B.A. in Sustainability Studies

This major focuses on the evolving “green economy.” Graduates will have exciting new career options as the country transitions from a fossil fuel based energy and economy infrastructure to one that integrates more sustainable and renewable energy sources. Students in the Sustainability Studies major will explore concepts such as benefits and limitations of various renewable/sustainable energies, changes in energy infrastructure related to new sources of energy, and societal issues related to these changes.

Bachelor of Arts in Sustainability Studies Program:

  • Humanities/Social Sciences track (Bachelor of Arts degree)
    The Humanities/Social Sciences track is designed for a student whose interests are related to the economic and social changes that are likely to occur as our fossil fuel based economy evolves to include more sustainable forms of energy and resources. Bachelor of Arts in Sustainability Studies (PDF)

Post-Otterbein opportunities for students include:

  • Graduate studies in technology fields (land use and planning, engineering technology, physical sciences, etc.) related to building, planning, energy conservation, new resource development, etc.
  • Careers in non-profit organizations, advocacy groups and government agencies that work with sustainability issues.
  • MBA programs that focus on resource economics and redevelopment strategies.
  • Careers in planning focused on resource utilization and distribution, infrastructure development and investment.
  • Career opportunities in technology fields related to development and distribution of renewable energy sources.
  • Careers related to land use management practices, from both conservation and redevelopment (Brownfield development) perspectives.
Student Learning Outcomes University Learning Goals (KMERI*)
1. Students gain an understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of contemporary relationships between environmental, economic and social issues, at a local, national or global level. Knowledgeable
2. Students will be able to work effectively with a wide array of constituencies, including educational, regulatory, scientific, and public relations professionals in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Engaged
3. Students prepare to live a sustainable life in their natural, their economic, and their social communities. Responsible
4. Students will develop analytical and communication skills that enable them to understand the complexity of sustainability issues. Multi-literate
5. Students gain an appreciation for sustainability issues by exploring and completing a capstone research project in an area of their interest. Inquisitive

*NOTE: KMERI refers to Otterbein's learning goals. It stands for KnowledgeableMulti-literateEngagedResponsible, and Inquisitive. To learn more about KMERI, visit our University Learning Goals page.