.png&w=1920&q=75)
Environmental Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies at Brown University offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary four-year education focused on the complex relationships between humans and the environment. The program explores key areas such as climate change, biodiversity, environmental policy, and sustainable development, providing students with the tools to analyze ecological systems while understanding the social, political, and economic contexts that shape them. Through a balanced curriculum that integrates the natural sciences with the humanities and social sciences, students learn to think critically about environmental challenges from multiple perspectives.
This program emphasizes research, experiential learning, and community engagement. Students participate in fieldwork, policy analysis, and collaborative projects addressing real-world environmental issues. They are encouraged to combine their studies with interests in public health, urban planning, international development, or science communication. The open curriculum at Brown supports academic flexibility, enabling students to tailor their coursework while benefiting from close faculty mentorship and access to campus initiatives focused on sustainability and environmental justice. Graduates emerge as well-rounded thinkers equipped to lead in an era of ecological urgency and innovation.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Environmental Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Brown University, United States
- Field of Study: Environmental Sciences
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Environmental Thinking
- Introduction to Environmental Studies
- Earth Systems Science
- Environmental History and Ethics
- Statistics for Environmental Research
Year 2 – Core Methods and Perspectives
- Environmental Policy and Decision-Making
- Ecology and Conservation
- Environmental Justice
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Year 3 – Applied Topics and Global Contexts
- Climate Change and Society
- Sustainable Urban Systems
- Environmental Economics
- Elective: Marine or Forest Ecology
Year 4 – Research and Leadership
- Senior Capstone Project or Thesis
- Environmental Communication
- Advanced Seminar in Sustainability
- Elective: Global Environmental Politics
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Environmental Studies program are well-positioned for impactful careers that demand critical thinking, scientific literacy, and social awareness. They work in roles such as environmental policy analysts, sustainability coordinators, climate researchers, and conservation specialists. Many find positions in nonprofit organizations, government agencies, urban planning departments, or consulting firms, where they address environmental regulation, community resilience, or corporate sustainability. Others pursue advanced study in environmental science, law, or public affairs. With its interdisciplinary training, this program prepares students to lead in addressing some of the world’s most urgent environmental and societal challenges.
Why Choose This Program
Brown University’s Environmental Studies program stands out for its integrated approach, blending ecological knowledge with an understanding of human systems. Students benefit from an academic culture that promotes curiosity, collaboration, and real-world engagement. The program emphasizes both intellectual depth and practical experience through research opportunities, internships, and local/global partnerships. With access to faculty experts, sustainability-focused initiatives, and the freedom to shape their academic path, students are empowered to explore meaningful questions and design solutions. For those seeking to make a tangible difference in the environment and society, this program offers a flexible, rigorous, and purpose-driven education.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 401 863 1000
Email: admissions@brown.edu
Address: University of Brown, Providence, RI 02912, United States
