Undergraduate Overview
Students in a winter session class explore the Everglades National Park as part of "The Ecology of Unique Environments."
Learn the science. Live the impact.
If you're looking for a major that lets you get your hands dirty—in the best way possible—you’re in the right place. At UB’s Department of Environment and Sustainability (EVS), you won’t just study the natural world, you’ll experience it.
Our programs combine rigorous coursework with fieldwork, research and real-world problem-solving. Whether you’re drawn to the sciences, sustainability or policy, you’ll find a degree path that aligns with your values and prepares you for careers that matter.
- Fieldwork that goes the distance—from Buffalo to Costa Rica to the Everglades
- Courses like "Ecology of Unique Environments" and "Field Ecology" that get you out of the lecture hall and into the wild
- A tight-knit faculty who know your name and care about your goals
- A growing alumni network working in nonprofits, government agencies, environmental consulting and education
- Hands-on opportunities from day one—research, internships and community outreach you can dive into as early as your first year
Find the right fit
How they compare
- BA in Environmental Sustainability: Strong foundation in social sciences and humanities, with a good foundation in natural sciences
- BS in Environmental Studies: Strong foundation in natural sciences, with a good foundation in social sciences and humanities
- BS in Environmental Science: Deep emphasis on biology, physical and chemical sciences, math, statistics and geospatial techniques
Minors that add purpose to any major
Ready for hands-on experience and real-world connections? Here's what you can jump into at UB:
- Internships: Our department’s environmental internships focus on four key areas: environmental resources, policy, education and sustainability. We work with over 70 organizations to place students, and more than a third have hired our students for part-time or full-time positions.
- Study Abroad: Explore rainforests, glaciers, coral reefs and other ecosystems around the world. See how scientists and communities are working to protect the planet.
- Research: Work on projects related to ecology, climate change and sustainability—often with faculty in your own department.
- Student Groups and Clubs: Get involved with student-led organizations focused on the environment, sustainability and the outdoors.
- Letchworth Teaching Forest: A 34-acre forest right on North Campus. Yes, really. It's a living classroom where you can see textbook lessons come to life.
