Nature and Society Concentration
The Nature and Society concentration is a course of study that provides flexibility for students to pursue a range of interests and develop a broad base of knowledge in the environmental field. This concentration allows students the greatest freedom among the three concentrations to select the courses they want to construct their major. It is particularly well suited for those who love learning about nature and the environment but are as yet unsure of the precise career path they wish to take, or for those who seek an environmental career in writing or the arts. The concentration in Nature and Society prepares students for work in environmental advocacy, communication, consulting, education, government and journalism, as well as for the Peace Corps, AmeriCorps and many masters degree programs.
Nature and Society Concentration: example course plan (first 3 semesters)
This is an example course plan based on the 2023-2024 University Catalog; your actual
schedule may deviate from this example. Your faculty advisor will work with you to
select appropriate courses.
Fall Semester
- ENST 100 Environment & Society (AV)
- General Education Course*
- Gateway Colloquium
- Second Language Course
- Physical Education (PEX)
Spring Semester
- BIOL/ENST 120 Ecology & Environment Problems (LSI)
- One ES course from approved list designated as:
- General Education Course* (or Gateway if not completed in the Fall semester)
- Second Language Course
- Physical Education (PEY)
May Term
- Optional
Fall Semester
- ENST 230 Earth Systems Science (PSL) (or Spring, depending on when offered)
- One ES course from approved list designated as:
- General Education Course*
- Second Language Course
- Physical Education (PEY)
Additional Information for Spring Semester
- During the 4th semester (Spring of Year 2), majors are also encouraged to take a course that fulfills the Methods requirement for the major.
Study Abroad
Students are encouraged to study abroad and should consult with the Director of the Environmental Studies Program to decide on a case-by-case basis which semester(s) would be most appropriate.
Additional Information
- Though BIOL 101-102 is not required for the Nature and Society concentration or the Global Sustainability, Policy & Justice concentration, students should enroll in BIOL 101-102 their first year if they are, or may be, interested in focusing their major in the scientific study of the environment. Due to course sequencing, without taking the introductory biology sequence (BIOL 101-102) in the first year, it is virtually impossible later in their undergraduate career to pursue the Ecology Concentration.
Abigail Jahiel - Professor of Environmental and International Studies
Department - Environmental Studies