Environmental Studies is an interdisciplinary study that centers on the relationships between humans and the planet Earth. It seeks to help students develop a deep awareness of the complex, highly dynamic nature of the world we inhabit, including interactions among human populations, the biological and physical environments, resources, technology, social organization, and culture. The portion of the planet we occupy in the Pacific Northwest is exceptionally diverse for its latitude and affords rich opportunities for study and involvement.
Addressing environmental issues draws on almost every field in the liberal arts curriculum. For this reason, the core of the Environmental Studies major features a cross-disciplinary introductory course sequence along with requirements in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences.
Students in the major choose from one of three focus areas: environmental science, environmental policy, or environmental humanities. All students take a core of courses including Environmental Science, Environmental Governance, and the full-year senior capstone sequence. The major is available as a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degree.