Bachelor’s in Environmental Science and Sustainability Degree
What Is an Environmental Science and Sustainability Degree?
A Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability is an interdisciplinary STEM degree that combines environmental science with the study of sustainability, policy, business and social responsibility. The program examines environmental challenges through the three pillars of sustainability: environmental integrity, social equity and economic viability.
In this environmental science and sustainability degree, you will examine how natural and human systems interact while developing competencies in scientific analysis, systems thinking and problem-solving. Coursework explores areas such as natural resource management, biodiversity, geographic information systems (GIS), renewable energy, environmental law, climate change and sustainable business practices. You will also examine how scientific evidence, economic considerations, public policy and ethical decision-making can inform approaches to complex environmental issues.
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)
- 16+ years old
- High School Graduate
- 2.8+ Unweighted GPA
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
- ACT: 19
- SAT: 1000*
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).
What To Expect in an Environmental Science and Sustainability Degree
In the bachelor’s degree in environmental science and sustainability, you can explore environmental challenges from scientific, social and economic perspectives. Your sustainability courses and environmental science coursework will encourage you to analyze interconnected systems, interpret scientific data and consider how policy, business practices and human activity can influence environmental outcomes.
Throughout the program, you will examine contemporary issues involving natural resources, biodiversity, energy, climate change, environmental health and sustainable development. You will also have opportunities to apply scientific methods, GIS, data analysis and ethical reasoning as you evaluate environmental challenges and potential solutions. A Christian worldview is integrated into the educational experience, encouraging you to consider ethical decision-making, responsible stewardship and the relationship between people, communities and the natural world.
The BS in Environmental Science and Sustainability Degree Experience
Study Sustainability Concepts in Online Classrooms
As an online student, you can engage with environmental science and sustainability coursework through a convenient online learning environment. Explore topics in sustainability, environmental systems and resource management flexibly while connecting with instructors and classmates throughout your studies.
Pursue Your Degree at an Accredited University
GCU has been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. The College of Natural Sciences shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.
Connect With the GCU Campus Community
As a campus student, you can engage with your studies while becoming part of our active campus community. Connect with fellow students, participate in clubs and activities and explore opportunities to get involved outside the classroom throughout your college experience.
Access Resources Throughout Your Studies
As an environmental science and sustainability major, you have access to a number of student resources offered by the College of Natural Sciences, our Career Services team and the guidance of knowledgeable faculty. If you pursue your degree on campus, you can also participate in hands-on experiences in our on-campus lab facilities to complement your studies.
What Will I Study in the Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science and Sustainability?
In the bachelor’s degree in environmental science and sustainability, you will study a combination of coursework based on sustainability, resource management, policy, business and ethics. You will examine environmental systems and human impacts while developing competencies in scientific research, data analysis, GIS and sustainability-focused problem-solving.
Core Course Topics in an Environmental Science and Sustainability Degree
Your coursework explores topics ranging from biodiversity and environmental health to renewable energy, sustainable business, environmental law and climate change. You will also examine environmental challenges from ecological, economic and social perspectives while considering how science-based approaches can inform sustainability decisions.
The interdisciplinary curriculum allows you to study environmental science alongside the social, economic and policy dimensions of sustainability.
Explore core course topics such as:
Environmental systems and biodiversity
Examine ecosystems, biodiversity, natural resources and the relationships between ecological health, human activity and environmental sustainability
Sustainable resources and energy
Explore natural resource management, renewable and nonrenewable energy sources, energy efficiency and approaches to meeting societal needs while considering environmental impacts
Sustainability, business and policy
Analyze sustainable business models, circular economy principles, environmental law and the policy frameworks that influence environmental and sustainability decisions
Climate change and sustainable communities
Study climate change, sustainable cities and the environmental, social and economic factors that shape responses to sustainability challenges
How Does an Environmental Science and Sustainability Degree Compare to Other Environmental Science Degrees?
GCU offers three environmental science bachelor’s degree programs, each with a different area of focus. Compare the programs below to explore their key focus areas and determine which path may fit your interests and goals.
What Can You Do With an Environmental Science and Sustainability Degree?
A bachelor’s degree in environmental science and sustainability can provide a foundation for pursuing careers as a sustainability agent in a wide variety of industries. The program’s interdisciplinary focus can help you develop scientific and analytical competencies that may be applicable to roles in government agencies, private organizations, nonprofits and scientific settings. Your career options may vary based on your experience, interests and additional education.
Some specific career paths related to environmental science and sustainability include:
Natural sciences managers
Direct research, testing and other scientific activities while overseeing scientists and coordinating projects, staffing and resources
Conservation scientists
Manage and protect natural resources by assessing land conditions, developing conservation plans and helping ensure that conservation activities comply with regulations
Environmental scientists and specialists
Investigate environmental conditions and problems, analyze environmental data and develop approaches intended to protect the environment and human health
Social scientists and related workers
Apply research and analytical methods to examine social issues, human behavior and the relationships between people, communities and broader social systems
Median annual wage for natural sciences managers as of May 2025¹
Projected job growth for natural sciences managers from 2025 to 2035(See disclaimer 2)
What Are the Financial Options for an Environmental Science and Sustainability Degree?
As you consider earning your bachelor’s degree in environmental science and sustainability, explore information about tuition, scholarships and other financial options that may help you plan for your education. We offer resources to help you understand your potential educational expenses and the financial options available to qualifying students.
GCU has not increased campus tuition rates since 2009
Ways To Save
Your education is an important financial investment, and there are several ways to help manage costs while earning your degree. GCU’s university counselors are available to help you explore available options and provide personalized guidance on your estimated cost of attendance.
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually to determine eligibility for federal grants and student loans. Since some aid is awarded on a first‑come, first‑served basis, GCU recommends submitting the FAFSA as early as possible after Oct. 1 to maximize funding opportunities.
If you’ve earned college credits from another institution, you may be able to complete your degree sooner at GCU by transferring those credits. Submit the Lopes Unofficial Credit Evaluation form, then connect with a university counselor who can provide you with personalized guidance.
You may be able to reduce your college costs by applying for GCU’s on-campus or online student scholarships. We invite you to explore available institutional scholarships and determine which opportunities you may be eligible for. GCU also encourages students to seek out third‑party scholarships and grants.
Explore Your Financial Options
Connect with a university counselor to learn more about tuition, cost-planning resources and available options.
Environmental Science and Sustainability Degree FAQs
Browse through answers to frequently asked questions about the BS in Environmental Science and Sustainability, including coursework, skills, conservation, environmental policy and learning formats.
Is a sustainability degree worth it?
Can an environmental science and sustainability degree prepare me for graduate studies?
What skills can students develop in an environmental science and sustainability degree?
What is the difference between an online sustainability degree and an on-campus program?
How does an environmental science and sustainability degree address conservation?
How does environmental policy fit into a sustainability degree?
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Environmental Science and Sustainability Degree?
GCU offers a streamlined admission process with no application fee, personal statement or essay required. High school students may qualify for admission by meeting either the minimum GPA requirement or minimum SAT or ACT test score requirements. Admission criteria may vary by degree or program, so please review the requirements for your chosen program.
You can apply to a degree program at GCU in just three simple steps. Your university counselor is standing by to assist you with any questions about the application process.
It starts with selecting the program that aligns with your goals from one of GCU's 380+ academic programs — from undergraduate degrees to post-master’s certificate programs to doctoral degrees.
Pick your program
Explore our on-campus, online or evening cohort options under the Degree Programs page to find the right program for you.
Complete our online application
Your university counselor will direct you to the online application. Fill in all required information and submit the form.
Submit supporting documents
Submit your official transcripts and any relevant test scores, and confirm with your university counselor that all forms for your desired program are submitted.
Program Curriculum
General Education Requirements
Core Courses
Explore Related Environmental Science Topics
Continue exploring environmental science and sustainability through articles covering environmental issues, scientific concepts and related areas of study.
Develop interdisciplinary knowledge in environmental science, sustainability, policy and resource management while building scientific and analytical skills for your future.
- The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Natural Sciences Managers, as of May 2025, retrieved September 2026. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as natural sciences managers, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It is very unlikely that a median salary will reflect an entry-level salary. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
- Data shown is effective August 2026, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Natural Sciences Managers, retrieved September 2026.
Approved and verified accurate by the Dean of the College of Natural Sciences on Oct. 2, 2026.