Environmental Studies

BSc (Hons) in Environmental Studies
Validated by The Open University, UK

Introduction to the Major in Environmental Studies

Deree– The American College of Greece is the first independent educational institution in Greece to introduce an Environmental Studies program. Launched in fall 2010, the program aims to develop students’ understanding of the root causes and multiple dimensions of environmental problems (ecological, social, economic and political) as well as options for effectively addressing these problems in an increasingly complex world.

The program provides students with the theoretical knowledge and skills to:

  • enter the professional world and pursue careers related to environmental issues
  • become environmentally informed and socially responsible citizens, and
  • undertake graduate studies in environmental fields.

What You Will Study: An Interdisciplinary Program

The program combines knowledge from different disciplines to provide students with a better understanding of the complex nature of environmental problems, examining not only their ecological, but also their social, economic and political dimensions. Courses in environmental science, general biology, ecology, chemistry and geology provide students with an understanding of the structure and functioning of natural systems and of their role in supporting life and human activities. Students also examine the relationship between the environment, society, human health, the economy and use of energy, and acquire knowledge of environmental policy issues and principles of environmental management that are essential components of problem solving. Students develop the cognitive and practical skills needed to perform research in different environmental studies fields and to provide solutions to specific environmental problems. In their senior year, they have the opportunity to select five optional courses on more specialized topics in the areas of water resource management, atmospheric science and pollution, biodiversity and conservation, sustainable food production, waste management, E.U. policy and legislation, environmental management systems, sustainable cities, and sustainable tourism management.


Career/Graduate Study Opportunities

Environmental Studies graduates may embark on careers as environmental consultants, scientists, educators, and management specialists.  More specifically, they may work in: private consulting firms and companies performing environmental studies; private companies such as corporations, banks, market research companies, colleges and universities in the areas of environmental planning (e.g. on air quality, land-use, recreation, transportation, water resources), internal audits, policy and quality assessments; media; nongovernmental organizations in the areas of environmental education and communication (journalism, advertising), and environmental management (water quality management, air quality management, solid and hazardous waste management, land and water conservation, ecosystem and wildlife management); protected areas as environmental experts, environmental educators or eco-tour guides; and in international posts (e.g. in EU environmental programs) in all of the above areas.


Sustainability at ACG

Environmental Studies students have the opportunity to engage in sustainability-related projects aiming at establishing and enhancing a sustainability culture on campus and creating future sustainability leaders. As a leading educational institution, the American College of Greece recognizes the environmental, economic, and social benefits of resource efficiency and commits to educate, inspire and empower its students, as well as faculty, staff, parents, alumni, trustees and business partners, to develop a sustainability culture and to collaborate with the local community in promoting sustainability best practices. This objective is accomplished in collaboration with the Center of Excellence for Sustainability (CES) at the Office of Public Affairs. The CES is a collaborative initiative, officially established in fall 2011, that brings together education, research and operations to advance sustainability on campus and beyond.