Department ofEnvironmental Studies

flowers and the Bellarmine Arch

Transforming ourselves, our communities, and our world...mind, body, spirit, Earth

We empower and train environmental professionals and community change-makers to lead ethical and meaningful lives and improve the human condition and the natural world

The Environmental Studies Department values authenticity, connection & community, integrity & justice, and making a difference. We find purpose in transforming ourselves, our communities, and our world by providing a life-changing student experience in environmental problem-solving and capacity-building through intensive coursework involving field trips, technical skill development, and community engagement toward a fulfilling, ethical, and meaningful career improving the human condition and the natural world.

Recent growth in green business ventures, environmentally sustainable practices, and conservation of natural resources suggests that future economic and social opportunities will be most successful when environmental concerns are adequately addressed. The department exemplifies Bellarmine’s commitment to educate students—mind, body, and spirit—to lead lives of purpose amidst changing times through development of strategic pathways to rewarding careers in the environment.

Our vision is to be the region's premier, student-centered destination for educating transformative environmental professionals leading lives of meaning and purpose  

Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible. —Saint Francis of Assisi

Our Degrees and Minor

We offer a B.S. degree in Environmental Science, a B.A. degree in Environmental Justice and Sustainability, and a minor in Environmental Studies.

The B.S. degree in Environmental Science prepares students for careers in environmental technology, environmental monitoring, conservation biology, and environmental science research through examination of ecological processes, the causes and consequences of human impacts on the natural world, and technologies needed to minimize or mitigate environmental problems.

B.A. degree in Environmental Justice and Sustainability prepares students for careers in environmental policy and sustainability, environmental planning, environmental communication, and environmental education through emphasis on the political, economic, and sociological aspects of environmental issues.

The minor in Environmental Studies pairs well with many majors, including but not limited to Anthropology, Business, Biology, Chemistry, Communication, Criminal Justice Studies, Economics, History, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology

Recognition

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Certified as a Tree Campus USA campus
by the Arbor Foundation since 2014

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Certified as a Bee Campus USA campus
by the Xerxes Society since 2023

Contact

Dr. Joy Jacobs-Lawson
Division Chair for Environmental Studies
jjacobs-lawson@bellarmine.edu

Dr. Kate Bulinski
Associate Professor, Environmental Studies Department
kbulinski@bellarmine.edu

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