Bachelor's Degree in Environmental and Sustainability Studies
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
The bachelor's degree program in Environmental & Sustainability Studies is perfect for students passionate about understanding and addressing environmental challenges through science, policy, and sustainable practices. Graduates develop expertise in areas like ecosystem management, environmental policy, and sustainable resource use, preparing them for careers as environmental consultants, sustainability coordinators, or policy analysts in sectors like conservation, government, and corporate sustainability.
Program Overview
Be a catalyst for change with our Environmental & Sustainability Studies bachelor's degree, a program designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to address pressing environmental challenges. Combining insights from science, policy, and social studies, this interdisciplinary program explores sustainable practices, environmental justice, and resource management. The ENS B.A. degree will provide students with a broad liberal-arts education in environmental studies within the context of sustainability. The ENS B.A. was designed to be compatible with other disciplinary subjects so students can double major or minor with the ENS B.A. ENS students will obtain the fundamental knowledge required to understand the relationships that exist between the environment and society, important and pressing environmental problems facing the world today, and better solutions for addressing those issues. Through hands-on projects and collaborative learning, you'll develop solutions for creating a more sustainable future. Join a program where your passion for the planet becomes the foundation for meaningful action and a brighter future.
Related Careers
- Environmental non-profit organization
- State, federal, and international research foundations
- Corporate Social responsibility/sustainability professionals
- Natural sciences managers
- Sustainability consultancies and management
- Environmental and sustainability journalists
- Environmental justice advocates
- Environmental scientists
- Environmental economist
- Parks and recreation management
- Green building professionals
- Sustainable agriculture specialists
- Green economy and climate change experts
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2026
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
The Environmental and Sustainability Studies major educates students in a broad range of fundamental environmental studies subjects with concepts of sustainability integrated throughout the curriculum. Majors will combine the fundamental knowledge they obtain in three areas -- economics, environment, and society -- to develop an understanding of sustainability and how sustainable practices can be implemented. This is an ideal double major for other disciplinary degrees.
Available Areas of Expertise
Students must take five courses (15 credits) in one Area of Expertise, two in another Area (6 credits), and one in a third Area (3 credits). Students may choose from three areas of expertise: Economic, Environmental, and Society. For a complete list of approved courses please refer to the Undergraduate Catalog.
Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
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These events are designed to answer your questions and give you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of our program.
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Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
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