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Welcome to the Environmental Studies
This program provides students with perspectives on environmental issues from a wide variety of disciplines, including humanities, the social sciences, and the natural sciences. Students will understand human behavior and the workings of our social, medical and economic institutions. Students who study in this field will also engage law and political disciplines that directly or indirectly impact our world. It also familiarizes students with core topics related to environmental issues and sustainable solutions like these topics:
- Biodiversity
- Nature & Species Conservation
- Climate Change
- Waste (Exporting of Hazardous Chemicals)
- Global Warming
- Energy Conservation
This interdisciplinary minor is for those students who wish to use it as preparation for a career, as well as those who wish to better understand environmental issues. Since everything we do involves the environment in one way or another, a minor in environmental studies can complement any major at VSU. Moreover, environmental issues are becoming increasingly important in both public and private sectors. Consequently, employers value individuals who understand and are skilled in this area.
Selected Education Outcomes
Coursework in environmental studies will enable students
- To analyze core issues of the natural environment and how those have changed through time
- To explore the interdisciplinary relationship among the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences with regard to the study of the environment
- To engage in dependent critical research of the natural environment in its relationship to humanity
Examples of Outcomes Assessments
- Students will demonstrate knowledge of core issues and topics in environmental studies through formal written work, tests, and projects. The Environmental Studies Committee will sample student work and assess it according to an assessment rubric.
- Students will be able to articulate interdisciplinary relationships in environmental studies through formal written work, tests, and projects. The Environmental Studies Committee will sample work and assess it according to an assessment rubric.