There are multiple pathways to appreciating the ecological complexity and wonder of the earth we inhabit. Whether discussing aspects of sustainability or its philosophical tilt, environmental studies will prepare you to address complex issues.
The expansive curriculum of the environmental studies program—including natural and social sciences as well as the humanities and fine arts—offers so many avenues for you to explore. The program’s spread of curricular options will enable you to develop not only depth of exposure to certain fields and methodologies of study, but also cross-disciplinary breadth of understanding.
A major asset of the environmental studies program at Sewanee is the unparalleled opportunity for field study available throughout the University’s 13,000-acre campus, commonly known as “the Domain,” and its living laboratory for inquiry. This extensive tract includes extensive woodlands, lakes, trails, caves, and bluffs that surround the central campus and encompass the residential village of Sewanee.
A field-oriented geology and writing course, conducted on the Cumberland Plateau and surrounding areas. The emphasis is on observation of geological features, particularly geomorphology, and how these relate to other natural parts of the landscape. Historical aspects of human use of the land are also emphasized. Extensive walking and hiking.
Integrating local, regional, and global perspectives, this course outlines the history of agriculture, introduces the development of food systems and policy, and reviews the environmental impact of food production. Topics include the history of agricultural expansion in the United States, the development of agriculture and food policies, interaction among agricultural markets at home and abroad, and sustainable agriculture. Field opportunities include garden activities and local trips that relate broader issues to the way livelihoods are pursued on the Cumberland Plateau.
Examines a wide range of controversial issues concerning the moral responsibilities of human beings toward the natural environment with special attention to competing philosophical theories on the moral status of non-human species and natural ecosystems.
Requirements for the Minor in Environmental Studies
Requirements for the Major in Environment & Sustainability | Website
Requirements for the Major in Environmental Arts & Humanities | Website
Requirements for the Major & Minor in Forestry | Website
Requirements for the Major & Minor in Geology | Website
Requirements for the Major in Natural Resources & the Environment | Website
Requirements for the Minor in Religion & Environment | Website
Daniel Carter is currently teaching Environmental Policy, Introduction to Environmental Studies, Environmental Education, and Land-use Policy. Dr. Carter was born, raised, and currently lives on a cattle and sheep farm in the Sewanee region and has a passion for land conservation. His research involves analyzing the cultural, financial, and environmental impacts of land-use change in the south Cumberland Plateau as timber companies have divested thousands of acres for development purposes in recent years.
Keri Watson is a Sewanee graduate with a Ph.D. in natural resources from the University of Vermont. She specializes in environment and sustainability.
Snowden Hall 220, Ext. 3396
Cleveland Annex 101A, Snowden Hall 209, Ext. 3219
Two Sewanee students, both Natural Resources majors, have been spending the fall semester at sea, both aboard the same tall ship ocean research vessel—but during different parts of the semester and in different parts of the Pacific.
Sewanee's Integrated Program in the Environment is one of the premier collections of environmental offerings in the country. A working farm, a 13,000-acre forest, and well-funded internships offer opportunities to apply your classroom learning. An expansive curriculum—including natural and social sciences as well as the humanities and fine arts—offers students multiple pathways for gaining an understanding of the ecological complexity and wonder of the earth we inhabit.
The Office of Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability offers students myriad opportunities to engage with the outdoors. Whether your passions are natural resources management, food production, animal care, field research, or sustainability, there's a place for you to get your hands dirty on the Domain!
The University Farm offers students a transformative experience through the immersive and intimate practice of restorative agriculture. At the farm you'll find many opportunities to enhance your education and connect with the history of agriculture. And if you’re lucky, there will be some baby goats around during finals.
