Sustainability

Major & Minor

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Why Study Sustainability Studies at Goshen College?

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As a sustainability studies major or minor at Goshen College, you’ll explore what it means to live responsibly—caring for the Earth and its people now and for generations to come. This interdisciplinary program weaves together environmental science, ethics, policy, and social systems to give you the tools to tackle today’s most urgent sustainability challenges.

You’ll dive into the connections between ecology, justice, economics, and culture through immersive coursework and real-world experiences. Whether you’re drawn to environmental advocacy, education, nonprofit leadership, conservation, or sustainable agriculture, this program empowers you to lead with purpose and create lasting, positive change.

  • 91%
    of classes have fewer than 30 students
  • 93%
    of graduates are employed, in graduate school, or in service within a year
  • #4
    Goshen College ranks #4 in the U.S. for best study abroad programs

    Career Paths

    Sustainability studies graduates go on to work in fields like:

    • Environmental Education
    • Ecological Restoration
    • Climate Policy
    • Conservation
    • Urban Planning
    • Nonprofit Advocacy
    • Sustainable Agriculture

    Others pursue graduate degrees in sustainability, environmental science, public policy, or education. Employers value GC grads for their hands-on experience, systems thinking, and commitment to ethical leadership.

    Curriculum and Requirements

    The major and minor in sustainability studies draw from biology, environmental science, peace studies, sociology and more. You can personalize your focus with electives and off-campus experiences.

    Sample courses include:

    • Introduction to Sustainability
    • Global Climate Change
    • Environmental Policy
    • Agroecology
    • Environmental Health
    • Ecological Economics

    Your academic advisor will help you tailor your courses toward careers in sustainability leadership, education, advocacy, or graduate school.

    See the full list of courses and requirements in the course catalog

    Course Catalog

    Hands-On Learning Opportunities

    At Goshen College, sustainability is more than a subject—it’s a way of life. Through hands-on learning experiences like the Sustainability Leadership Semester, you’ll have the opportunity to live and study at Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center, a 1,189-acre nature preserve just 30 miles from campus.

    During this immersive semester, you’ll engage in field-based research, ecological restoration, and community-focused projects, all while living in environmentally conscious student housing. This unique experience is designed to strengthen your leadership abilities and expand your understanding of environmental justice, sustainability policy, and the vital connections between people and place.

    Scholarships

    While there are no program-specific scholarships for sustainability studies, you may qualify for a range of Goshen College merit-based and need-based aid.

    Explore more of our scholarships

    Facilities & Resources

    Students in this program benefit from access to the Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center and its LEED Platinum-certified Rieth Village—an eco-friendly residential and classroom space built for immersive learning. You’ll also have access to GC’s environmental biology labs and campus sustainability initiatives.

    Faculty

    All Faculty

    • Jonathon Schramm

      Professor of Sustainability and Environmental Education
      Department Chair

    • John Mischler

      Associate Professor of Sustainability and Environmental Education

    • Luke Kreider

      Associate Professor of Religion and Sustainability

    • Jerrell Richer

      Professor of Economics
      Carl Kreider Chair and Co-Director of Global Engagement

    • Andy Ammons

      Professor of Biology

      All Faculty

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