Chatham University

What you'll study

The Sustainability Studies degree at Chatham blends natural and social science perspectives to prepare students for practical solutions to environmental and social challenges. Core themes include ecological principles, sustainable systems thinking, environmental justice, and methods for community engagement.

• Foundations in environmental science: ecology, biodiversity, energy systems and climate science to give a robust understanding of environmental processes.
• Social and policy context: environmental policy and governance, sustainability ethics, economics, and community development.
• Applied skills: geographic information systems (GIS), quantitative and qualitative research methods, data analysis, and sustainable design principles.
• Food and land systems: courses and fieldwork in sustainable agriculture, food systems, land stewardship and regenerative practices, often taught at Chatham’s Eden Hall campus.
• Experiential learning: lab work, field courses, community-based projects, internships and a senior capstone or practicum that integrates coursework with a real-world sustainability challenge.
• Electives and concentrations: options to explore topics such as renewable energy, urban sustainability, conservation, environmental education, or business sustainability depending on student interests.

Entry requirements

Admission to the undergraduate Sustainability Studies programme is typically based on a completed secondary school qualification (or equivalent) with a record of academic achievement. Applicants should present a transcript from their high school or previous college study, and satisfy any institutional requirements for admission.

• Academic preparation: recommended study in mathematics and sciences (biology, chemistry or environmental science) plus humanities or social sciences to prepare for interdisciplinary coursework.
• Supporting materials: a personal statement outlining interest in sustainability and relevant experience; letters of recommendation from teachers or supervisors are commonly requested.
• Transfer applicants: transfer credit from accredited post-secondary institutions is considered; applicants should provide official college transcripts and a summary of completed coursework.
• International applicants: must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent credentials and provide certified academic records.
• Additional considerations: relevant volunteer, work or community experience, and a demonstrated commitment to sustainability can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Sustainability Studies programme go on to a broad range of careers across non-profit, public and private sectors, and many continue to postgraduate study. The interdisciplinary and applied nature of the degree equips students with analytical, communication and project-management skills valued by employers.

• Corporate sustainability coordinator or sustainability analyst
• Environmental consultant or compliance specialist
• Community development or environmental justice advocate
• Conservation or land stewardship technician
• Urban planner support roles and municipal sustainability positions
• Renewable energy project assistant or policy researcher
• Roles in sustainable food systems, such as farm-to-table programme coordinator or food policy advocate
• Further study in environmental science, public policy, environmental law or MBA programmes

Why study at Chatham University

Chatham offers a distinctive, place-based approach to sustainability education, with access to the Eden Hall Campus — a living laboratory for sustainable design, food systems and land stewardship. Small class sizes and interdisciplinary faculty allow for close mentorship and collaborative research opportunities.

• Experiential learning: hands-on courses, fieldwork and community partnerships that integrate theory with practice.
• Interdisciplinary faculty: instructors with expertise across science, policy, design and social justice who support applied research and capstone projects.
• Career support: internship programmes, career advising and alumni networks that connect students to placements in NGOs, government agencies and businesses.
• Community and campus sustainability: opportunities to participate in on-campus sustainability initiatives, student organisations and outreach projects that reinforce professional skills.