

The Environmental Studies Bachelor of Arts program at the University of North Carolina provides students with a comprehensive understanding of ecological systems, sustainability, and environmental policy. The curriculum emphasizes environmental science, resource management, policy analysis, and community engagement, preparing learners to address complex environmental challenges. Students develop analytical skills, research competence, critical thinking abilities, and applied environmental knowledge, equipping them to pursue careers in environmental management, policy, and conservation.
Throughout the program, learners participate in coursework, fieldwork, and applied projects that integrate theoretical understanding with practical environmental applications. Faculty mentorship guides students in data analysis, environmental assessment, and policy evaluation, enabling them to apply classroom knowledge to real world sustainability and conservation initiatives. By combining theory with applied practice, students strengthen research expertise, problem solving abilities, policy analysis skills, and applied environmental competence, ensuring they are prepared for professional, governmental, and community-focused roles in environmental studies.
Year 1 Foundations in Environmental Studies
• Introduction to Environmental Science and Sustainability
• Ecology and Biodiversity
• Academic Writing and Research
• Fundamentals of Environmental Policy
Year 2 Core Environmental Studies
• Environmental Chemistry and Geoscience
• Resource Management and Conservation
• Environmental Law and Ethics
• Applied Research Methods in Environmental Studies
Year 3 Advanced Applications
• Climate Change and Sustainability Strategies
• Environmental Impact Assessment
• Environmental Data Analysis and Modeling
• Applied Project in Environmental Studies
Year 4 Integration and Capstone
• Environmental Policy Development
• Advanced Conservation and Management
• Capstone Project in Environmental Studies
• Professional Development and Portfolio
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles that require expertise in environmental management, sustainability, and policy analysis. Many pursue careers as environmental analysts, conservation specialists, sustainability consultants, and policy advisors, applying analytical, research, and strategic skills to ecological and organizational challenges. Others work in governmental agencies, nonprofits, research institutions, or environmental consulting firms, conducting assessments, developing policies, and implementing conservation projects. The program’s emphasis on applied environmental knowledge, research competence, and problem solving equips graduates to excel in professional, governmental, and advisory roles.
This program is ideal for students who want to combine theoretical knowledge of environmental sciences with practical skills in sustainability, policy, and ecological management. Its curriculum emphasizes environmental analysis, resource management, policy evaluation, and applied projects, providing learners with the tools to address environmental challenges effectively. Faculty mentorship supports students in developing analytical expertise, research skills, problem solving abilities, and applied environmental competence. Through fieldwork, applied projects, and capstone experiences, learners strengthen research skills, analytical abilities, problem solving competence, and applied environmental expertise, preparing them for impactful careers in environmental management, conservation, policy development, and sustainability consulting.
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA