Champlain College
AC-3: Undergraduate Program

Unlike a typical program in environmental studies, the Environmental Policy major at Champlain is focused less on the theoretical aspects of environmental science and more on the action-oriented practicalities of what students can do to envision bold solutions and change things for the better. This major gives students concrete, hands-on tools—and experience applying them—that sets them apart when it comes time to market their degree to a potential employer. Through this program, students gain the knowledge and skills to join the growing group of environmental professionals who are making policy decisions about the complex issues and multi-dimensional problems that affect the world we live in. They learn about the management of resources and waste in light of their effects on the planet; discover how to interpret statistics, communicate persuasively and guide public and private decision-making in ways that help protect the biosphere.

All undergraduate business students are required to take this course. BUS 210 - CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY This course explores how business can be a force for positive change in the world. Students examine how CSR is more than simply being ‘less bad’, but rather how being ‘good’ involves creating sustainable value both within a company and beyond. Through theoretical and hands-on exploration with CSR-minded companies, students learn how to balance the needs of a wide array of stakeholders, from shareholders to customers local communities, and even the natural environment to change the world through business.

The Environmental Policy minor focuses less on the theoretical aspects of environmental science and more on the politics of environmental issues and action-oriented practicalities of what people and organizations can do to envision bold solutions and change things for the better. Students who chose to minor in Environmental Policy learn a new layer of knowledge that employers in every field are hoping to find in their new hires. Students also gain a solid grounding in understanding complex, multi-dimensional environmental issues - and the politics surrounding them. Such a background in environmental policy will be of tremendous value to their future employer and to the community they live in.