Sustainability is a hot topic, and everyone is talking about reducing their carbon footprint. If this topic interests you, we compiled a list of schools that strive to be environmentally friendly, facilitate “green” volunteer opportunities, and provide an academic setting focused on sustainability.
If you’re passionate about saving the planet or just interested in learning more about using less, these schools might be a great addition to your college list.
Students who are truly passionate about sustainability may want to attend a college devoted specifically to the environment. The College of Environmental Science and Forestry is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system. This small institution enrolls 1,800 undergraduates and offers programs in a variety of disciplines, such as environmental resources engineering, environmental studies, forest ecosystem science, natural resources management, sustainability management, and more. ESF students don’t just learn in the classroom, they also participate in lab, studio, and fieldwork and can also pursue internships or study abroad.
In addition to ESF’s offerings, students have access to classes, libraries, computer labs, student clubs, and dining halls through a partnership with neighboring Syracuse University. Community service is a big part of student life, with more than 70,000 hours logged each year. ESF also offers a Ranger School, giving students the opportunity to earn an associate degree and gain hands-on experience in ESF’s 2,800-acre forest in Wanakena, New York, in the Adirondacks.
Arizona State University was the first public university in the nation to create a School of Sustainability, offering students the opportunity to earn an undergraduate degree in sustainability or sustainable food systems — minors in these disciplines are also available. These programs equip students with the knowledge to approach sustainability challenges holistically, develop creative solutions, and work collaboratively to address real-world problems. Graduates are prepared for a variety of careers.
Located in Tempe, a suburb of Phoenix, Arizona State University is within a few hours’ drive of several national parks and forests — the Grand Canyon, for example, is about four hours away. ASU is dedicated to creating solutions that drive opportunity, sustainability, and transformation for communities. Notable projects include SolarSPELL, a global humanitarian effort providing solar-powered library devices. With almost 153,000 students enrolled across its campus locations and online, ASU is one of the largest public universities by enrollment in the U.S.
This public university, known to locals as U-Dub, offers a College of the Environment, which grants students the opportunity to study in areas such as atmospheric and climate science, environmental science, oceanography, marine biology, and more. Additionally, the university follows an action plan designed to reduce its carbon footprint and make sustainability a practice across the UW system.
At the University of Washington, green doesn’t just mean environmentalism — Seattle isn’t called Emerald City for nothing. On campus, students can catch a glimpse of Mt. Rainer (if the weather cooperates) from Drumheller Fountain or stroll through the cherry trees on the quad. Seattle is home to the state’s official arboretum and a lush array of plants and trees that benefit from the region’s rainy seasons. Seattle is also a cultural touchstone for the West Coast. From its famous music scene to its pool of literary talent, there is no shortage of events and activities for U-Dub students.
This private university is situated within the bustling city limits of Atlanta, where students can take advantage of both the familiarity of a small campus and the opportunities of a major metropolitan city. Emory has taken great strides to become more environmentally friendly and has organized sustainability-related information into one comprehensive website, which lists everything from emissions reduction data and LEED Green Building ratings to sustainable campus dining options.
Emory University integrates sustainability into its academic offerings as well, and professors have woven the issue into a surprising array of topics. So far, over 400 courses in 40 academic departments cover issues related to sustainability. To take a break from studying, students can get out and about and venture into the city or explore the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, which features hiking trails, trout fishing, waterfalls, and horseback riding.
As part of its systemwide strategic plan, MPact 2025, the University of Minnesota aims to integrate sustainability into all aspects of its operations, teaching, research, and outreach. The Office of Sustainability outlines UMN’s progress and goals toward its sustainability initiatives and commitment to becoming carbon neutral by 2050. The university hosts various sustainability programs, such as coffee chats, climate literacy teach-ins, and Earth Month activities, to engage the campus community. Additionally, UMN’s Institute on the Environment brings students and faculty together to address sustainability in society.
Known for its beautiful green spaces, historic architecture, and state-of-the-art facilities, UMN’s Twin Cities campus spans almost 1,400 acres and includes over 300 buildings. The campus is also situated within the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, providing students with opportunities to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in a lively urban setting.
Other schools recognized for their commitment to sustainability include UCLA, Williams College, Colorado State University, Lewis & Clark College, Colby College, UC Berkeley, and Stanford, among others. To find out more about sustainability at the schools on your college list, check out their websites. Remember, even if a school on your list doesn’t make the grade, you can always lead the change for a more sustainable campus.
Still trying to determine which schools are the best fit for your needs and goals? At IvyWise, our college admissions counselors help students craft a balanced list of schools they would be thrilled to attend — even schools they may not have considered before. Contact us to learn how we can help you achieve college admissions success.
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