College of Arts Sciences to begin offering sustainability degree
Beginning in the fall of 2012, the University of South Dakota will offer a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Sustainability. This degree program will contribute to the development of the South Dakota workforce in industries such as wind energy, hydroelectric power, geothermal energy technologies, biofuels and “green” construction practices.
“The demand for experts in sustainability is growing across the country," stated Matthew Moen, dean of the College of Arts & Sciences. “Graduates of our program will ultimately be prepared for exciting careers in industries that the state has identified as crucial to South Dakota’s future.”
The Governor’s Office of Economic Development has identified renewable energy – at the core of sustainability – as an emerging needs industry in the state. Students majoring in sustainability will have an opportunity to pursue careers in both the private sector and government, including the areas of sustainable practices, renewable energy, community planning, non-governmental organizations focused on sustainable development and education.
The curriculum for a sustainability major involves the completion of 36 credit hours, with 18 in the required common core and 18 to be selected as electives from courses available in the selected specialization. Offering a major in sustainability is consistent with a range of established initiatives at USD, including the Missouri River Institute and the University of South Dakota Department of Biology’s specialization in conservation and biodiversity.
For more information about the sustainability major at USD, please visit www.usd.edu/as or call (605) 677-5221