Sustainability is more than a buzzword in the 21st century; it’s a way of life. Learning about sustainability and earning a degree in this field equips students with the knowledge to apply this vital principle to a range of industries, including community planning. 

Here is more about what it means to pursue a sustainability degree and how the degree can be applied to a range of future career options. 

What You’ll Learn When Earning a Bachelor of Science Degree With a Major in Sustainability 

This degree goes beyond sustainable business practices and prepares students to tackle areas like environmental science, public health, public policy, and community planning. While studying sustainability, you’ll also learn about business management and various policies that will make you more effective in whatever job you pursue after graduation. 

Sustainability initiatives require a high level of strategic planning and a lot of moving parts. Your education will provide you with a background in business economics and the policy repercussions of employing sustainability across a broad range of industries. 

You’ll be introduced to the concept of “Triple Bottom Line” thinking, which takes into account how sustainability is linked to the environment, business, and politics. 

Careers You Can Pursue with a Sustainability Degree 

Upon graduation, you can apply for careers in both the public and private sectors. This field is growing, and educated applicants are in high demand for a variety of roles, including: 

  • Sustainability manager or director
  • Environmental analyst
  • Consultant
  • Researcher
  • Analyst
  • Corporate responsibility manager
  • Energy manager
  • Urban planner
  • Nonprofit manager
  • Renewable energy specialist
  • Ecotourism specialist
  • Sustainability entrepreneur

As sustainability becomes a more pressing initiative, degree holders can expect these career options to continue expanding. 

Sustainability and Community Planning 

The fields of sustainability and community planning are closely linked. Generally speaking, community planning involves guiding the future growth and development of an area. It requires forward thinking and anticipating how a community will grow and evolve. 

Today, community planning requires keeping a keen eye on sustainability to ensure that a city or town is vibrant and livable while ensuring development is done in an environmentally responsible way. 

For example, a job in community planning requires one to consider the following concepts from a long-term vision: 

  • Environmental conservation
  • Urban design
  • Economic viability
  • Social equity
  • Community engagement
  • Resilience and adaptability
  • Green spaces
  • Alternative energy
  • Smart growth 

Begin Your Preparation for a Job in Community Planning Today 

Everglades University is an accredited degree program offering adults flexible learning options to pursue their dream careers. If you hope to make a positive impact on the planet, consider enrolling at Everglades University to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Sustainability. We offer both on-site learning at our five local campuses, as well as online learning to accommodate any schedule.