Two environmental studies students crouch on the bank of a river to examine a sample. Two environmental studies students crouch on the bank of a river to examine a sample. Two environmental studies students crouch on the bank of a river to examine a sample.

Environmental Studies
Major

Overview of environmental studies

Together, we can solve climate change. As an environmental studies major, you'll dive into subjects like energy and the environment, water resource management, environmental justice and environmental law, economics and health. You'll help preserve the Great Lakes, tackle algal blooms and leverage your expertise and research to impact decision makers in Lansing. 

AT A GLANCE

Degree Type
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Format
On Campus
Credit Hours
49 - 51 Credit Hours
Go To Why This Program Program Highlights Careers & Outcomes

What you'll learn as a environmental studies major

The planet needs expert problem solvers with the knowledge, skills and ingenuity to tackle climate and environmental issues. If you want to help solve the biggest problems and challenges facing our planet, we'll give you the skills you need to lead the way. You'll learn to address today's environmental problems and help society prepare for a sustainable and resilient future.

In your studies, you'll explore:

  • Problem-solving for sustainability.
  • Water resources management.
  • Wilderness issues and policy.
  • Climatology and climate change.
  • Biology, chemistry and geography.

Plus, at CMU, you’re in the ideal location. You'll be close to environmental job opportunities in Michigan's water-rich north and close to decision makers in Lansing. It’s the optimal place to start on your journey in making a difference as an environmental expert.

Courses What Will Transfer DEPARTMENT INFORMATION

Why choose to study the environment at CMU?

As an environmental studies major, you’ll have opportunities to:

  • Start making a difference: Participate in research with the Institute for Great Lakes Research, with support from the Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment and more. 
  • Choose your path: Customize your major with courses about water, energy, sustainability, resiliency, urban planning and more! 
  • Get real experience (before graduation!): Prepare for environmental careers with a senior capstone experience. You'll learn practical skills and showcase your abilities to future employers.  
  • Find your people: Get to work with Campus Grows, the CMU Sierra Club and Central Sustainability to make an impact you can really see.

Careers for the environmental studies major

You’ll graduate with the expertise and skills to promote sustainability, protect ecosystems and address the world’s most critical environmental challenges. Graduates go on to become environmental consultants, conservation scientists, educators, urban planners, water resource specialists and much more, all working to make a greener future.

Career Projected Salary
Sustainability Specialist $74,528
Research Scientist $74,342
Alternative Energy Manager $72,418
Research Analyst $85,720
Biostatisticians $98,920
Environmental Engineer $100,090
Climate Change Policy Analysts $76,480
Environmental Consultant $76,530
An environmental studies researcher crouches and documents data in the field.
An environmental studies major stands waist-deep in water and holds a sampling net while gathering animal samples in one of Michigan's Great Lakes.

Institute for Great Lakes Research

Start helping protect and preserve our Earth, right here at home with the Institute for Great Lakes Research. Research conversation genetics, fisheries, invasive species, aquatic population modeling, landscape ecology and more alongside your peers and faculty mentors. 

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