The practice of sustainability isn’t just good for the environment — it’s also an important part of business. Whether it’s through recycling, alternative energy, environmentally friendly material science or other initiatives, organizations and governments are all working hard to become more green in their business operations.
The Sustainability Science major gives students a foundation in the science of sustainability combined with an understanding of business principles and practices at organizations that are looking to incorporate this important business function into their operations. The curriculum ensures that students will understand not only earth’s environmental systems, but also how they relate to business and societal activity — an approach that stands out among primarily science-based programs. The major is excellent preparation for students interested in a career path that requires them to consider environmental, economic and societal sustainability in corporate decision-making.
Through this major, students will gain real-world skills through required field experience in environmental science, as well as a capstone project or internship.
In addition to the specific major requirements described below, students must also complete all designated requirements in Foundations for Success, Contexts & Perspectives in the Arts & Sciences, Business Dynamics, Communication Intensive coursework, and the additional degree requirements for Arts & Sciences majors (including the Modern Language requirement). Details can be found in the Degree Requirements section of the catalogue, including the Overview and the Arts & Sciences Majors tabs.
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | 29 | |
| NAS 140 | Energy and The Environment | 4 |
| or NAS 145 | Principles of Geology | |
| or NAS 160 | Environmental Chemistry | |
| NAS 150 | Environmental Science and Sustainability | 4 |
| NAS 345 | Science of Sustainability | 3 |
| NAS 348 | Global Climate Change | 3 |
| Electives | ||
| Select three of the following: | 9 | |
| Environmental Economics | ||
| Global Health Challenges | ||
| Water and the Environment | ||
| Water Quality | ||
| Ecology: Principles and Applications | ||
| Global Climate Change | ||
| Energy Alternatives | ||
| Industrial Ecology | ||
No more than one of the three electives can come from the following list: | ||
| Globalization | ||
| The Developing World | ||
| Environmental Law | ||
| Environmental Psychology | ||
| Environmental Ethics | ||
| Field Experience | ||
| The options for students’ field experience requirement include: | 3 | |
| Coastal Geology of Cape Cod | ||
| Water and the Environment | ||
| Coastal Biology of Cape Cod | ||
| Senior Capstone Experience | 3 | |
| Research in Natural and Applied Sciences | ||
or NAS 420 | Internship in Natural and Applied Sciences | |