Program at a glance
How much does it cost?
Learn more about how to afford a degree from the University of Nevada, Reno.
How long does it take?
This minor is designed to be completed with any major in four years.
What will I learn in an environmental studies minor?
In the environmental studies minor, you'll take classes from a variety of academic disciplines to explore natural resource and energy use and its impact on the environment. All students in the minor take an introduction to environmental science course, which covers basic ecological principles and covers key concepts of energy and ecosystems as well as environmental issues specific to the Truckee River and Great Basin.
After that, you can chose from coursework in disciplines ranging from anthropology and economics to biology, geography, and natural resources and environmental sciences. The minor requires courses in both the science of environmental studies as well as the economics and social aspects of the environment, giving graduates a well-rounded view on the environment and issues related to energy and natural resources.
The minor in environmental studies is offered by the Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Science in the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources.
Faculty and students in the NRES department are dedicated to solving critical environmental challenges with cutting-edge research in all aspects of the environment, including air, water, plants, soil and wildlife.
Take the next step
Careers with a minor in environmental studies
You can take a minor in environmental studies into a wide range of career paths. Students who are focused on the scientific aspects of environmental studies may find jobs in a wide range of career paths in conservation, forestry and rangeland management, and more.
If you are more interested in the social and policy impacts of environmental studies, you might consider a career in urban or regional planning, environmental lobbying or law, or environmental consulting.
Many jobs in environmental studies may involve working for some level of government. The federal government offers jobs for conservation scientists in fields from hydrology to soil science to wildlife biology. Additionally, state and local governments employ individuals on both the policy and the scientific side of environmental studies. A degree in environmental studies can also prepare you for work in the non-profit sector or in industry.
Some jobs in environmental studies may require a graduate degree, and a minor in environmental studies can also help prepare you for advanced coursework in graduate school.
You can afford the University of Nevada, Reno
76% of students receive financial aid
Almost everyone is eligible to receive some kind of aid. We offer need-based and merit-based forms of financial aid to help you afford college.
54% of all students graduate with no debt
That's right. More than half of our students leave the University of Nevada, Reno with no student debt.
Related programs
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