Bachelor of Science in Sustainability


Students who major in Sustainability study the science behind the impact of human activities on the environment, and learn to develop sustainability solutions through the application of new technologies, business strategy, and social policy.

In the BS in Sustainability program students will take courses that provide in-depth disciplinary knowledge and skills in the interdisciplinary field of Sustainability, as well as electives from courses offered in other programs. In addition, students will complete an internship and an independent Capstone project. In semester 6 and 7, students will have the opportunity to choose a concentration to specialize in one of the three pillars of Sustainability (economy, society or environment).

Specializations

Program Goals

  1. To educate students with the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to address the interconnected global challenges of Sustainability, including climate change, environmental degradation, loss of biodiversity, poverty and inequality.

  2. To provide our students with a solid understanding of the ethical principles of sustainability and how they are connected to practical issues of social justice, and environmental-economic equity.

  3. To enable our students with the capacity to address the national and international environmental, societal and economic challenges facing us in the 21st century.

  4. For our students to have a grounded understanding of how the 3 pillars of sustainability are interrelated, and be able to use this knowledge in systems thinking for research and for practical problem-solving.

  5. To give our students the experience of working in an interdisciplinary way and to have the capability to work productively and effectively within cross-disciplinary teams.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

  1. Conceptual Knowledge: Apply the principles of sustainability in various environmental, social and economic contexts. (Level 7 of QFE: Knowledge)

  2. Communication Skills: Communicate confidently and effectively on the subject of sustainability using advanced written, oral and visual communication skills. (Level 7 of QFE: Skills, Autonomy and responsibility)

  3. Problem Solving & Critical Thinking: Assess information from various sources to develop logical arguments for practical and sustainable solutions to environmental problems. (Level 7 of QFE: Knowledge, Skills, Autonomy and responsibility)

  4. Research Skills: Apply scientific methods and tools to collect and analyze data on real world problems relating to sustainability. (Level 7 of QFE: Knowledge, Skills, Autonomy and responsibility)

  5. Environmental Awareness and Responsibility: Analyze contemporary environmental issues at both local and global scales and incorporate socio-cultural norms while taking on professional responsibilities in environmental stewardship. (Level 7 of QFE: Autonomy and responsibility, Role in context, Self-development)

  6. Practical and Professional Engagement: Operate professionally, ethically and autonomously in the workplace as individuals or as part of a team, or as the leader of a team. (Level 7 of QFE: Autonomy and responsibility, Role in context, Self-development)

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