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Environmental Studies, B.A.

College of Arts and Sciences

Prepare to make a positive difference in the environment and sustainability by understanding how science intersects with society, government and the decisions that people make each day.

This program is perfect for students interested in climate change and the environment. You will study biology, chemistry and physics and learn how to use them to explore the natural world. You'll also learn how people and societies work, helping you understand how to develop policies and programs that make the world more sustainable.

Program Highlights

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    Green Quad

    Live in an exclusive learning community on campus that is committed to sustainability and interaction.

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    Environmental Framework

    Gain a solid understanding of the intersection of science and social aspects set in an environmental framework.

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    Beyond the Classroom

    Conduct research alongside fellow students and professors. Field research is an essential part of our school's programs.

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    Engaged Faculty

    Learn from our large and diverse faculty with broad scientific expertise in a variety of specializations.

What You’ll Study

You will explore climate, water, weather, energy, health and sustainability together with courses in the natural sciences. Courses in social sciences, arts and humanities round out your holistic education. With a focus on hypothesis-driven research, you'll gain skills in communication, data analysis, problem solving and ethical considerations.

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

  • Advocacy

    Promoting or defending a cause or issue often using awareness, education and policy change

    Attention to Detail

    Being meticulous and thorough in all aspects of a task or project

    Critical Thinking

    Analyzing and evaluating information to make informed decisions or judgments

  • Data Analysis

    Examining and interpreting information to uncover insights and inform decision making

    Evaluate Policies

    Examining their impact and effectiveness in achieving specific goals or objectives

    Manage Risk

    Identifying potential hazards and implementing measures to mitigate or prevent negative outcomes

Using your degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

Learn how alumni use degrees with outcome data from Gamecock GradStats, a service of the University of South Carolina Career Center.

Potential Careers

  • Sustainability Officer
  • Lobbyist
  • Park Ranger

Job Titles of Alumni

  • Environmental Health Manager
  • Environmental Specialist
  • Environmental Manager

Average Alumni Salary

Five to 10 years after graduation without additional education $72,362

Workplace Settings

  • Earth Sciences
  • Biology
  • Social Work
  • Climatology

Employers of Alumni

  • Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
  • Midlands Environmental Consultants
  • USDA

What I love about environmental studies as a major is that it’s so interdisciplinary. I’ve taken so many different classes and overcome the challenges of learning different sciences. The fact that I can be well-versed from geology to physics is going to be really important for my future career.

Emma Sylves-Berry
Portrait of Emma Sylves-Berry

Is USC Right For You?

There are many reasons we could be your ideal university. There's the award-winning academics, the globally modeled student life, and abundance of study abroad and experiential learning options. Take a closer look at what USC could mean for you.

Degree content is provided for informational purposes only. The Academic Bulletin is the source of record for all degree information.
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