Sustainability Science and Society—BS

Get Ready to Make an Impact

Do you want to explore the interactions between global, social, and natural systems to understand how sustainable those systems are? Then a BS in sustainability science and society just might be the degree for you.

The Bachelor of Science in Sustainability Science and Society at Michigan Tech develops confident, skilled sustainability professionals adept at understanding how to meet present needs (such as health, energy, food, shelter, and transportation), without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Make The Difference

Considering unprecedented environmental degradation, social instability, and economic uncertainties in today’s world, a degree in sustainability cultivates the complex knowledge and skills needed for graduates to foster a secure and healthy future for all. Global climate change and environmental degradation offer new challenges and new opportunities as governments, non-profits, businesses, and the public look for solutions.
With a degree in sustainable science and society, you will gain the tools needed to study the causes of environmental degradation and help solve pressing environmental problems. You’ll better understand and be equipped to respond to complicated issues and lead the creation of a sustainable future while preparing for new jobs in the emerging green economy.
You can expand your knowledge and focus on where you want to make your impact by adding a minor, certificate, or even a second major, from any department on campus to complement your degree.

Degree Courses

A Master’s Degree in Your Plans?

Earn an Accelerated MS degree in Sustainable Communities, Environmental and Energy Policy or Industrial Heritage and Archaeology. You can do it in just one additional year at Michigan Tech with your BS in Sustainability Science and Society.

Top 20
Best Public College in the US (Wall Street Journal, 2024)
90%

of undergraduates involved in research
7
minors to pair with your degree
4+
faculty-led study away programs

Tomorrow Needs Sustainability Experts

The global challenges posed by climate change, resource depletion, and ecological degradation require a workforce that comprehends sustainability. Graduates who understand sustainability and sustainable practices are equipped to implement green initiatives that benefit both the environment and businesses. Such graduates can drive cost-effective measures that reduce energy consumption, waste, and emissions across industries and public sectors. Moreover, they contribute to building a more ethical and responsible business culture, attracting environmentally conscious consumers and investors. Embracing sustainable practices is not just a moral imperative; it also represents a strategic advantage in a world where sustainability is increasingly becoming a key driver of success.

Career Opportunities for Sustainability Science and Society Majors

The US Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects 6% increase in job demand for sustainability specialists and other environmental professionals. Your future career options are unlimited with a degree in sustainability science and society. Career opportunities include:

Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Climate Change Analyst
Energy Auditor
Energy and LEED Analyst
Energy Manager
Environmental Analyst/Consultant
GIS Analyst
Graduate Research Assistant
Healthcare Sustainability Analyst
Public Affairs Specialist
Renewable Energy Analyst/Specialist
Solar Operations Surveyor
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Coordinator/Specialist
Sustainability Design Coordinator
Sustainability Grant Writer
Sustainability Planner
Sustainability Program Specialist
Water Resources Specialist
Zero Waste Program Manager

Companies Hiring Sustainability Science and Society Majors

The growing list of companies hiring sustainability science and society majors:

3M
Allstate
Aramco
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Boston Consulting Group
Caterpillar
DataStory
Deloitte
Department of Natural Resources
Environmental Protection Agency
Kimberly Clark
Rockwell Automation
Mercury Marine
Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency
University of Wisconsin
US Forest Service
Wayne State University
Western Upper Peninsula Planning and Development Region

Ready to take the next step?

Learn more about studying sustainability science and society at Michigan's flagship technological university.

Preview image for Michigan Tech Sustainability Science and Society Major video

"With sustainability science and society I wanted to have something I knew I could make a difference with. I think that making the world a better place for future generations is something that is really important to me"
Maya Klanderman '24, BS Sustainability Science and Society

Study Sustainable Solutions and Practices at a Technological University

Learn how to apply technology to solve social problems and issues in sustainability, human health, environment, and social justice. Gain skills to work successfully in diverse teams through cultural anthropology and sociology; document and analyze the past in history and archaeology; or present arguments on pressing legal issues as you prepare for law school. Build knowledge and research foundations required to succeed in graduate school, research, or the job market. With faculty that also serve as your research advisors and mentors, you’ll conduct research that makes a real difference in communities.

Get personalized attention: With a student:faculty ratio of 4:1, our smaller department ensures your academic advisors and professors know you and understand your interests and needs. You can receive the guidance you need in a timely fashion. They can better help pair you with research, internship, and job opportunities that meet your needs and provide valuable experience.
Customize your sustainability education: Tailor your degree to fit your pathway. At Michigan Tech, our programs span anthropology, history, policy and community development, social science, and sustainability science and society. That interdisciplinary approach gives you exposure to different areas of the social sciences. Choose from 7 different minors in the department (American Studies, Global Community Development Partnerships, Global Studies, Historical Studies, Law and Society, Social and Behavioral Studies, and Sustainable Science and Society), or add any one of 80+ minors across the university.
Study Abroad: Take part in one of our faculty-led study away/abroad programs Study sustainability in Costa Rica or the Western USA via Amtrak.
Jumpstart Your Career: You'll complete at least one capstone co-op, internship, or research project to deepen your learning and build your resume. Position yourself for many impactful jobs with a certificate in public policy. Get a master's in just one additional year in environmental and energy policy and boost your earnings potential and employment options.

Undergraduate Majors in Social Sciences

Not sure which major is the right fit? No problem.
Just declare the General Sciences and Arts major, give yourself time, and decide when you arrive on campus.
To learn more speak to an academic advisor.

Undergraduate Minors

Enhance your knowledge beyond your field of study. Explore a passion outside your major. Students from all majors can add a minor in the Social Sciences. To learn more, speak to an academic advisor.

American Studies
Global Community Development Partnerships
Global Studies
Historical Studies
Law and Society
Social and Behavioral Studies
Sustainability Science and Society

Tomorrow Needs You

Supercharge your sustainability skills at a flagship public research university powered by science, technology, engineering, and math. Graduate with the theoretical knowledge and practical experience needed to solve social problems and issues in sustainability, human health, environment, and social justice.

"I decided to study abroad in Costa Rica to experience a culture different from the one I grew up in and also largely due to Costa Rica being one of the leading countries in sustainability. Personally, I cannot wait to find ways to apply the knowledge we have gained here to whatever I do in the future."Isadora Mitchell ‘22, BS Sustainability Sciences and Society