Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies - Ecological Systems

Our cohesive program provides students the opportunity to conduct research with faculty renowned in their fields, work with practitioners and communities to address local and global environmental concerns, participate in experiential learning here in the United States and abroad and be part of our dynamic SU community through small classes, on-campus organizations and activities, and co-curricular events. We seek to discover, assess, and propose innovative solutions that are ecologically sound and socially just. Advancing sustainability depends on an holistic approach to problem solving in collaboration with diverse peoples and through work across disciplines.

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.

Building on the natural science courses in the EVST core, coursework in the Ecological Systems Specialization includes a choice of courses in physical and ecological science and field exploration in diverse Pacific Northwest habitats. Numerous internships are available to students in the areas of government, business, nonprofit and agricultural operations. Many of the relevant course options in Ecological Science are in the Biology Department, so we strongly encourage students pursing this specialization to consider completing a minor in Biology.