Sustainability, B.A.

The Sustainability Program (Environmental Studies) is committed to preparing students to become contributing, compassionate global citizens in tune with BW’s core mission. As a Silver STARS (Sustainability Tracking Assessment Rating System) rated AASHE (Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education) member institution, we train students in the problem-solving methodology of Triple Bottom Line thinking. This means employing a transdisciplinary cost-benefit assessment, lifecycle analysis, and nested systems approach to evaluate the environmental, social, and economic consequences of the choices we make both individually and collectively to achieve the greatest benefit at the least cost to future generations. Sustainability majors may choose one of four possible concentrations including (1) Business, (2) Quantitative, (3) Policy and Ethics, or (4) Science. All four concentrations begin with similar foundational coursework and transdisciplinary options. Upper level coursework is geared towards deepening the knowledge base of students in each of the four concentrations as students prepare for careers with specialized knowledge in these substantive areas. The program concludes with a capstone course providing students with a team-based learning experience on selected projects emphasizing the practical application of sustainability methods.  We also encourage students with strong interests in the sciences to review the Environmental Science major offered at BW. Double majoring in SUS/ENV is also popular with the possibility of completing various Core requirements in the SUS major along with shared science coursework.