The Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies degree is designed to provide students with a critical foundation in both the scientific and human foundation of environmental systems. It also prioritizes mastery of skills that will position students for future success as environmental professionals. In their first two years, all environmental studies majors complete introductory courses in critical scientific disciplinesincluding focusing on food, water, and climate resourcesand in essential human dimensionsincluding sustainable development, environmental health, and environmental justice. Lastly, all students take required skill-building courses that are designed to promote success with desired co-op and career opportunities. Students then opt for one of five concentrations that build their training in courses from across the university. These concentrations are specifically designed to cover the breadth of areas where people and the environment intersect, including courses that draw on Northeastern's expertise in public health, environmental justice, environmental law, visualization and storytelling of environmental issues, and the green economy. The academic programs of the Department of Marine and Environmental Sciences provide students a deep, multidisciplinary understanding of the chemical, physical, geological, socio-ecological, and biological processes that shape Earth's myriad ecosystems. This fundamental understanding, coupled with a focus on the many environmental challenges facing our planet, seeks to yield knowledge and solutions that promote sustainability. Our graduates leave Northeastern University prepared to address diverse issues including collapsing fisheries, the impacts of climate change (e.g., sea level rise), coastal erosion, and pollution. To address and solve today's complex environmental problems, environmental professionals are expected to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team containing natural and social scientists, engineers, and policymakers.
