Department of Environment and Sustainability
The world's biggest challenges don't respect disciplinary boundaries. Neither do we. Study environmental science, policy, and ethics together—and graduate ready to take action for a more just and sustainable world.
Tailor Your Degree to Your Interests
Sustainability challenges are complex—and solving them requires a holistic approach. Our multidisciplinary program provides the foundational knowledge needed to address today's most pressing environmental challenges, while giving you the flexibility to explore the issues that matter most to you, from ecosystem management and transportation planning to climate justice. With guidance from faculty mentors, you'll build an academic pathway that prepares you to make meaningful impact in your chosen field.
Environment and Sustainability, BA, BS, Minor and GIS Certificate
Explore the opportunities offered, including details about the specializations.
Choose a Specialization or Design Your Own
Gain knowledge and skills in urban planning and community design, food systems, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), urban ethics, economics and politics.
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Gain the knowledge and skills needed to analyze information and propose policy alternatives to address the complex environmental issues of climate change, natural resource management and sustainable development.
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Gain the knowledge and skills needed to teach, raise public awareness, advocate and motivate for environmental change using a broad base of mediums and communication strategies.
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Gain knowledge and skills in the physical, sociological and environmental sciences to understand marine and terrestrial ecosystems and the practices needed to maintain the integrity of these systems.
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Geographic Information Systems (GIS) & Geospatial Technology Certificate
Any student at Seattle University can earn a certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) & Geospatial Technology through this joint College of Arts and Sciences and College of Science and Engineering program. Jump start your career working with GIS software and data collection tools, leading to a wide range of professional opportunities.
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Education Abroad
Learn about environment and sustainability concerns from around the world while earning credits toward your Seattle University degree.
"I studied abroad in Puebla, Mexico....Connecting the dots between two seemingly unrelated subjects is exactly the definition of an interdisciplinary study, and one of the deciding factors in my choosing to major in Environmental Studies." Jessie Dirks, BA Environmental Studies, minor in Spanish '19
"I was able to research and connect the Mexican mural movement and popular art to concepts taught in my Environmental Studies coursework."
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Prepare for Careers in Sustainability
As an Environmental and Sustainability student, you'll explore career options, connect with alumni, and build your career path through our Environmental Careers course. You'll gain practical tools for finding opportunities, applying for jobs, and preparing for your next steps after graduation.
Careers in environment and sustainability are rapidly growing. Our graduates pursue careers in environmental science and conservation, policy, urban planning, business sustainability, clean energy, environmental justice, and education.
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Research and Experiential Learning
Environment and Sustainability professors provide experiential learning and research opportunities for students to explore local and global environmental issues that range from urban sustainability to landscape ecology, climate justice and more.
Students working with Snohomish County, Washington, to develop procedures for creating aerial image mosaics of small lakes and streams.
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Get Involved
Seattle University students actively support sustainability on and off campus. Support our Edible Campus, volunteer at a local urban farm, head out on a campus climbing trip or advocate for climate justice.
Learn more about the many ways you can be involved!
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Study in One of the Most Sustainable Cities in the Nation
As an Environment and Sustainability student at Seattle University, you will study on one of the most sustainable campuses in one of the most environmentally proactive cities in the nation. Seattle's bold climate action plan commits the city to carbon neutrality by 2050, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preparing for the impacts of climate change.
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