Susquehanna University is now offering an environmental education minor.
Students who minor in environmental education will gain foundations in ecology, sustainability and environmental justice while developing practical skills in teaching, communication and outreach. Fieldwork at Susquehanna’s CEER Field Station and Freshwater Research Institute provides opportunities for students to apply coursework in real-world settings that address today’s environmental challenges.
“Our new minor in environmental education empowers students to become storytellers and educators who can translate complex science into meaningful action,” said Kathy Straub, dean of the School of Natural & Social Sciences at Susquehanna. “By pairing classroom learning with hands-on fieldwork, Susquehanna students will be uniquely prepared to inspire communities and lead the way toward a more sustainable future.”
Susquehanna’s environmental education minor enhances several majors across campus, including biology, earth & environmental sciences, education, communications and creative writing. Students minoring in environmental education may take classes in anthropology, biology, English, political science and religion, to name a few.
“By pairing a major with environmental education, students will be prepared to inform, inspire and lead initiatives that make science accessible to a broad audience and sustainability part of everyday life,” said Ann Czeponis, director of environmental education and internships at Susquehanna.
Developed using the North American Association for Environmental Education Guidelines for Excellence in Professional Development, the environmental education minor ensures that students gain the knowledge, skills and competencies needed to inspire environmental literacy and stewardship across diverse communities. This alignment also positions Susquehanna well for NAAEE accreditation, a national distinction the university intends to seek after the minor has been in place for two years.
