Dec 14, 2024  
2024-2025, 2nd ed. General Catalog 
    
2024-2025, 2nd ed. General Catalog

Environmental Studies, Geography, and Planning, BA



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The BA in Environmental Studies, Geography, and Planning focuses on bridging the natural and social sciences in order to produce more holistic and systemic analysis of environmental and societal issues. Students complete a common core of Foundational, Breadth, and Professional Preparation and Experience courses. Students further specialize their studies through GEP electives in one of five focal areas: Society, Environment and Development, Environmental Systems, Urban Studies and Planning, Energy Management & Design, or Geospatial Analysis. All students are required to take a minimum of one 400-level capstone course.  All courses in the curriculum strengthen students’ writing, critical thinking and presentation skills, which are critical for any successful career.

Program Learning Outcomes


PLO1 (Knowledge) Articulate and explain major social and environmental processes, and their interactions, in both the natural and built environment

PLO2 (Analysis) Analyze quantitative, qualitative and/or spatial evidence through at least one analytical framework to draw conclusions, solve problems, or optimize a plan

PLO3 (Communication)Demonstrate effective writing and presentation skills.

PLO4 (Professional Preparation) Apply academic knowledge and skills to a real-world experience and prepare for a professional career

Degree Requirements


See the “Degree Requirements ” in the University Catalog for complete details on general degree requirements.

General Education Requirements (48 units)

See the “General Education ” requirements in the University Catalog for information on General Education requirements. Some major requirements may double count for GE requirements.

Major Requirements (55 units)


This degree focuses on bridging the natural and social sciences in order to produce more holistic and systemic analysis of environmental and societal issues.

Note: Courses required for the major must be taken for a traditional letter grade, except for courses that are offered CR/NC only. Students must earn a C- or better in any course applied to the major. Breadth courses not double-counted in GEP electives. ​​​​​​​

Core Courses + Practical Experiences (31 units)


Foundation Courses (11 units)


Professional Preparation and Experiences (5 units)


GEP 310 and 311 are required. GEP 311 is repeatable, but only 1 unit may count in this category.

GEP Electives (21 units)


Take 3 courses in one focus area. Take additional electives within any focus area to reach 21 units. Must take at least one 400-level capstone course during junior/senior year (72+ units). Breadth courses do not double count as electives.

Total Units = 120 units


GE: 48 Units

Core: 31 units

Major Electives: 21 units (3 units GE overlap)

Supporting Courses: 3 units

University Electives: 20 units

Total units required for graduation: 120

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