The Environmental Studies major combines a strong interdisciplinary foundation with the flexibility to pursue your individual interests. Whether you choose the Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS), you’ll develop a broad understanding of environmental challenges while tailoring your coursework through one of nine concentrations.
The curriculum is designed to help you explore environmental issues from scientific, social, historical, and humanistic perspectives. Along the way, you’ll work closely with faculty advisors, conduct original research, and complete a senior essay on a topic that reflects your interests.
Planning Your Major
Every EVST student begins with core courses that provide a common interdisciplinary foundation before selecting a concentration and completing advanced coursework. The requirements below will help you plan your path through the major.
Your Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS) will work with you to develop an academic plan that supports your interests, whether you are preparing for graduate school, professional school, research, public service, business, or another career.
Degree Pathways
The Environmental Studies major offers two degree options:
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Ideal for students interested in policy, economics, history, environmental justice, law, the humanities, and interdisciplinary approaches to environmental challenges.
Bachelor of Science (BS)
Ideal for students seeking a stronger foundation in the natural sciences while exploring topics such as ecology, biodiversity, climate science, environmental chemistry, and public health.
Both degree programs emphasize interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, research, and effective communication.
Concentrations
Sudents choose one of nine concentrations that reflect their academic interests and career goals. Concentrations allow students to develop deeper expertise while maintaining the interdisciplinary perspective that defines the EVST major.
Students whose interests span multiple disciplines may also design a custom concentration in consultation with their Director of Undergraduate Studies. This option allows students to create an individualized course of study that brings together subjects from across Yale to explore emerging environmental topics or unique combinations of interests.
Whether you follow one of the established concentrations or develop your own, the EVST curriculum provides the flexibility to tailor your education to your academic passions and future goals.
- Biodiversity & Conservation
- Energy & Climate
- Environmental Humanitites
- Environmental Justice
- Environmental Policy
- Food & Agriculture
- Human Health & Environment
- Sustainability & Natural Resources
- Urban Environments
- Custom Concentration
Senior Essay
The senior essay is the capstone experience of the Environmental Studies major. Working closely with a faculty advisor, students conduct original research and produce an independent scholarly project that reflects their interests and academic growth.
Plan Ahead
Because many EVST students also pursue a second major, study abroad, undergraduate certificates, or other interdisciplinary opportunities, we encourage students to begin planning early and meet regularly with a Director of Undergraduate Studies.
The requirements below provide the detailed curriculum for both the BA and BS degrees, including core courses, concentration requirements, and senior essay expectations.
The Concentration
a focused study of one environmental field, required for completion of the major
The Senior Essay
the culmination of the Environmental Studies Major for both BA and BS degree programs