Interdisciplinary Studies
The Interdisciplinary Studies program in Environmental Sciences at Johns Hopkins University empowers students to address complex environmental challenges through a multifaceted academic approach. By integrating knowledge from natural sciences, policy studies, ethics, and the humanities, students develop a broad yet coherent understanding of environmental systems and human impact. The curriculum encourages students to critically examine issues such as climate change, resource management, sustainability, and environmental justice, while also considering the scientific, social, and cultural dimensions of these topics. Students are guided to craft individualized pathways that reflect their academic interests and career aspirations.
This highly flexible program allows students to choose coursework across departments such as earth sciences, political science, public health, economics, and philosophy. With mentorship from faculty advisors, students design a personalized curriculum that supports both disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary breadth. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving, collaborative learning, and research-based inquiry. Opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and community-based projects further enrich the academic experience, bridging theory and practice. By graduation, students are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to environmental solutions at both local and global scales, with a strong foundation in ethical reasoning and cross-disciplinary communication.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Interdisciplinary Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 02 January 2026
- Location: Johns Hopkins University, United States
- Field of Study: Environmental Sciences
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Environment and Society
- Introduction to Environmental Studies
- Scientific Principles of Sustainability
- Academic Writing and Interdisciplinary Thinking
- Global Environmental Challenges
Year 2 – Disciplinary Depth and Research Skills
- Environmental Ethics or Environmental Economics
- Introduction to Environmental Policy
- Quantitative Methods or Statistics in Social Sciences
- Environmental Field Methods
Year 3 – Thematic Focus and Applied Learning
- Elective: Climate Change and Society or Urban Ecology
- Independent Study or Research Practicum
- Environmental Justice and Equity
- Science, Technology, and Environment
Year 4 – Capstone and Integration
- Senior Interdisciplinary Seminar
- Capstone Research Project or Policy Analysis
- Elective: Environmental Communication or Risk Assessment
- Internship or Community-Engaged Learning
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this interdisciplinary program bring a unique skill set to careers that demand both analytical rigor and cross-sector insight. They are well-suited for roles in environmental consulting, policy development, nonprofit environmental advocacy, and sustainability coordination, where the ability to synthesize knowledge across domains is critical. Alumni also work in government agencies, think tanks, or research institutions focusing on climate, land use, energy, or conservation. Many pursue advanced degrees in environmental law, urban planning, public policy, or ecological sciences. Their interdisciplinary training prepares them to navigate complexity and contribute to strategic environmental decision-making in both local and global contexts.
Why Choose This Program
This program is designed for students who seek an educational experience that crosses traditional academic boundaries and engages with the world’s most urgent environmental issues. At Johns Hopkins University, students benefit from a learning environment that values intellectual flexibility, evidence-based reasoning, and public impact. The interdisciplinary structure encourages students to think systemically and to understand how environmental challenges intersect with politics, economics, health, and culture. With access to world-class faculty, research resources, and real-world application opportunities, students gain the tools and perspective needed to become effective changemakers in an increasingly interconnected and environmentally conscious world.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 410 516 8000
Email: admissions@jhu.edu
Address: Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
