Environmental Studies BA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Environmental Studies BA at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) invites you to explore the complex interplay between human societies and the natural world. This undergraduate degree is designed for students passionate about addressing pressing environmental and land-use issues, equipping you with a multidisciplinary toolkit to understand and tackle challenges in ecology, policy, and sustainability. You will delve into critical areas such as environmental impact analysis, geographic information systems (GIS), and environmental ethics, preparing you for impactful careers or further academic pursuits.

This full-time, on-campus program, studied over four years, offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates scientific understanding with social and ethical perspectives. You will engage with research methods, learn to analyse environmental policy, and develop critical thinking through courses in environmental arts and humanities. A significant component of your studies will involve upper-division electives, allowing you to tailor your learning. You will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree, prepared for diverse roles in environmental consulting, conservation, urban planning, and public service.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Environmental Studies BA program provides a comprehensive foundation in ecological principles, environmental science, and research methods. Students will explore critical topics such as environmental impact analysis, chemical interactions within ecosystems, and the ethical dimensions of environmental issues. The curriculum also offers a wide array of electives, allowing students to delve into specialized areas like environmental history, policy, psychology, and social justice.

1 Preparation for the Major (15 Units)

Introduction to Biology/Ecology Compulsory
Introduction to Environmental Studies Compulsory
Matter, Molecules, Life, and the Environment I [Physical Science] Compulsory
Introduction to Physical Science Compulsory
Research Methods: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Compulsory
The Earth and Its Place in the Universe Compulsory

2 Major Requirements (36 Units)

Environmental Impact Analysis Compulsory
Chemicals and the Environment Compulsory
Ethics and the Environment Compulsory
Capstone in Environmental Studies Compulsory
Ancient Mexican Society and Art Elective
Medical Ethnography Elective
Local Archaeological Practice Elective
Special Topics in Environmental Studies Elective
ENVS 495 Elective
ENVS 498 Elective
Environmental History of the United States Elective
U.S. Environmental Literature Elective
Philosophy of Technology Elective
Digital Arts and the Environment Elective
Art and Science: Historical and Contemporary Practice Elective
Art, Science and Technology Elective

3 Upper-Division Requirements (12 Units)

Environmental Impact Analysis Compulsory
Chemicals and the Environment Compulsory
Ethics and the Environment Compulsory
Capstone in Environmental Studies Compulsory

4 Upper-Division Electives (24 Units)

Environment, Population, and Culture Elective
Environmental Health and Justice Elective
Medical Ethnography Elective
Community Ethnobotany Elective
Native American Archaeological Monitoring Elective
Border Water Conflicts Elective
Economics of the Environment and Natural Resources Elective
Environmental and Land-Use Design Elective
Special Topics in Environmental Studies Elective
ENVS 495 Elective
ENVS 498 Elective
Patterns of San Diego County Elective
Nature and Society in California Elective
Environment, Development and Sustainability Elective
Food Systems and Emerging Markets Elective
Environmental History of the United States Elective
Children and the Environment Elective
Technology and Social Change Elective
Making Public Policy Elective
Green Planet Politics Elective
U.S. Environmental Policy Elective
Resource Wars Elective
Environmental Psychology Elective
Social Justice and the Environment Elective
Gender and Development Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 68,424.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on San Marcos Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

78%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Aerospace Research & AcademiaAlternative Aviation Fuel & SustainabilityAviation Safety & RegulationEarly Childhood & Primary EducationMaritime & ShippingRail & Mass TransitSpecial & Inclusive EducationSupply Chain & Commodity TradingTransport Engineering & InfrastructureVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

California State University San Marcos

City of Encinitas

County of San Diego

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)

United State Army

Why Study Environmental Studies BA at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM)

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Fast Application response time

California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) typically responds to applications within a week, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Environmental Studies BA at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM)

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the term and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require a separate permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English requirements, you need a Duolingo score of 95, a TOEFL score of at least 61, or equivalent scores in IELTS or PTE. Please check each test's specific sub-score requirements.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Environmental Policy Analysts, GIS Specialists, Conservation Scientists, Environmental Educators, or Urban Planners.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Environmental Studies Program covers essential topics like physical and life sciences as well as social sciences and policy. It emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to understanding environmental issues.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Environmental Studies BA program accepts students in January and August. Please ensure to apply for admission before the deadlines for these intakes.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️