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Sustainability Studies Minor

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Explore the Balance of Environmental Integrity, Economic Prosperity, and Social Equity

Sustainability involves balancing environmental integrity, economic prosperity, and social equity to meet the needs of both present and future generations. The Sustainability Studies Minor examines the interconnectedness of environmental justice, economic vitality, and social equity through an interdisciplinary lens, blending social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. This minor encourages students from all academic backgrounds to explore the three pillars of sustainability—economic, social, and environmental—beyond their primary fields of study. Additionally, it offers valuable opportunities for hands-on experiences that can lead to fulfilling careers after graduation.

To complete the minor, students will need to earn a total of 18-19 credits, with a minimum of 12 credits completed at Westfield State University. The curriculum includes foundation courses, science courses, and specialized classes focused on sustainability and planning, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests. An elective from another department can also be included, with guidance from faculty to ensure it complements their academic goals. For more information or academic advising regarding the minor, students are encouraged to reach out to the Chair of GPS.

Program Highlights

  • Required courses - 18 to 19 credits
  • Engage in real-world projects to prepare for your career
  • Tailor your minor with foundational, science, and specialized courses
  • Get guidance from faculty to align your course selections with your goals

Course Requirements

Program Description

What is sustainability?

Sustainability is balancing environmental integrity, economic prosperity, and social equity without compromising the needs of future generations.

Why Sustainability Studies Minor?

The Sustainability Studies minor explores the complex interplay among environmental justice and protection, economic vitality, and social equity, through interdisciplinary, action and field-based learning that blends the social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. The minor is designed to encourage undergraduate students from any discipline to explore the three pillars of sustainability (economic, social, and environmental) beyond coursework in their major. It offers students broad opportunities for internships and experiences that can lead to fulfilling jobs upon graduation.

Requirements for the Sustainability Studies Minor

Requirements for the Sustainability Studies Minor is a total of 18-19 credits, twelve (12) of which must be taken at Westfield State University as follows:

Part 1:  Foundation courses:  Two GPS Courses (6 credits)

  •  Introduction to Community Planning
  •  Environment, Sustainability, and Society

 

Part 2: Science Courses: Any one of the following Courses (3 - 4 credits)

  •  Principles of Environmental Science
  •    Physical Geography 

 

Part 3:  Sustainability and Planning Courses:  Any two of the following GPS Courses (6 credits)

  •  Climate Change
  •  Contemporary Global Issues
  •  Land Use/Resource Planning
  •  Sustainable Energy (after prerequisite GPS 0106)
  •  Political Ecology
  •  Planning Green and Sustainable Cities

 

Part 4:  Elective Course: Any one Course from Other Department

Faculty members may advise the course selection based on the need and background of individual students. With the approval of the Chair of GPS, and upper-level course (200 or 300 level) that is offered by another department may substitute for no more than two of the GPS courses. Students seeking more information about the minor or needing academic advice about completing the minor should contact the Chair of GPS.

For course descriptions and additional prerequisite recommendations, please see WSU catalog at

 

 

What Can You Do With a Sustainability Minor?

A Sustainability Minor can lead to a variety of career paths and opportunities. Here are some options:

  • Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Specialist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Environmental Educator
  • Policy Analyst
  • Renewable Energy Analyst
  • Sustainability Coordinator
  • Urban Planner
The electric vehicle charger in the Commuter Lot. It is an orange machine and flanked by two, red safety pillars.

Real-World Experience: Apply Your Learning and Build Your Future

Through field-based classes and regional travel you’ll have numerous opportunities to apply your classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Engage with the local community to make a difference while acquiring valuable experience and skills in planning, advocacy, research, and more. Learn from experts in advanced technologies such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), drones, remote sensing, and Global Positioning Systems (GPS), which can become the foundation of your future career.

Urban and Regional Planning Thesis Project

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Sustainability Studies Minor