Introduction

Environmental Studies is a multi-disciplinary, problem-oriented major designed to give students knowledge of and solutions to environmental problems. Program majors focus on one of two areas: environmental interpretation/education or environmental planning/management.

Graduates with the first concentration are prepared to become environmental professionals in positions such as naturalists with parks and other outdoor organizations and environmental educators in camps and social service agencies. Those with environmental planning find employment in municipal and not-for-profit agencies, in natural resource planning and management, water resources, solid waste issues, ecological restoration, park development, and environmental policy at the local, state, regional, or national level


Program Objectives

Students are expected to develop:

  • knowledge drawn from the natural sciences concerning structure, function, and effect of change in ecosystems; from the social sciences concerning factors that affect natural systems such as population pressures, pollution, resource utilization and depletion; from the humanities concerning the relationships of ethics and values to environmental attitudes and behaviors 
  • knowledge of interrelationships involving economics, politics, and perceptions in environmental decision making
  • knowledge related to causes of environmental deterioration and constructive efforts to deal with environmental problems in a historical and contemporary context 
  • the ability to acquire information through field observations, interviews, and surveys, as well as from maps, aerial photographs, satellite imagery, computerized information, and a variety of other prepared sources 
  • analytical skills to process information derived from the above sources 
  • the ability to prepare effective oral, written, and graphic presentations
  • the ability to apply relevant theoretical perspectives to actual environmental problems

Academic Catalog Information

Take a closer look at the bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies and the courses offered toward the degree.

Environmental Studies, B.A.

Department and Contact Information

If you are interested in the program or have questions please contact Geography and Environmental Studies.

Geography and Environmental Studies Department Homepage

About Northeastern

Northeastern Illinois University is home to students from all corners of the world and is one of the most ethnically diverse universities in the nation. Our small class sizes, flexible schedules and dedicated faculty can help you succeed in your studies.

We offer an education with value.

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