George Mason University
AC-3: Undergraduate Program

George Mason University’s BA degree in environmental and sustainability studies combines the study of human behavior and environmental science. This innovative interdisciplinary program emphasizes the pivotal role that economic markets, politics, and human behavior play in creating, as well as solving, environmental problems. The program underscores ecosystem dynamics and how these systems respond to external factors. With an emphasis on social and environmental justice, it looks at the impact of sustainability programs on the global environment and human communities. Concentrations in the program include: Business and Sustainability (BUSU), Climate Change and Society (CCSO), Environmental Policy and Economics (EVPE), Equity and Environmental Justice (EQEJ), Sustainable Food and Agriculture (SFG), and Conservation and Sustainability (CSUS).

The BS in environmental science provides students with rigorous training in the fundamental science of the environment, and the application of the key scientific principles to the analysis of environmental processes and problems and to the development of practical responses to those problems. The program covers the fundamental techniques of environmental science and engineering, protection and improvement of environmental quality, environmental policy, risk assessment and risk management, and public and private decision-making processes. Graduates of the program are prepared to undertake careers in a variety of environmental science fields, and are also qualified to pursue advanced scientific/professional education. Students select a concentration in ecological science, aquatic ecology, environmental health, human and ecosystem response to climate change, or conservation.

The core principle of sustainability is the desire to meet the basic material needs of the current generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. In order to achieve this goal, we must recognize and address the conflicts and trade-offs involved in balancing environmental integrity, social equity, and economic stability. Such complex work necessarily involves contributions from a wide range of disciplines, and it also requires a re-examination of the relationship between human value systems and cultural practices and the associated long-term implications for the ecosystem. To complete the Sustainability Studies Minor, students take two core courses, INTS 210: Sustainable World and EVPP 480: Sustainability in Action. They also complete at least 8 elective credits from a pre-approved list of courses.

This minor emphasizes sustainable enterprises that are financially properous and seek to benefit the environment and society. The students of this program measure business success based on the triple bottom line, which takes into account how an business impacts prosperity, planet, and people. This minor also stresses the private sector as a critical player in helping solve pressing environmental and social problems, while capitalizing on market mechanisms and competitive opportunities. To complete the Sustainability Enterprise Minor, students take two core courses, EVPP 322: Business and Sustainability and EVPP 480: Sustainability in Action. They also complete at least 8 elective credits from a pre-approved list of courses, which cover policy, economics, business, and social responsibilities.

All data available on Green Leaf program URL below:
http://catalog.gmu.edu/student-services/green-leaf-programs-courses/

Data is for FY16.

All data available on the Green Leaf program can be found at:
http://catalog.gmu.edu/student-services/green-leaf-programs-courses/