fastest-growing career fields.

Graduates of the BS program are well prepared for competitive careers in natural resource management; environmental consulting and startups; sustainability planning and policy; and compliance-oriented agencies and departments of the environment at the federal, state and local levels. The program is also beneficial for students planning to attend graduate programs in environmental science, ecological management, or sustainability planning and policy.


Program Objectives

Upon completion of the BS in Environmental and Sustainability Science, students will be able to:

  • Critically evaluate the biophysical aspects of environmental problems
  • Apply quantitative methods to analyze environmental problems
  • Integrate the perspectives of multiple disciplines in proposing solutions

Program Benefits

  • Broad foundation of science courses from across the university which prepares students for future careers and graduate programs in the sciences.
  • Opportunities to engage with nature and the built environment in and around Washington, D.C.
  • Off-campus field courses in geography, geology, and biology
  • Internship and research opportunities with the National Parks Service, National Geographic and the Environmental Protection Agency
  • Option to combine degree with a major or minor in geography or a minor in geographic information systems
  • Access to the Center for Urban and Environmental Research (CUER), which provides opportunities for faculty and students to engage in environmental research and urban development activities

Undergraduate Advisors

Environmental and Sustainability Sciences Last Name A-L: Melissa Keeley

Environmental and Sustainability Sciences Last Name M-Z: Dmitry Streletskiy


Course Requirements