Undergraduate Special Concentration in Sustainable Development

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The undergraduate sustainable development special concentration allows students to draw upon classes in a wide range of disciplines including political science, anthropology, environmental science and economics. The courses required for the special concentration are designed to provide Columbia students with an understanding of both the theory and practice of sustainable development; stimulate a critical examination of the historical and conceptual antecedents; provide experience in complex challenges through direct engagement; and help students imagine alternative futures for our rapidly changing world.

Program of study

The special concentration in sustainable development is not a stand-alone concentration: it is intended to serve as a complement to the disciplinary specialization and methodological training inherent in a concentration or major.In order to graduate, a student must complete a concentration or major in addition to the special concentration. Students wishing to complete a special concentration in sustainable development will work with a program advisor to decide upon course selection and sequencing. The program office will provide and keep on record a planning form to track the fulfillment of requirements for the special concentration.

Courses

A total of 9 courses plus 1 practicum are required. The academic program is structured to provide students with a grounding in both natural and social science systems, followed by a variety of elective courses that address stresses and solutions. It also teaches skills through the GIS class and the new team-based "Sustainable Development Workshop," as well as synthesis, also through the workshop. Students gain experience in the practice of sustainable development through the 1-point practicum or internship. A full list of required courses and electives can be found here and is accessible through the Columbia College bulletin and School of General Studies bulletins.

Resources

Information Packet 2008-2009 - Overview, Frequently Asked Questions, List of Requirements, Course Planning Form
Course Planning Form
Course Approval Application Form
Internship Substitution Application Form (Practicum Section of Requirements)
Special Concentration Declaration Form (pdf)
Environmental and Sustainable Development Workshops
Columbia University Study Abroad

Beyond the Classroom

In addition to coursework, students are encouraged to take advantage of the many resources available at Columbia. By attending lectures and career panels, becoming active in student organizations and pursuing internship opportunities, students will gain broad perspective on sustainable development and gather ideas on shaping their future goals. The Earth Institute's Office of Academic and Research programs specifically offers research assistant positions and special events for undergraduates throughout the year.

For more information on the Special Concentration in Sustainable Development, please contact:

Kevin Griffin - griff@ldeo.columbia.edu
Interim Program Director
Special Concentration in Sustainable Development
Associate Professor, Earth and Environmental Sciences
Office Hours: International Affairs Building, Room 1408
Wednesday, 2:00-3:30pm

Office: 845.365.8371
Fax: 845.365.8150

Catherine Aldrich - cqa2@columbia.edu
Program Manager
Office of Academic and Research Programs
1408 International Affairs Building
420 W. 118th Street
New York, NY 10964-8000 USA

Office: 212.854.9610
Fax: 212.864.4847