Environmental Studies Online Degree
BA in Environmental Studies Online
Engage with social justice issues, learn the theories of ecopsychology and economics, as they relate to earth-based change, and participate in contemplative exercises that interact with the sacred nature of our planet in Naropa’s online Environmental Studies degree.
Program Overview
Naropa’s Environmental Studies online degree offers specialized tracks in Contemplation, Theory, Action, and Justice. This degree integrates regenerative and restorative practices to address climate change. Your journey of service begins with exploration of contemplative teachings, sustainability, environmental philosophy, policy, leadership, indigenous wisdom, and your own lived experience. You will also delve into social justice, ecopsychology, and economics related to earth-based change.
Contemplation
In the Environmental Studies Degree Online, you will learn embodied strategies for meeting climate grief and anxiety to face the challenges of an increasingly uncertain future. Experiential exercises in nature, including place bonding and a day-long solo walk, provide a container for exploring your interrelationship with all the other-than-human beings that create our planet. Spiritual ecology, pilgrimage, and the work of Joanna Macy contribute to your journey.
Theory
Through Naropa’s program for the environmental studies online degree, students engage in sustainable alternatives such as Deep Ecology, Ecopsychology, and Science for Sustainability to question the dominant cultural narrative and consider alternatives that provide life-sustaining pathways to planetary well-being.
Action
Taking effective action is an antidote to despair. It requires deepening our ability to imagine and implement ecological, economic, and political alternatives while simultaneously developing our own leadership style through practical immersion in nonviolent communication, group facilitation, project management, and community organizing.
Justice
Every aspect of our program is shaped by an unwavering commitment to justice. Oppression of people and the planet grows from the same root. By addressing issues of environmental justice, indigenous knowledge, and restorative practices, students gain a sense of their social location and ways to make an impact.
Quick Facts
- Online degree
- 39 credit hours (of the 120 credits required for a bachelor's degree)
- Transfer up to 90 semester credits
- 12 required classes
- Contemplative practice
- Internship course
- Capstone project
- Average age: 26
- Admissions open for 2026
Program Format
Naropa University’s undergraduate program is a four-year, fully accredited Bachelor of Arts degree program. The Environmental Studies online degree consists of 39 credits, fully online, equipping students with knowledge and skills to tackle environmental problems. The curriculum integrates the complex and interconnected relationships of the natural environment, human culture, and personal experiences through interrelated strands: contemplative practice, sacred ecology, science for sustainability, and environmental history and justice.
Course Spotlight
The Science for Sustainability
As part of the environmental studies degree, this course allows students to delve into sustainability through the lenses of ecology, climate science, and systems thinking, gaining a deep understanding of their interconnectedness with human and natural systems. Through a combination of lectures and hands-on activities, students learn the complexities of Earth’s living systems and the nuances of sustainability research. The course critically examines challenges shaped by different worldviews, encouraging students to think critically about diverse approaches to sustainability. By the end of the course, students will have developed the ability to identify and articulate key sustainability principles and methodologies. They will also design and execute a project that integrates these core concepts, equipping them to lead and advocate for sustainable initiatives.
Degree
Requirements
A Bachelor of Arts degree (120 credits) consists of a Core Curriculum (24 credits) and at least one major, as well as minors and/or elective courses of the student’s choosing. The Environmental Studies Online degree includes a total of 39 credit hours.
Online Environmental Studies Major Requirements
Required Courses: 15 credits
- ENV 370e: Environmental Philosophy and Ecopsychology [Theory] (3)
- ENV 411e: Science for Sustainability [Theory] (3)
- ENV 350e: Nature, the Sacred, and Contemplation [Contemplative] (3)
- ENV 401e: Environmental Leadership Skills [Action] (3)
- ENV 355e: Environmental Justice [Justice] (3)
Action: Choose 3 credits
- ENV 250e: Restorative Principles and Practices (3)
- ENV 341e: Contemporary Environmental Movements (3)
- ENV 490e: Special Topics: Activism
Contemplative: Choose 3 credits
- ENV 245e: Geography: Pilgrimage and Sacred Landscape (3)
- ENV 361e: Spiritual Ecology (3)
- ENV 490e: Special Topics: Contemplative
Justice: Choose 3 credits
- ENV 257e: Food Justice (3)
- ENV 363e: Indigenous Environmental Issues (3)
- ENV 490e: Special Topics: Justice
Theory: Choose 3 credits
- ENV 207e: History of the Environmental Movement (3)
- ENV 253e: Solidarity Economics (3)
- ENV 490e: Special Topics: Theory
Electives: choose 6 credits Choose 6 credits from the list above or below:
- PSYB 329e: Approaches to Healing (3)
- PSYB 354e: Transpersonal Psychology (3)
- REL 160e: Meditation Practicum I (3)
- TRA 133e: Yoga I: Foundations (3)
Capstone: 6 credits
- COL 450e: Internship (3)
- COR 440e: Capstone II (3)
Total: 39 credits
Why Choose Naropa?
Cutting-Edge Approaches
Inspired by the work of Joanna Macy and thought leaders in ecopsychology and deep ecology, Naropa's BA in Environmental Studies Online offers a comprehensive and cutting-edge approach. Students gain insight into approaches to living systems thought, leadership models, the history of the environmental movement, and indigenous knowledge. Students have the opportunity to participate in an internship course and a capstone project to integrate their learning.
Contemplative Methodology
The online environmental studies degree helps students deal with climate grief and worry about future challenges. Students will participate in nature-centered contemplative exercises that enhance their interconnection with the more-than-human world.
Outstanding Faculty
Naropa's environmental studies faculty has abundant knowledge, passion, and real-world experience. Our faculty consists of diverse scholars and practitioners who inspire the next generation of environmental leaders.
How this Program Prepares You
Internship and Senior Project
The Environmental Studies degree program has fostered partnerships with community organizations where students can arrange internships. Moreover, BA majors are required to complete an individual senior project in the final year of the program. Students will integrate their learning and launch their contributions as change agents.
Contemplative and Theoretical Learning
The Environmental Studies online degree program is rooted in contemplative practices, offering a pathway to cultivate meaning-making in a chaotic world and integrate the challenges facing our planet. The degree curriculum delves into history, philosophy, and economics to foster a comprehensive understanding of interconnections through diverse perspectives.
Sense of Justice
Our program is steadfastly dedicated to promoting justice in all its facets. By tackling topics related to environmental justice, indigenous knowledge, and restorative principles, students acquire an understanding of their social location and methods to effect change.
What You'll Learn
Contemplative Practices
Acquire physical and mental techniques to navigate climate-related challenges. Engage in nature-focused reflective exercises to deepen your connection with the environment.
Action-Oriented Skills
Participate in activities that develop both internal and external capabilities crucial for effective environmental stewardship.
Theory and Concepts
Demonstrate mastery of environmental theories and their practical applications.
Social Justice
Investigate environmental impacts on marginalized communities and develop strategies to address these injustices effectively.
Ecology & Climate Change
Understand ecological principles and gain practical skills to address pressing climate challenges.
Career Opportunities with an Environmental Studies Online Degree
Upon completing Naropa’s environmental studies online degree, graduates will find themselves well-prepared to embark on various professional paths, each offering unique opportunities for their expertise and skills. They can pursue further education for careers such as holistic health practitioner, organic farmer, landscaper, environmental educator, stormwater coordinator for local government, and wilderness guide, among many others.
- Forester: manage forests and oversee planning and ecological assessments.
- Environmental Restoration Planner: improve ecosystems and environmental health.
- Recycling Coordinator: oversee and promote efficient recycling programs.
- Conservation Scientist: protect ecosystems with sustainable practices.
- Climate Change Policy Analyst: develop strategies to address climate change.
- Natural Sciences Manager: lead scientific research projects.
- Fish and Game Warden: enforce hunting and fishing laws, protecting wildlife.
- Chief Sustainability Officer: drive environmentally responsible practices in organizations.
Hear from a Graduate
Social justice, our environment, peace studies, and diversity have always been a big piece of my life. Naropa fosters a space for these issues to be talked about and acted out.
Candice Kearns Orlando
FAQs About the
Environmental Studies Online Degree
What is the difference between Naropa’s online environmental degree and the on-campus degree?
The difference between Naropa’s online and on-campus environmental studies degrees may be centered on different course requirements and credits, but this does not present a difference regarding the major. Both on-campus and online degree students graduate with a BA in environmental studies. Students can receive a quality education even if they are not able to relocate to our campus in Colorado.
What is the difference between environmental studies and environmental science?
Environmental studies and environmental science are related fields, but they differ in their focus and approach. Whereas environmental science studies natural systems and uses technology to keep the environment safe, environmental studies look at how humans and nature interact and how science and policy connect.
What can you do with an environmental studies online degree?
Individuals who have completed the online degree in environmental studies can continue their education to explore career paths like holistic health professional, organic agriculture specialist, city food supervisor, early childhood educator, operations head for a gardening firm, landscape artist, director of a non-profit organization, creative artist, environmental instruction specialist, art instructor, interior decoration expert, author/editor, local government stormwater liaison, and wilderness tour guide.
What sets Naropa’s environmental studies online degree apart from other programs?
Naropa’s online BA in environmental studies addresses the psychological, emotional, spiritual, and social aspects of climate justice with sustainable and regenerative solutions. Furthermore, students learn how to manage climate grief and negative emotions toward climate change issues with a unique contemplative approach. With Naropa’s environmental studies online degree, students will experience an exceptional education tailored for remote learning.
Learn More About the Program
Connect
with your counselor
Rachel Thompson
Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions
- 303-970-9831
- rachel.thompson@naropa.edu
- Schedule Appointment
Ready to Apply?
Admission Requirements
Academic excellence and the willingness to carry out introspective work are highly valued at Naropa University. Learn more about admission requirements and the application process for undergraduate students.
Undergraduate Students
- Students with a 3.0 GPA or Higher Applicants boasting a GPA of 3.0 or higher, an 83+ average on the 100-point grading scale, and/or a GED score of 175+, and a solid track record of academic achievement, are warmly accepted to Naropa University with minimal eligibility criteria.
- Students with Less than 3.0 GPA Should your academic performance fall below a GPA of 3.0, an average of less than 83+ on the 100-point grading scale, or a GED score of 145–174, but you aspire to benefit from a Naropa education and anticipate contributing to our expanding community, we encourage you to submit your application.
Transfer Students: For students who are still in search of an education that not only nurtures their personal growth but also fosters professional development, Naropa awaits you. The transfer of credits from your previous institutions will be easily completed, and our Transfer Student Guarantee ensures comprehensive financial and advisory support for all transfer students. Learn more about transferring.
International Students
Our university is rooted in principles of inclusivity, diversity, and a warm welcome of different cultures. We believe that the strength of our community lies in the richness of its diversity, and we eagerly anticipate the unique contributions that each student will bring to our vibrant and dynamic environment. Learn more about applying to Naropa as an international student.
Costs and Financial Aid
Naropa is dedicated to broadening access to education for a diverse range of students. Delve into our undergraduate costs and aids page to gain insights into tuition, grants, scholarships, and available opportunities. Use our cost calculator to estimate your potential expenses at Naropa.
Undergraduate Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarships are a great way to help with the costs of going to school. Naropa University offers an array of scholarship opportunities to undergraduate students. Students may be eligible to receive scholarships through their admissions application, by applying for scholarships, or by being nominated for a scholarship. For more detailed information about the different scholarships available and how to receive them, please review our undergraduate scholarship page.
Interested in our Environmental Studies Online Degree?
Read our blog & magazine or listen to our podcast!
Magazine
The Legacy of Joanna Macy
Episode 98. Stephanie Yuhas, PhD: Honoring the Earth
Mindful U Podcast 98. Stephanie Yuhas, PhD: Honoring the Earth: Climate, Ecology, and Ecopsychology Today’s episode of our podcast is available at Mindful U, Apple, Spotify, and Stitcher now! We...
Episode 83. Travis Cox: Ecopsychology and Psychedelics
The newest episode of our university podcast, ‘Mindful U at Naropa University,’ is out on iTunes and Spotify now! We are excited to announce this week’s episode features special (returning) guest Travis Cox, PhD. Join...
Episode 7. Travis Cox: Sustainability is Ecopsychology
Episode 36. Stephanie Yuhas: Interspiritual Dimensions
