Environmental Studies Bachelor's Degree

Students looking at environmental readings

Making discoveries that will change the world

Environmental studies combines physical, biological and informational scientific disciplines, as well as social science and policy foundations, to investigate and raise public awareness around environmental phenomena and to help solve complex problems. Environmental studies covers a range of subject matter which applies to a variety of careers and opportunities for post-graduate education.

A professional with a background in environmental studies might:

Perform soil or water quality tests as part of a construction site inspection or for conservation and environmental health assessments.
Advise policymakers on issues related to environmental health or land use
Research the impact of environmental phenomena or pollution on underserved communities
Work with businesses or organizations to reduce harmful environmental waste

What career possibilities does a background in environmental studies offer?

Environmental studies provides the groundwork for a variety of careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in environmental science-related occupations is projected to grow 11 percent by 2026.

Environmental Studies - Natural Resource Management, Climate Change Analysis, Environmental Health, Sustainability, Water Resources, Environmental Law

Is an environmental studies education right for you?

Environmental studies education provides students with the tools they need to investigate environmental phenomena, including GIS, soil sampling, and freshwater ecology, to policy-making and social science.

Environmental studies students at KU are encouraged to participate in experiential learning opportunities including study abroad, undergraduate research, co-curricular projects and internships. Environmental studies undergraduate students are involved in the intellectual life of the university and connected to their surrounding community.

Helpful information

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Questions?

Call 913-897-8539 to schedule an appointment with an advisor.

What environmental studies programs are available at the KU Edwards Campus?

Undergraduate environmental studies programs at the KU Edwards Campus include BA, BGS, BS and minor options that are designed to prepare students for lifelong learning, leadership and success. See the choices below and download the program guides for more information.

KU Edwards Campus also offers a master’s degree (PMS) and graduate certificate in environmental geology.

B.A. in Environmental Studies hour breakdown 40 credit hours - 12 hours of electives, 28 hours of required courses

B.G.S. in Environmental Studies hour breakdown 40 credit hours - 12 hours of electives, 28 hours of required courses

B.S. in Environmental Studies hour breakdown 66 credit hours, 12 hours of electives, 54 hours of required courses

Minor in Environmental Studies hour breakdown 18 credit hours - 3 hours of electives, 15 hours of required courses

*Required courses for the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Environmental Studies includes proficiency in one foreign language through the fourth level.

**Required courses for the Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) in Environmental Studies includes a secondary area of study, as well as completion of an approved career preparation course.

The KU Edwards Campus also offers an environmental studies minor. Visit our minors page to learn more.

Why a KU environmental studies degree?

Flexible

Flexible course formats
Major concentrations match student interest with experienced faculty
MetroKC tuition rate available for Missouri students

Quality

Credentialed, experienced faculty
Two-time recipient of Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Advising from KU’s College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
KU is one of 38 public university members of the prestigious Association of American Universities, a group of America's leading research universities