The Program provides an early grounding in the natural and physical sciences so that students have a clear understanding of environmental systems and both short and long-term consequences of human-environment interactions. The social sciences provide information about environmental decision making and public policies. The humanities provide aesthetic, ethical, and historical approaches to human-environment relations.

The Environmental Studies Program differs from other environment-centered programs on campus in its focus on policy issues. In contrast, programs such as Civil and Environmental Engineering and Environmental Earth Sciences are oriented toward the technical aspects of human-environment relationships. These degrees prepare students for hands-on design and analysis in technical and professional settings.

Admission Requirements to the Environmental Studies Program
1. New freshmen admitted to the University of Utah in good standing qualify for admission to this major.

2. Transfer students from other institutions or from other University of Utah majors need a 2.25 total GPA to be admitted to the Environmental Studies major in good standing.

Coursework
Classes in the Environmental Studies are drawn from a cross-section of University departments. This makes it possible for students in the program to tailor their class schedules in order to reflect their personal interests. It is recommended that students work with an advisor to devise a program focusing on a topic not covered by traditional majors, such as environmental policy or history. Others may decide to combine Environmental Studies with another University minor or major (biology, communication, political science, business, etc.) in order to meet their educational objectives.