New Major Integrates Science with Human Decision-Making for Sustainability

Central Michigan University is introducing a groundbreaking major this autumn that merges the realms of science and human decision-making to address the growing need for sustainability-focused careers among present-day high school students. The Sustainability, Environment, and Society program is crafted to prompt students to view scientific concepts through the filter of human choices, according to Matthew Liesch, the head of the Geography and Environmental Studies Department. Liesch emphasizes the importance of comprehending human decision-making processes in conjunction with scientific knowledge to tackle the challenges that society will confront in the 21st century.

This interdisciplinary major will blend natural and social sciences, equipping students with problem-solving skills crucial for navigating business landscapes and making informed decisions amidst environmental transformations. The curriculum will explore the nexus of science, management, and policy, paving the way for diverse career opportunities such as sustainability compliance roles in the automotive sector, land conservation positions, and environmental data analysis roles. The program marks a progression from the university’s longstanding environmental studies major, which has been in existence since the 1970s.

Moreover, Central Michigan University’s current environmental studies program offers students practical experience through internships with local entities like the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe, as well as the cities of Mount Pleasant and Midland. Liesch anticipates the continuation of these internships, citing their value in providing students with firsthand exposure to decision-making processes. Through these opportunities, students witness decision-makers balancing various considerations, including inputs from scientific experts and stakeholders.

The Sustainability, Environment, and Society major is set to enroll freshmen starting Fall 2025. By integrating scientific knowledge with insights into human behavior and decision-making, this major aims to prepare students to address complex sustainability challenges and forge impactful careers in a rapidly evolving professional landscape. This innovative program underscores Central Michigan University’s commitment to equipping students with the interdisciplinary skills needed to thrive in a world where science and human agency intersect to shape a sustainable future.