On Campus Experiences

Because of the international context of many environmental issues, study abroad is encouraged for Environmental Justice and Sustainability students. Bellarmine has partnered with over 150 universities in 50 different countries, offering students a wide variety of options for study abroad. Students unable to study abroad can still enrich their education by participating in a variety of clubs and organizations on campus. The department works closely with the Environmental Committee of Student Government, the Outdoors Club, and with a number of service organizations at Bellarmine.

The BA in Environmental Justice and Sustainability requires a capstone course as part of the major requirements. Students in the capstone course will be involved in finding environmental solutions to local problems. The program also organizes co-curricular events and service projects focused on environmental protection and improvement.

Career Prospects

Because it draws more extensively from economics, sociology, political science, and international studies, the B.A. in Environmental Justice and Sustainability degree is more appropriate for students intending to pursue graduate study and careers in environmental planning, environmental law, environmental justice and advocacy, sustainability consulting, sustainable development, international development, environmental communications, and environmental education.

Internships

Internships are an integral part of our curriculum. We have secured agreements for a variety of local internship opportunities with non-profit environmental organizations, government agencies, and environmental businesses. Internships typically take place over a single semester in the junior or senior year.

Study Abroad

Bellarmine offers a wide variety of study abroad options around the globe. Learn what opportunities are available to you on our Study Abroad and International Programs site.

Terra Learning Community

The Terra Learning Community (TLC), formerly the Rachel Carson Learning Community, at Bellarmine University is a program for 20 first-year residents and commuters majoring in environmental disciplines or demonstrating exceptional interest in sustainability. These students will support each other in the courses they take together, in environmentally conscious living, in service projects benefitting the greater community, and in co-curricular experiences such as hiking and canoeing. TLC students will also take care of the Bellarmine fruit and vegetable garden, and will get a chance to to prepare some of the harvest for their own meals.

Learn more about the Terra Learning Community.

Facilities

Our program recently received a grant from Louisville Gas and Electric to build and equip a new environmental research laboratory in Newman Hall. Students in our program will have access to this facility to learn technical skills needed for environmental monitoring, and to gain experience in environmental research.

Opportunities for outdoor education at Bellarmine are enhanced by a wildlife refuge within walking distance of the campus. An outstanding system of city parks, the Louisville Zoo, a regional aquarium, botanical gardens, state and national parks, the Hoosier National Forest, and Ohio River access points are all within convenient distance for field trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the job opportunities for someone with a degree in Environmental Justice and Sustainability?
The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs in the environmental sector will continue to grow faster than average in the next ten years. A Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Justice and Sustainability from Bellarmine provides students with multiple avenues for employment including, but not limited to: environmental law, environmental justice, environmental policy, climate change policy, food systems, renewable energy, sustainability consulting and sustainable development, corporate social responsibility, environmental and urban planning, international development, environmental communications, environmental education and interpretation.

What are the requirements to complete a degree in Environmental Justice and Sustainability? What kind of courses would I take?
The Environmental Justice and Sustainability degree prepares students for a vibrant career that involves environmental problem-solving through integrated coursework and skill-building. Students electing the Environmental Justice and Sustainability major take a set of general education courses that prepare them for courses in the environmental discipline, such as Planet Earth, Principles of Biology, American Government, and Introduction to Academic Writing. The courses in the discipline include our introductory course for majors; a life-science, physical-science, and social-science core, and a set of upper-level requirements that serve to advance and integrate understanding while further developing technical skills. Career preparation is further strengthened with an internship experience.

Can I earn a minor in Environmental Justice and Sustainability?
Yes, we offer a minor that pairs well with many majors. The six courses for the minor include two introductory courses, a field course, and three upper-level courses. See the course catalog for more detail.

Can I do a double-major or a different minor with a major in Environmental Justice and Sustainability?
Yes, the Environmental Justice and Sustainability degree has sufficient electives for students to take a double-major or a minor. Common double majors with Environmental Justice and Sustainability include Economics, Sociology, and Political Science. Minors or tracks that pair well with Environmental Justice and Sustainability include pre-law, anthropology, peace studies, communications, international relations, and criminal justice studies.

What types of extra-curricular activities are available for a student with an interest in the environment?
Students interested in the environment will want to consider being part of the Terra Learning Community in their first year at Bellarmine. Related student organizations include the Sustainability and Environmental Club, Food Recovery Network, Vegan and Vegetarian Outreach, Biology Club, Chemistry Club, Bass Fishing Team, and the Student Government Association’s Environmental Committee.

Accreditation

Bellarmine University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, master’s and doctorate degrees.

Faculty

Here is a quick snapshot of a few of our faculty members. View our full faculty listing page.

Michele Abee, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
mabee@bellarmine.edu

Kate Bulinski, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
kbulinski@bellarmine.edu, 502.272.7972

Martha Carlson Mazur, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
mmazur@bellarmine.edu, 502.272.8998