Bachelor of Environment, Economy, Development and Sustainability at The Ohio State University
The Environment, Economy, Development and Sustainability at The Ohio State University is a Bachelor program designed for students who want to build the knowledge and skills required for careers in this field. Delivered on campus at the Columbus campus in United States of America, the program is taught in English and takes 4 years to complete. Students study in a Full Time environment while preparing for future professional opportunities. The next intake starts on August 24, 2027.
About Bachelor of Environment, Economy, Development and Sustainability
Environment, Economy, Development and Sustainability
Degree: BS
Campus: Columbus
School: Environment and Natural Resources
The environment, economy, development and sustainability (EEDS) major is a multi-disciplinary major that focuses on the economic, business and social dimensions of sustainability. This cutting-edge major provides the core knowledge and skills students need to launch a career in sustainability in the private, public or non-profit sectors.
Get started
Admitted students can directly enroll as majors in EEDS within the School of Environment and Natural Resources. A student’s first year includes several foundational courses in environment and natural resources and general education requirements such as mathematics, chemistry, biology, the humanities, etc.
Curriculum
All EEDS students take an integrated set of course work in environmental economics, business management, environmental sociology, community and international development, ecological engineering and environmental sciences. Students build on this foundation by choosing to specialize in one of four areas:
- Sustainability and business: Study how and why businesses are moving to a sustainability management approach and learn the tools needed to assess, manage and lead sustainability in a business context.
- Environmental economics and policy analysis: Study how to measure and enhance the benefits of ecosystem services and learn how to design and evaluate policies that address environmental problems by accounting for the natural science and social dimensions of economic activity.
- Community development: Study the theories and processes of community planning, local economies and social change. Learn the skills needed to implement positive social, economic and environmental change while taking a holistic community approach and encouraging citizen engagement.
- International development: Study the theory and practice of sustainable development in an international setting and learn how to reduce long-term poverty by developing approaches that promote improved, secure and sustainable livelihood strategies for those whose basic survival depends directly on the natural environment.
All EEDS students take a project-based capstone course in which they develop and pitch their own sustainability project and receive feedback from outside experts in the field.
Study abroad
EEDS students can also study abroad to explore the connections between humans and the natural environment in different parts of the world. EEDS students may be especially interested in Sustaining Human Societies and the Natural Environment—a study abroad opportunity in Queensland, Australia.
Internship
The college works with businesses, non-profit organizations, institutions and public agencies to establish a variety of internship opportunities. Students can tailor an internship that complements their particular passion for sustainability, provides the work experience they want on their resume and starts to build their professional networks. By working with SENR Career Services, students can find local, national and international internships related to their career goals.
Honors and Scholars
The Environment and Natural Resources Honors program challenges high-ability students by providing a program in greater breadth and depth and provides special recognition and scholarships for outstanding scholastic achievement. Freshmen with University Honors standing may be accepted directly as a candidate for the Environment and Natural Resources Honors program.
Environment and Natural Resources Scholars share an interest and passion for the environment and being outdoors. Students participate in various environmentally based service learning projects, educational trips, and seminars and workshops with leading environmental researchers. The Scholars live together in Morrill Tower.
Learn more at honors-scholars.osu.edu.
Research
Students interested in pursuing research can engage in the generation of new knowledge and understanding alongside world-class faculty and complete requirements to graduate with research distinction.
Students present their research at the college’s Undergrad Research Forum to prepare for the university-wide Denman Undergraduate Research Forum.
Student organizations
EEDS students have opportunities to go on local field trips and hear from outside speakers who are engaged in sustainability in their own company or organization.
Students have the opportunity to join the SUSTAINS Learning Community, which fosters connections among students who are interested in becoming sustainable leaders. Students will learn how sustainability influences their own and other’s lives and how their actions impact society.
The Ohio State University campus offers many opportunities for students to engage in sustainability outside the classroom, including campus-based sustainability initiatives such as the Zero Waste Stadium initiative and the Fisher College of Business’ Net Impact Sustainability Certificate Program.
Possible careers
Sustainability is a rapidly growing area that requires knowledge and skills that have both depth and breadth. Focusing on the economic, business and social dimensions of sustainability, EEDS gives students that have a passion and a purpose the tools they need to become agents of change.
Below are examples of sustainability-related jobs:
- Purchasing and materials manager
- International project manager
- Cooperative enterprise manager
- Community organizer
- Environmental conservation economist
- Regional planner
- Peace Corps volunteer
- Environmental policy analyst
- Supply chain analyst
- Sustainability coordinator
- Energy economist
- Energy efficiency program manager
- Capacity development expert
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Environment, Economy, Development and Sustainability at The Ohio State University
Entry Requirements
Criteria of our holistic review, in no particular order.
Successful completion of university preparatory courses
High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA
Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community
Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement (e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)
Status as a first-generation university student
Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area
High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors
Eligibility for and likelihood of benefiting from organized support services at Ohio State
Enrollment in your intended major
Once it is determined that you are admissible, you will be considered for enrollment in the college of your intended major. Read about
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
English Program Requirements
we require evidence of English language proficiency, unless you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Tuition and Fee Information for Bachelor of Environment, Economy, Development and Sustainability at The Ohio State University
How to Apply for Bachelor of Environment, Economy, Development and Sustainability at The Ohio State University
How do I submit scores?
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Tips for sending scores to Ohio State
Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.
If you already took the test but didn't send your scores to Ohio State, you can order them for a fee. Order in advance to be sure scores reach us by the application deadline.
We must receive standardized test scores by your application deadline (either November 1 or February 1 for autumn semester applicants).
October 2 (SAT) and October 23 (ACT) are your last 2021 test dates if you want your scores to be considered for our November 1 early action deadline. Important! If you plan to test on those dates, you must request that Ohio State receive scores when you register for the test. And please note: If you choose to have your scores considered, you won’t be able to review scores from these dates prior to submitting your application by the November 1 deadline.
Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.
Is the essay required?
The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.
Should I take a standardized test more than once?
Ohio State looks at the highest composite score from a single test date. Taking the test (and having scores sent to us) more than once, while not required, may work to your advantage.
How does Ohio State look at scores?
When considering students for admission or Honors and Scholars selection, we consider the best official composite / combined score from a single test administration. Ohio State does not mix sub-scores from multiple tests.
These items plus the Common Application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. We must receive all items by the deadline to consider your application on time.
Official transcripts
High school transcripts
Request that your high school or secondary school send transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates for coursework from the final four years (grades 9-12) to Ohio State.
How to send your transcripts to Ohio State:
Your high school counselor can upload the transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates using Common App, Naviance or other secure electronic delivery service.
Your high school counselor can email the transcripts to [email protected].
If electronic submission is not possible, please mail your official transcripts to our express mail address.
Faxed transcripts will not be accepted.
Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, an authorized translator or a teacher of the language. Any additional requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you've applied.
Official ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.How do I submit my scores?
We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent electronically directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.
Optional: Recommendation from a teacher or counselor
While not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common Application.
If an electronic option isn’t available, your counselor may email your letter(s) to
[email protected]; the letter must include your first and last name and OSU ID number, found on the email we send acknowledging receipt of your application. Letters sent via email are subject to sender verification.
Official proof of English language skills
You must request that your testing agency send official scores electronically to Ohio State demonstrating the English proficiency level outlined below:
TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition*): 79 or higher
IELTS or IELTS Indicator*: 6.5 or higher
ACT: 21 or higher on the English section
SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test
Duolingo*: 105 or higher
You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.
*To accommodate applicants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Ohio State University will accept Duolingo, the IELTS Indicator and the TOEFL internet-based test Home Edition from any international student applying for spring 2022 or autumn 2022 admission. All Duolingo test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival to campus. TOEFL Home Edition and IELTS Indicator test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival unless they qualify for a TOEFL or IELTS score exemption.
United States of America, Columbus