Environment and Sustainability

Students who major in sustainability have a voice in shaping and changing the world for the better. Do you care about God’s creation, enjoy examining connections and relationships and want to be on the frontlines of policy change to help preserve the planet? Are you concerned about the impact of human activities on the environment? If you are interested in environmental issues like climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, and want to develop the skills and knowledge to address these issues, an environmental science and sustainability major at Gordon College is an excellent choice for you.

Why study environment and sustainability at Gordon?

At Gordon you will be taught and mentored by leaders in the fields of ecology and green chemistry whose commitments to creation care stem from their Christian faith. Our expansive 485-acre wooded campus, coupled with the proximity of the Atlantic Ocean, provides unique outdoor learning environments for conducting research. Gordon's partnership with the Au Sable Institute enables students to enroll in courses across various locations such as Michigan, India, and Costa Rica, leading to certification as a naturalist or specializing in land, water, or environmental resources analysis. Beyond traditional classroom settings, students can engage in extracurricular activities like the biology club or connect with similarly passionate individuals through groups like Restore Creation and Advocates for a Sustainable Future (ASF).

What careers can I pursue with an environmental science and sustainability major?

Now more than ever students who major in sustainability have a voice in shaping and changing the world for the better. You may consider a career in:

Sustainability coordination
Environmental science
Renewable energy
Environmental engineering
Conservation biology
Environmental policy
Sustainable agriculture

You can also pursue research professionally or educationally. Whether in a research lab or on the policy frontlines, tailor your studies within the environmental science concentration and related programs to achieve your goals.

Learn more about jobs and internships →

Experiential learning in environmental science and sustainability

Gordon’s emphasis on creation care is part of a longstanding commitment to sustainability, maintained by our campus-wide effort called Restore Creation. Our student-led green group, Advocates for a Sustainable Future, involves fellow students in environmental efforts—like an organic garden—and education. Biology Club hosts regular gatherings to maintain the close-knit community within one of Gordon’s largest majors.

Off-campus, students complete internships at a range of environmental institutions including: