
Environmental studies is an interdisciplinary field fostering understanding of the natural physical and biological setting in
which life on Earth exists. It integrates scientific study of ecosystems, pollution, climate, energy, and other environmental
and natural resource matters on a global, regional or local scale with cultural and policy-related study of politics, economics,
sociology, history, and law. It is an excellent basis for students interested in pursuing an M.A./M.S. or Ph.D. in a related field.
The Environmental Studies major is designed to provide students with a broad exposure to topics related to the environment
and to provide knowledge and skills to address major environmental issues. For more information on the Environmental Studies
major, contact Dr. Susan Buck in 219 Graham, call 256-0520, email sjbuck@uncg.edu, or go to www.uncg.edu/env.
New career opportunities in the environmental area are created every day. For an overview, students should consult the Environmental Careers Organization (www.ecojobs.com) or The Complete Guide to Environmental Careers in the 21st Century (Island Press, 1998). Careers include work in the natural sciences (marine biologist, forester, ecologist, game warden), social sciences (government anthropologist, staff jobs for land conservancies or Sierra Club, policy analysts, lobbyists), education (environmental science educators in public schools or institutions such as the North Carolina Aquarium), sustainability (building design and certification, recycling coordinators), environmental law, and journalism. Because Environmental Studies is interdisciplinary, career options vary tremendously based on each student’s interests.