About Environmental Studies at CSUSB
What is the relationship between humans and the environment — and how do we protect both?
That’s the big question at the heart of Environmental Studies at CSUSB.
This interdisciplinary B.A. program brings together the natural sciences, social sciences and humanities to help you explore:
- How people interact with ecosystems
- How policy, law, and economics shape our environmental decisions
- How to develop sustainable solutions to complex environmental challenges
In the Environmental Studies major, you’ll dive into topics like:
- Ecology and environmental science
- Environmental law, policy, and planning
- Natural resource management and conservation
- Pollution control and sustainability
- Climate science, economics, and ethics
You’ll gain the ability to:
- Analyze environmental issues from multiple perspectives
- Apply scientific and analytical tools to real-world problems
- Design effective policies that balance environmental, economic and social needs
- Think critically and act responsibly as a future leader in environmental change
Choose the academic path that aligns with your goals:
Environmental Sustainability
Perfect for students who want a broad, flexible liberal arts program. You’ll build a strong foundation in environmental studies while exploring related interests in policy, planning, ethics, or communication. This is ideal for students pursuing careers in advocacy, education, nonprofit work, or sustainability consulting.
Environmental Systems
Designed for students who want science-intensive preparation for graduate school or careers in technical, lab-based, or fieldwork-focused roles. Courses include:
- Biology, chemistry, and physics
- Geosciences and climatology
- Environmental health
- Statistics and mathematical modeling
This track is well-suited for those planning to pursue advanced degrees in the natural sciences or careers in research, environmental monitoring, or government agencies.
Whether you're looking to shape policy, lead in sustainability, or pursue scientific discovery, Environmental Studies at CSUSB gives you the tools to make a lasting impact — in your community and across the globe.
Careers in Environmental Studies
Here are some roles open to graduates with a degree in environmental studies:
- Environmental scientist/educator/consultant/engineer
- Ecologist
- Sustainability specialist
- Environmental policy analyst
- Conservation scientist
- Natural resource manager
- Renewable energy specialist
- Urban planner
- Environmental health and safety specialist
- Restoration planner
Sample Courses
Environment and Society
An interdisciplinary study of relationships between social and natural systems comprising modern environmental issues. This course is a core requirement of the Environmental Studies major and minor.
Watershed Hydrology and Management
Examination of the basic principles of surface hydrology: relationships between atmospheric, surface and groundwater phenomena; streamflow and flood prediction; water supply and quality. Surface hydrology will be observed using the watershed scale to determine how human-environmental relationships in one reach of the watershed may impact water resources in other reaches of the same watershed. The Clean Water Act and localized water management strategies, including stormwater best management practices, will also be discussed.
Environmental Sustainability
Exploration of how human activities can be altered to meet the needs of both current and future generations to ensure long-term sustainability of the Earth's environmental systems and resources. Topics include sustainable approaches to agricultural production, urban development, resource conservation, and stakeholder inclusion across varying geographical scales including the CSUSB campus and surrounding communities.
Meet Alum Ashton Fowler
Opportunities for Students
At CSUSB, students in Geography, Environmental Studies, and related programs don’t just study the world — they engage with it. From scholarships and research to fieldwork and conferences, you’ll gain the support and experience to thrive in your academic and professional journey.
Scholarships & Honors
- Rick and Brenda Garcia Scholarship and Dan Filadelfia Memorial Scholarship
– For students pursuing the Minor or Certificate in Geographic Information Science (GISci) - Annual Outstanding Graduate Award
- Departmental Honors Program
– Recognizing exceptional academic achievement and scholarly engagement
Hands-On Experience & Fieldwork
- Work Experience: Gain practical skills through internships and volunteer opportunities with government agencies, nonprofits, and private organizations
- Research Opportunities: Collaborate with faculty on in-depth projects through supervised research courses
- Experiential Learning: Get outside the classroom with outdoor fieldwork, community-based engagement, policy projects, and environmental advocacy
Professional Development
Students are encouraged to present their work and connect with professionals at top regional and national conferences, including:
- Association of American Geographers (AAG)
- Association of Pacific Coast Geographers (APCG)
- California Geographical Society (CGS)
- ESRI User Conference
Cutting-Edge Learning Spaces
Study and conduct research using state-of-the-art facilities, including:
- A modern computer lab with high-performance machines
- Access to industry-standard GIS and remote sensing software
At CSUSB, you'll develop the knowledge, technical skills and real-world experience to make an impact — locally and globally.
Similar to Environmental Studies
With more than 50 undergraduate degress at CSUSB, we offer a variety of programs that reflect the Coyotes' passion for learning. Check out where your curiosity will take you at CSUSB.