Academics: One Earth, Many Majors!

One of the most frequently asked questions we get is: "I am a ____________ major. What does THAT have to do with environmental studies?!" This question stems from confusion about three very similar, yet contrasting, terms:

• Environmental studies - is a general term that describes any number of approaches to the study of relationships between humans and nature, including the built environment. "ES" includes includes arts and humanities, social sciences, "green architecture," "green business," landscape design, outdoor education, and "green engineering:" that's ALL of us!

• Environmental science - is the study of natural cycles and processes involving soil, plants, water, and air resources. Ecology is its foundation, but related majors include animal science, biology, chemistry, geography, geology, and natural resource sciences. About half of ES students are enrolled in "environmental science" majors.
• Environmental activism - is talking to people about the environment to change their attitudes or actions. Many ES students who are activists major in journalism, government and politics, or communications. About 10% of ES students would describe themselves as"activists."

Through small classes and by living together in Centreville Hall, ES students have the opportunity to make friends and discover new ways of thinking about themselves and the environment around them. In Environmental Studies...

... Scholars can choose courses that fill CORE general education and/or major requirements to explore how different disciplines address environmental study.

... Scholars can actively participate in colloquia (CPSP 118, 218 and 239). Limited to 20 students each, these once-a-week classes are taught by supportive faculty who know everyone by name and are easily accessible after class.

... Scholars can select from among 5-6 field trips each semester, including hiking expeditions in Shenandoah National Park, walking tours of DC and its museums, and educational tours of various types and locations. Many students participate in more than one field trip each semester!

... Scholars can design an internship where they explore possible careers and link their major -- whatever it is! -- to environmental study in CPSP 239E.

In ES, we welcome and encourage a diversity of academic interests and personal backgrounds among our students and staff, and we hope you will soon be among them!