Why Study Sustainability and Adaptation?
Immerse yourself in an interdisciplinary program designed to find solutions to environmental problems.
Students in the sustainability and adaptation major and minor programs at 51³Ô¹Ï learn the fundamentals of ecology and permaculture, along with social sciences and humanities, as they seek solutions to complex global environmental challenges.
Students in the sustainability and adaptation major apply a scientific understanding of ecosystems to contemporary sustainability issues, using quantitative and qualitative research skills, principles of community engagement, and opportunities for service and leadership. For example, students literally get their hands dirty to study and practice ecological design at Pacific’s own Boxer Gardens, an on-campus learning lab for food production and permaculture.
What Can You Do with an Sustainability and Adaptation Major?
Our students gain skills that many employers value, including leadership, creativity, collaboration, communication, problem solving. Sustainability and adaptation majors are well-prepared for graduate study or careers in permaculture design, sustainable food systems, environmental education, urban planning, product design and landscape architecture.
Hands-On Learning in the Boxer Gardens
Boxer Gardens serves as an outdoor laboratory for students, as well as a venue for outdoor gathering. Boxer Gardens provides students with opportunities to learn about organic gardening practices, educational outreach, policy development, sustainable community, and housing design. The garden features a polyculture garden, woodland garden, pollinator garden and vibrant patio area.
Partnering for Sustainability
51³Ô¹Ï's Center for a Sustainable Society provides students an opportunity to experience the university's commitment to sustainability and work within a collaborative framework to cultivate an engaged community dedicated to increasing the wellbeing of people and places. The center promotes opportunities for research, education, and practical experiences for students to work on projects related to environmental stewardship, sustainable business practices, food insecurity, environmental justice, challenging consumption trends, energy efficiency, and more.
