Central Michigan University
AC-3: Undergraduate Program

Description on the Webpage reads: "Do you strive to be a steward of the environment? Sustainability has become a hot topic due to an increase in pollution, deforestation, climate change and demand for outdoor recreation. If these issues interest you, explore a biology degree with a concentration in natural resources. At CMU, we combine the study of biology and ecology with geology, statistics, economics and policy so that our natural resources students are prepared at graduation to go out and manage the land and water resources of Michigan and beyond.​​" This degree provides students with the opportunity to grow as professional stewards, while gaining valuable scientific knowledge and hands-on experience in managing precious natural resources. This is an exemplary sustainability degree.

Website reads: "Environmental scientists use their interdisciplinary knowledge to investigate environmental systems and explore their relationship to our everyday lives. While studying environmental science at CMU you will learn to sample, analyze, model, interpret and predict earth system properties and address environmental problems. At CMU you will gain the knowledge and skills to understand and make a difference in the world around you. Points of Pride CMU's location in the heart of the Great Lakes provides the perfect setting to study the environment, with state-of-the art facilities in Mount Pleasant and at the CMU Biological Station on Beaver Island. Fieldwork is a key part of the program’s courses, with multiple field trips to CMU-owned Veit's Woods and Neithercut Woodland to assess properties such as soil and water chemistry, streamflow, and erosion. Students in the program have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art software, field instruments and laboratory equipment that are used in industry, government and academic settings." This degree prepares students to address pertinent environmental issues and move organizations/systems towards sustainable futures. The Environmental Science degree is yet another key sustainability-centered degree program.

Website Reads: "If you’re interested in solving problems such as pollution and global warming, you’ll want to prepare for a career as an environmental scientist. Environmental studies at CMU focus on the complex relationship between humans and the environment. Courses in the humanities, natural sciences and social sciences will give you valuable insights about Earth-related issues at local and global levels. Integrate your education with global responsibility at CMU. Surrounded by the Great Lakes, you’ll make a great difference as an environmental expert in just a few short years.​​ Points of Pride Located in the center of the Great Lakes Basin, Central Michigan University is a recognized leader in studying the Great Lakes, with more than 20 faculty in the Institute for Great Lakes Research supported by state-of-the-art facilities in Mount Pleasant and at the CMU Biological Station on Beaver Island. A $95 million Biosciences Building will provide additional opportunities for undergraduate classes and research." This degree is designed around providing students with all skills necessary to take on environmentally-based jobs upon graduation. Sustainability is at the core of this entire program.

*Please see Course Inventory*

The Environmental Studies minor involves similar attributes to the Major designation. However, less course hour requirements are necessary to complete the degree.

Website Reads: "Ever think about the life lessons that come your way via the great outdoors? CMU’s outdoor and environmental education minor will help you share those experiences with others. With this minor, you’ll join students planning careers in fields that range from biology to business, criminal justice to community recreation, and child development to counseling. With great diversity of thought and vast collaborative possibilities, CMU alumni of this program have started their own outdoor businesses, work in national parks and teach kids about the natural world.​​" This minor provides students with essential skills necessary to inspire future stewards, education people of all ages and from all backgrounds in both formal and informal settings. This skill set creates ideal professionals, well equipped to infuse sustainability into multidisciplinary curriculum.

Website Reads: "Moral problems, ethical theories, and religion and social issues are just a few of the topics you’ll study as part of the ethics, values and society minor." Within this minor, students gain important knowledge in the societal implications of Sustainability. In an age where technology, mass communication and heightened population, this minor is directly applicable to an endless list of sustainability related topics.

*Please see Course Inventory*