Bachelor of ENVIRONMENTAL AND SUSTAINABILITY

WELCOME TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND SUSTAINABILITY STUDIES PROGRAM!

Environmental and Sustainability Studies (ENS) at Grand Valley State University draws upon a variety of disci­plines to develop a holistic, place-based, and solutions-oriented understanding of environmental and sustainability challenges. The program emphasizes a practical ap­proach to environmental issues through collaborative problem-solving, involvement in fac­ulty-led research projects, internships, practicums, and community engagement projects. Students gain an understanding of the way interconnected physical, institutional, and cultural systems shape our attitudes and behavior toward the environment. The ENS program resides within GVSU's Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies. First introduced in 2008 as a minor, Environmental and Sustainability Studies has grown considerably since its inception and became a major in spring 2019. Visit the online catalog for a complete program description.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Students who major in Environmental and Sustainability Studies may choose a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. A major requires completion of 35 to 37 credits, plus the B.A. or B.S. program requirements. Students select coursework from three categories: social and cultural perspectives, physical and life science perspectives, and political and economic perspectives. In addition to three required core courses and a technical skills elective, students organize their studies around one or more of four focus areas:

• Sustainable Food Systems
• Energy
• Water Resources
• Culture and the Built Environment

Mission & Vision

Mission

Cultivating engaged global citizens through innovative interdisciplinary programs and diverse community partnerships.

Vision

The Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies will be a regional and national model for creative inquiry, integrative programming, inclusive practices, and student empowerment.

Guiding Principles

We value:

A collegial and collaborative student-centered environment where we support each other and work together, both within the college and across campus, in an open and transparent manner.

Cultural diversity and diversity of voices as a foundational principle in our curriculum, programming, and practices.

Community engagement through educational initiatives and experiential learning.

Interdisciplinary research and teaching that challenges and expands perspectives.

Risk-taking and innovation that encourages alternative approaches to scholarship, teaching, and learning.

Social, environmental, and financial sustainability in all that we do.