Interdisciplinary Programs Major, BA - Sustainable Systems and Societal Development Concentration

The Sustainable Systems and Societal Development concentration within the Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Programs (BAIP) empowers students to address critical sustainability challenges and their impacts on society. This interdisciplinary approach integrates ecological, geographical, sociological, and political perspectives, providing a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex relationships between environmental systems and human societies. Students will explore key concepts in sustainability, environmental justice, and social equity, preparing them to tackle pressing global issues. Through a diverse curriculum that includes core courses in ecology and environment, interdisciplinary studies in globalization and policy, and advanced topics in sustainability, students will develop essential skills for careers in environmental policy, conservation, international development, and social justice advocacy.

College Requirements

Arts and Sciences

Prerequisites (11 credit hours)

EEPS 103* - The Earth’s Environments 4 Credit Hours
GEOG 121* - Sustainable Human Geographies 3 Credit Hours
GEOG 131* - Weather, Climate, and Climate Change 4 Credit Hours

Major Requirements

This major consists of 33 credit hours.

Core Courses in Ecology, Environment, and Society (15 Credit Hours)

These courses provide a strong foundation in understanding ecological systems, conservation efforts, and the intricate relationship between human societies and the environment. Choose five courses:

EEB 306 - Ecology and Society 3 Credit Hours
EEPS 202* - Earth as an Ecosystem: Modern Problems and Solutions 3 Credit Hours
GEOG 204* - Understanding Climate Change 3 Credit Hours
GEOG 331* - Natural Hazards 3 Credit Hours
GEOG 333 - Climate Change and Human Response 3 Credit Hours
GEOG 345 - People and Environment 3 Credit Hours

Interdisciplinary Courses in Globalization, Policy, and Justice (choose 12 Credit Hours)

These courses broaden the scope of sustainability studies by integrating social, legal, and policy perspectives, ensuring students gain a well-rounded understanding of global sustainability issues.

Globalization and Development courses (6 credit hours)

These courses focus on the global scale of sustainability, poverty, and inequality, examining international dynamics of justice and development. Choose two courses:

GEOG 344 - Population Geography 3 Credit Hours
POLS 470* - International Law 3 Credit Hours
SOCI 342 - Globalization and Justice 3 Credit Hours
SOCI 442 - Comparative Poverty and Development 3 Credit Hours

Policy, Environment, and Social Justice courses (6 credit hours)

These courses explore the intersections of public policy, environmental issues, and social justice, helping students understand the role of governance, gender, and societal structures in sustainability efforts. Choose two courses:

GEOG 441* - Cities as Economic Engines 3 Credit Hours
POLS 366 - United States Foreign Policy Process 3 Credit Hours
POLS 441 - Public Budgeting 3 Credit Hours
WGS 383* - Feminism and the Environment 3 Credit Hours

Advanced Topics in Sustainability, Climate, and Social Equity (6 Credit Hours)

These courses delve into specific issues related to climate science and social justice, offering students the opportunity to engage with advanced topics relevant to sustainable systems. Choose two courses:

GEOG 440* - Global Perspectives on Urban Sustainability 3-6 Credit Hours
GEOG 442* - Urban Spaces and Urban Society 3 Credit Hours
PHYS 405 - Science, Technology, and Public Policy 3 Credit Hours

Footnotes

* Meets Volunteer Core Requirements.

Undergraduates

Graduate Students