International Development, Environment and Sustainability

CO-DIRECTORS: L. ELGERT and L. STODDARD

ASSOCIATED FACULTY: M. Bakermans (BB), C. Brown (SSPS), C. Clark (HUA), J. Doyle (SSPS), K. Foo (IGSD), R. Gottlieb (HUA), R. Krueger (SSPS), C. Kurlanska (IGSD), S. LePage (CEE), J. MacDonald (CBC), P. Mathiesen (CEE), G. Pfeifer (UGS), R. Rao (BB), D. Rosbach (CEE), I. Shockey (IGSD), S. Tuler (IGSD)

Mission Statement

Our planet faces urgent environmental, social, and techno- logical crises. Because these problems involve peoples, natures, planetary systems, and technologies, we need new scientific and engineering approaches that are informed by the social sciences, humanities, the arts, and people’s real lives. We must therefore challenge convention. IDEaS therefore offers a major and minor in Environmental Sustainability Studies. The major can be chosen as a stand- alone course of study or be connected with other degree programs, which could range from chemical engineering, to biology and chemistry, or civil engineering. IDEaS also offers a minor in Science and Engineering for International Development. Either degree option invites students to explore the technical area of their choice: to become competent engineers and scientists. These programs also teach those skills for the future workplace: interdisciplinary collaboration; complex problem solving of socio-technical issues; written and oral communication; and the dexterity and creativity to excel in changing contexts . 

Educational Outcomes

Graduating Students will: 

  1. Be able to identify, analyze, and development solutions to environmental and socio-economic problems creatively.
  2. Have mastered fundamental concepts and methods of inquiry in their areas of specialization, whether environmental or developmental thought, policy, or methodology.
  3. Be able to make connections between disciplines and integrate information from multiple sources.
  4. Be aware of how their decision-making processes affect and are affected by other individuals separated across time and space.
  5. Be aware of personal, societal, and professional ethical standards.
  6. Have interpersonal and communication skills and a professional attitude necessary for a successful career. 
  7. Understand and employ current technological tools.
  8. Have the ability to engage in life-long learning.