Frequently Asked Questions

1) What do people do with an ES major? Majors and minors in environmental studies pursue a wide range of careers, not only in environmental fields but in many other professions—professions complimented by a traditional liberal arts education. Many also go on to advanced study in related fields such as environmental law, public policy, landscape architecture, and environmental education.

2) What if I’m especially interested in one approach to environmental issues, like environmental science or economics? ES majors and minors all have several options for electives within the program; many students select those courses to provide more depth in a particular field of interest. The ES major is also flexible enough to accommodate a double-major, while the minor can be combined with virtually any other major.

3) Is there a “hands on” component to the ES program? Absolutely. From the introductory course, through the environmental science labs, to the senior research seminar you will have frequent opportunities to study outside on our campuses and in the surrounding area. Special programs like our learning communities often take students off-campus, and extended field study courses are frequently offered in the summers or through affiliated programs. Majors will also complete an internship that provides direct exposure to an environmental career or field of their choosing.

4) What kinds of people major/minor in environmental studies? It’s hard to describe the typical ES student, but it’s fair to say they are all passionate about the environment in some way. They come from urban, suburban, and rural backgrounds. Some have extensive outdoor experience while others may have none. The local lake, the lab, and the library might be favorite places for an ES student—but so could a remote campsite in the Boundary Waters or a mountain peak in Colorado. Few come to college intent on a specific environmental career, and many discover their particular passion while they are students.

5) How can I find out more information about the ES program? If you have any questions concerning the program, how to enroll, or what courses to take, please contact your academic advisor or the director of the ES department.