Environmental science | Sustainability sciences option
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science
Overview
- In-state: $9,824
- Out-of-state: $29,300
- WUE/Invitation to Idaho: $13,538
Related Topics
Build a more sustainable future through science and innovation.
Communities across the West are facing complex challenges related to climate change, water resources, wildfire, working lands, population growth and sustainable development. Addressing these issues requires professionals who understand the connections among environmental systems, human communities and long-term sustainability.
University of Idaho's Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, Sustainability Sciences Option prepares you to examine environmental challenges through scientific, social and systems-based perspectives while developing practical solutions that support both people and the planet.
You'll build a strong foundation in environmental science while exploring how sustainability influences communities, industries, natural resources and environmental decision-making. Coursework combines environmental science, ecology, sustainability, policy and natural resource management to help you understand the complex relationships between environmental and human systems.
You'll learn from university faculty conducting research on real-world sustainability challenges across Idaho and the West while gaining hands-on experience through fieldwork, interdisciplinary projects and applied learning opportunities. Idaho's forests, agricultural landscapes, rivers and rangelands provide living laboratories for exploring sustainable resource management and environmental stewardship.
Whether you plan to pursue careers in sustainability, environmental consulting, conservation, resource management, environmental analysis or graduate study, you'll graduate prepared to help organizations and communities build a more sustainable future.
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Are interested in the science behind environmental issues
- Enjoy the outdoors
- Like science
- Want to address environmental challenges through innovative solutions
- Want to make a positive impact on communities and the environment
- Have strong interpersonal communication skills
Restoring our planet
Curriculum
The sustainability sciences option is a 120-credit bachelor's degree that combines environmental science, sustainability studies and applied learning experiences. Students examine environmental challenges through scientific, social and systems-based approaches while developing practical skills in sustainability, resource management and environmental problem-solving.
The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary thinking and prepares graduates to address environmental challenges affecting communities, organizations and ecosystems at local, regional and global scales.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
2,335 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Compliance Officers • Environmental Compliance Inspectors • Government Property Inspectors and Investigators • Regulatory Affairs Specialists
$84,215 - Environmental Scientists and Specialists • Climate Change Analysts • Environmental Restoration Planners • Industrial Ecologists
$92,711 - Environmental Science Technicians
$61,263 - Postsecondary Environmental Science Teachers
$87,431 - Forest and Conservation Technicians
$54,015
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
The environmental science curriculum includes field-based courses offered through other departments such as Fish and Wildlife, Geology and more.
Examples of field-based courses include:
Clubs
- Environmental Club
- Conservation Biology Club
Internships
Environmental science students find internships with public agencies, non-profit organizations, private industry and research institutions.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:
- Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
- Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
- Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.
If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
Recognized STEM Program
This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.
Overview
- In-state: $9,824
- Out-of-state: $29,300
- WUE/Invitation to Idaho: $13,538
Related Topics
Have questions?
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Connect with your admissions counselor or request more information to get personalized guidance on program details, requirements and next steps.
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Connect with program faculty
See where it can take you
Understanding Idaho’s changing population
University of Idaho research is helping communities and policymakers better understand how population shifts are reshaping Idaho’s future.
Why earn your environmental science degree focused on sustainability sciences?
Sustainability challenges require scientists who can connect environmental systems, human behavior and long-term resource management. University of Idaho’s Environmental Science degree with a sustainability sciences focus prepares you to study environmental issues through interdisciplinary scientific approaches while developing practical skills in sustainability, conservation and environmental problem-solving.
- Study environmental science through the interconnected lenses of sustainability, ecology, policy and natural resource management.
- Build a strong scientific foundation while exploring how environmental decisions affect communities, industries and ecosystems.
- Gain hands-on experience through fieldwork, interdisciplinary coursework and applied environmental science learning opportunities.
- Develop problem-solving and communication skills needed to address complex environmental and sustainability challenges.
- Prepare for careers in sustainability, environmental consulting, conservation, environmental analysis and natural resource management.