The Environmental Studies (ES) major offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that includes coursework from numerous departments and programs spanning the arts & humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.  ES aims to provide each student with an understanding of the complex interrelationships of humans and the environments they live in, including a grounding in science, human affairs and attitudes toward nature. Moreover, the ES Program aims to cultivate a sense of environmental citizenship and stewardship through service-learning and field experiences and a place-based curriculum.  The ES Program’s skills component prepares students either for graduate studies or to become environmental professionals in varied fields.

In the fall of their second year, students are encouraged to participate in the Adirondack Experience, an applied and place-based learning program utilizing the largest park in the lower 48 which is right in our backyard.  The program combines our introductory course with two-three other required courses and numerous field trips to explore contemporary environmental issues.  Later on in the program, after the sophomore or junior year, the optional internship/field experience provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the environmental field. Finally, in a capstone seminar, seniors develop and present an independent research project.

Please note:

• Each student is also required to complete an accompanying minor or second major in a discipline of their choosing.
• No more than two courses can count both toward the Environmental Studies student’s minor or second major.
• A grade of 2.0 or better must be achieved in all courses.
• For the Humanities, Social Science, and Science Electives, students may petition the program to accept other suitable courses.
• Some of the listed courses have prerequisites; students should consult the College Catalog.