Environmental Studies is an interdisciplinary academic field, as well as a field of practical endeavor. Both address key interrelated social, scientific, political and ethical issues.

The Environmental Studies program educates students in the reciprocal interactions between humans, nature, and the built environment. The major encompasses and integrates study in three core areas:

• basic principles of ecology and environmental sciences;
• environmental ethics and aesthetics;
• environmental social policy and science.

The Environmental Studies program gives students the flexibility to select courses that approach environmental issues from a perspective of interest to them, from business to natural resources conservation to philosophy and theology. Program requirements put to good use the natural setting of the campus and surrounding areas.

A perfect double major or minor

Students who are passionate about sustainable development can combine this major with a minor or even a second major in an area that reflects their skills and career interests. Recent graduates have successfully completed second majors or minors in Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, International Studies, International Business, Political Science, English, and Journalism/Communication.

Earn 'green' certificates

St. Bonaventure offers four, 12-credit certificates in areas of environmental studies:

• environmental law
• alternative energy
• business
• environmental reporting.

Nonmajors can enhance their undergraduate experience with these course sequences, which provide the fundamental theories of sustainability while focusing on an area of interest within the field. Students may earn up to two certificates.

A major leading to wide-ranging career options

Environmental Studies majors go on to careers in industry, government, and the nonprofit sector, as well as to graduate and professional programs in Environmental Studies and Sustainability.

The breadth of this program will prepare students for a wide range of careers, such as “green” business initiatives, environmental law and policy, natural resource conservation, environmental education, environmental journalism and marketing, and work with governmental and other organizations working to build a more sustainable future.

STEM-designated program

This program meets the requirements for STEM designation, as determined by the United States Department of Homeland Security.

STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) careers are among the fastest-growing and highest-demand fields worldwide. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in STEM occupations is expected to grow by 10.4% from 2023 to 2033 — significantly faster than other professions.

For international students, St. Bonaventure offers unique advantages. Pursuing a STEM degree here qualifies F1 visa holders for Optional Practical Training (OPT), including the opportunity for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. This means you could gain up to three years of practical experience in the U.S., enhancing your career prospects in global job markets.

Learn more about STEM at St. Bonaventure

The Environmental Studies program offers a B.A. in Environmental Studies and a minor in Environmental Studies.

Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies

The major in Environmental Studies educates the student in the reciprocal interactions between humans, nature, and the built environment. The student chooses a concentration in one of these three core areas: basic principles of ecology and environmental sciences; environmental ethics and aesthetics; and environmental social science and policy.  

Degree requirements and a four-year plan for the Environmental Studies major

Minor in Environmental Studies

For nonmajors, the Environmental Studies minor allows them to view their major from a perspective of environmental sustainability and add a component of environmental expertise to their final degree.

Requirements for the Environmental Studies minor