Minor in Sustainability

UB Sustainability students learn how to make bread from scratch in the mountains of Costa Rica.

Sustainability students learn how to make bread from scratch in the mountains of Costa Rica (📸 N. Henshue)

Make an Impact —A perfect enhancement to any major

Are you passionate about protecting the planet? Want your degree to make a difference? A minor in Sustainability adds purpose to your path—no matter what your major is. From business and engineering to the social sciences and arts, sustainability connects your field to the future.

Why choose a Sustainability Minor?

In today’s world, every industry needs professionals who can think sustainably. This minor equips you with the tools to understand the challenges of climate change, environmental justice and sustainable development—and how to create solutions that work.

With a Sustainability minor, you’ll:

  • Learn how to balance environmental, economic and social goals
  • Explore big-picture topics like green energy, food systems and eco-innovation
  • Build hands-on skills through real-world projects and internships

Whether you're planning a career in environmental policy, nonprofit leadership, corporate sustainability or research, this minor helps you stand out.

Program Snapshot

Total Credits: 8 courses (24 credits)
Delivery: In-person
Advising: Connect with an Environmental Studies Advisor for support throughout

Course Requirements

Core Courses (15 credits – all required)

  • Introduction to Environment and Sustainability Studies
  • Sustainability Methods
  • Environmental Internship
  • Environmental Justice
  • Social Sci/Humanities Core. Choose one:
    •    DMS 201 Green Media
    •  Climate Change and Sustainability
    •  History of Nature
    • Science, Religion and Nature
    • Environment and Society

Specialization Courses (9 credits)

Your specialization allows you to focus on what matters most to you—what we call "your jam." You can choose from a pre-approved list of electives or petition for customized coursework. See an Environmental Studies Advisor for details.

Pre-approved electives include:

  • Politics of Sustainability
  • Sustainable Food and Agriculture
  • Water and Society
  • Energy, Environment and Society
  • Environmental Problems
  • Sustainability and Global Climate Change Politics
  • Business, Sustainability and Society
  • Human Impacts on Ancient Environments
  • Carbon Reduction Challenge
  • Grant Writing for Non-Profits

Explore more Environmental programs

Interested in diving even deeper? Check out these degree options:

Ready to take the next step?

Apply today and start building a better world—one course at a time. 🌎🌱

Contact

Have questions about the Sustainability minor or need help planning your coursework? Reach out!