Elon University offers both an A.B. and B.S. degree in Environmental Studies, blending scientific foundations with an appreciation of society’s needs and concerns. As we face the future, it becomes clear that environmental challenges are not isolated. The quality of our water, the integrity of our coasts, the health of our forests have shaped the world in which we live. The Earth’s capacity to provide is not without limits and is challenged by demands of our human population. Though the challenge is global, solutions must be found through local, national and international actions grounded in a renewed appreciation for the Earth. Elon University guides students to meet the challenges of today and to become creative and visionary stewards who will lead us to the Earth of tomorrow.
In Elon’s program, students take a balanced, interdisciplinary core of classes grounded in ecological understanding. The strength of the program is from the emphasis placed on considering the environment from many perspectives – for example, discussing water resources in science, social science and humanities classes. Students working toward the B.S. degree choose a concentration either in environmental science or society and the environment. The A.B. degree is designed to complement interests in traditional disciplines through minors or a second major, building an environmental focus.
The program culminates in a capstone senior seminar, in which students develop a community-based project. In recent seminars, students designed a river corridor protection plan. Students are also required to complete an internship and are encouraged to participate in independent research. Students are also eligible to apply for the Elon College Fellows Program.
Featuring Dr. Robert B. Jackson, Nicholas Chair and Director of the Center on Global Environmental Change at the Nicholas School of the Environment Professor, Biology Department, Duke University.
This Forum is for all members of our community, including Elon, other academic institutions, local government, local businesses, builders, developers, educators and citizens with a vision for a sustainable community. To download the 2011 forum brochure, click here or go to www.elon.edu/agreentomorrow.
The Department of Environmental Studies’ 2011 graduating class took on real projects related to the environment and sustainability during their fall 2010 senior seminar course. These projects involved detailed planning, analysis and implementation to achieve goals ranging from application of biosolids to conducting carbon audits.
Click on the links below to view the power point presentations associated with their projects.
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