College of the Environment

Introduction

Teena Gabrielson, Dean

College of the Environment is one of seven colleges constituting Western Washington University, consistently recognized as one of the outstanding public institutions of higher education in the West.

Since its establishment in 1969, College of the Environment has become a recognized leader in combining socially relevant research, outstanding undergraduate and graduate education, dedicated community partnerships, and innovative thinking into one, interdisciplinary college focused on the environment. As one of the oldest environmental colleges in the nation, our integrative approach is designed to educatetrain students for creative, fulfilling careers in a changing world.

College of the Environment faculty and staff are readily available to collaborate with student initiatives in learning that span disciplinary boundaries. Our degree programs prioritize interdisciplinary and high-impact learning experiences including fieldwork, community projects, lab-based science, capstones, and internships. Complementing our departments in Environmental Sciences, Environmental Studies, and Urban and Environmental Planning and Policy are our Institute in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, the Resilience Institute, the Institute for Watershed Studies, the Spatial Institute, and our engagement with Shannon Point Marine Center, the Sustainability Engagement Institute, and the Institute for Energy Studies.

College of the Environment acknowledges with respect …

We acknowledge with respect the Coast Salish territory, including Lummi Nation and Nooksack peoples on whose traditional territory College of the Environment stands.

Mission

College of the Environment addresses today’s environmental issues and prepares tomorrow’s interdisciplinary problem solvers. We accomplish this mission by integrating outstanding educational programs, faculty-student collaboration, applied research, and professional and community service.

Vision

College of the Environment is a premier institution for the education of future environmental experts and leaders.

Commitment to Equity and Inclusion

College of the Environment is committed to creating and sustaining an accessible, inclusive and supportive community for students. The college values and respects all members of its communities, each of whom individually and collaboratively contribute to create, strengthen and enrich our learning environment. 

Academic Programs Leading to Undergraduate and Graduate Degrees

College Admission and Advisement

Application instructions can be found in the catalog by degree program and on the departmentlal websites at cenv.wwu.edu/undergraduate-applications-college-environment.

Department Chairs

Other College Information

Departments, Courses and Programs

Courses listed in this catalog constitute a record of the total academic program of the University. For an exact scheduling of courses at Western, students should consult Browse Classes and Outreach and Continuing Education  bulletins.