Economics/Environmental Studies, BA

Combined major offered by the Department of Economics, College of Business and Economics and the Department of Environmental Studies, College of the Environment.

98-105 credits (including foundations courses and major)

Introduction

Economics deals with how people living in a world of scarcity make choices. These choices inevitably involve costs. Questions examined in environmental economics include efficient resource use, preservation of wilderness and biological diversity, local and regional air pollution, global climate change, and treatment of toxic substances. Students learn how to use economic principles to help understand the causes of environmental problems and to identify potential remedies.

Environmental Studies draws on basic knowledge of how natural systems work and is applied to solving problems largely created by human activities. Often these problems are represented by disturbances in the functioning of natural systems. In addition to the study of the natural environment, a study of laws and policy related to the environment provides a foundation for solving environmental problems.

Why Consider an Economics/Environmental Studies Major?

A combined major in Economics/Environmental Studies is available to students having a strong interest in the economic aspects of environmental studies and natural resources. The degree awarded is a B.A. in Economics.

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

Students planning to major in Economics/Environmental Studies should declare their major as early as possible, preferably their first year at Western in both the College of Business and Economics (CBE), and College of the Environment (CENV).

Admissions: Programs in CBE and CENV are based upon prior academic performance and other evidence of high promise. A student must complete the following requirements for admission to the Economics/Environmental Studies major:

• Confirmed admission to Western Washington University
• Achieved a 2.5 cumulative college GPA (including transfer work)

Students apply for admission by completing the online application form at cbe.wwu.edu/apply-cbe.

The Economics/Environmental Studies major is a degree shared between the CBE and CENV. For students to gain access to the environmental studies’ major coursework, students need to complete ENVS 203 and MATH 114 or MATH 156.

Students should see the admissions advisor in CENV in Environmental Studies Building 539 or call 360-650-3520. Students who are admitted to this major will have an advisor in CBE and another in CENV.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.