Bachelor of Social and Environmental Sustainability

A Multi-Angle View of Global Issues

Unlike traditional degrees that stay within one subject, this course brings together ideas from environmental science, economics, and sociology to show how different parts of society impact the earth. You might spend one morning studying the ethics of indigenous land rights and the next learning how marketing influences consumer waste. By looking at problems through many "lenses," you learn that a environmental solution only works if it also makes sense for the people and businesses involved.

Learning through Action and Internships

Your time at UC will be defined by "doing" rather than just listening to lectures. The degree includes a compulsory internship course (PACE295) where you work with local businesses or community groups to solve a real sustainability problem. You might help a local startup reduce its carbon footprint or assist a non-profit in organizing a social justice campaign. These projects help you build a professional network and see how your classroom theories apply to the workplace.

Choosing Your Impact Area

To make your degree personal, you choose one of four major specializations: Sustainable Business, Enterprise and Economics; Environmental Policy, Governance and Social Justice; Indigenous Knowledge and Sustainable Partnerships; or Social Action, Community and Global Development. Whether you want to change corporate culture from the inside or advocate for better government laws, your chosen major allows you to focus on the specific tools you need for your future career.

A Pathway to Purposeful Careers

Because the world is increasingly focused on "going green" and social responsibility, graduates are in high demand across many industries. You could find yourself working as an environmental advisor for a construction firm, a policy analyst for the government, or an advocate for an international aid organization. The broad skill set you develop—from systems thinking to public communication—prepares you to lead change in whatever field you choose.