Certificate

Link to WesMaps Courses

Environmental studies is a multidisciplinary, integrative study of a broad range of environmental issues. Environmental science (such as climatology or conservation biology) is one aspect of environmental studies. But environmental studies also brings together the spectrum of foci that are necessary to solve, evaluate, comprehend, and communicate environmental issues. Thus, environmental studies includes sciences, economics, government, policy, history, humanities, art, film, ethics, philosophy, and writing.

 For students to engage contemporary environmental issues, they must obtain expertise in the area of their major and gain broader perspectives in environmental studies through a set of introductory and elective courses that increase the breadth of their understanding to complement their specialty.  The aim of the program is to graduate students who have both a specialty and breadth of perspective so that they can interpret environmental information; understand the linkages to social, political, or ethical issues; and formulate well-reasoned opinions.

The certificate is granted for a minimum of seven credits as follows:

  • Either BIOL/E&ES 197 Introduction to Environmental Studies or E&ES199 Introduction to Environmental Science
  • Plus six courses related to the environment (see spread sheet) as follows:
    • three must come from one department
    • six must come from 3 departments or programs and two divisions
    • one class must be at the 300 level or higher
  • With the exception of ENGL112 and BIOL/E&ES197 or E&ES199, all other courses must be at the 200 level or higher
  • A senior thesis project relevant to environmental studies can substitute for 1 300-level class

Students may petition the director to substitute courses for the certificate (e.g., courses taken abroad, at other institutions, etc.).

 

Barry Chernoff, Director

284 High Street, x2452

Valerie Marinelli, Administrative Assistant

284 High Street, x3733