Environmental Studies, BA
Join Seattle University's Environmental Studies program and take action for a more just and sustainable world. Pick from four specializations or design your own.
About this Program
As an Environmental Studies student at Seattle University, you will:
- Tailor your major to your interests. Choose from one of four specializations: Urban Sustainability; Policy, Politics and Justice; Environmental Education and Communication or Ecological Systems - or design your own specialization.
- Explore the link between people and the environment - addressing issues facing our many ecosystems, including our homes, cities, farms, forests and oceans.
- Identify and solve sustainability challenges through an equity lens - gaining core competencies in the natural sciences, humanities and social sciences.
- Learn the data analysis tools, analytical skills and communication techniques you will need to understand and solve environmental problems, work with diverse stakeholders and communicate ways to move our communities toward a more sustainable future.
- Integrate field and class work in the Puget Sound area and beyond. Take small classes with professors dedicated to providing experiential learning opportunities to explore local and global environmental concerns that range from urban sustainability to landscape ecology, climate justice and more.
- Chart your career path through our Environmental Careers series, internship and independent studies opportunities and alumni network.
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.
Real-World Experience
You’ll prepare for your career though an Environmental Internship or Environmental Careers course where you can apply your interests in a workplace setting. You’ll also have opportunities to gain research experiences and to explore environmental issues beyond the classroom.
Double Majors to Maximize Your Impact
Depending on your specialization, you may want to consider a double major. Those who specialize in urban sustainability or politics, policy and justice are uniquely situated to complete a double major in public affairs or international studies.
Popular Careers for Environmental Studies Majors
Students extend their education through graduate studies in:
- Environmental and natural resource management.
- Environmental education.
- Environmental science.
- Marine affairs.
- Environmental health.
- Planning, policy and law.
Recent graduates with a specialty in urban sustainability have found careers with these organizations:
- Transportation Planner, Caltrans
- Project Engineer, McKinstry
- Stewardship Associate, Whatcom Land Trust
- Transportation Associate (planning, programming, grants), Los Angeles Metro
- Earth Sciences Research Consultant, NASA Ames Research Center
- Global Education Consultant, EF Education First
Recent graduates with a specialty in politics, policy and justice have found careers with these organizations:
- Mobility Program Supervisor, Hope Link
- Film Manager, Environment Washington
- Project Manager, Seattle Seed Company
Recent graduates with a specialty in environmental education and communication have found careers with these organizations:
- Marine Science Instructor, Catalina Island Marine Institute
- Environmental Educator, The Catamount Center
- Early Education Instructor, Saint Louis Zoo
- Environmental Educator, National Audubon Society
- Program Instructor, YMCA Earth Service Corps
Recent graduates with a specialty in ecological systems have found careers with these organizations:
- Urban Program Specialist, Islandwood
- Photojournalist, Tampa Bay Times
- Irrigation Planning Assistant, Huntington Library (art collection and botanical gardens)
- Environmental Educator, Seward Park Audubon Center
- Educator at Aquarium of the Bay
- Educator at Sitka Conservation Society
Hear From Our Alumni
Maia Sparkman
"The EVST program at Seattle University has shaped my ability to address and evaluate today’s complex environmental challenges considering the social, environmental, economic, political, and cultural scope of the problem."
18, Specialization in Ecological Systems
Featured Faculty
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Contact Us
Kimberly Gawlik, JD
Senior Administrative Assistant, Philosophy
Senior Administrative Assistant, Environmental Studies
Tanya Hayes
Chair, Department of Public Affairs and Nonprofit Leadership
Program Director, Environmental Studies