The Department of Gender and Sexuality studies at UCR will launch a bachelor of science degree program for sustainability studies in fall. The program will focus on social and environmental justice issues such as climate change, air and water pollution, toxic contamination, energy demands, economic growth, agricultural production and environmental degradation.

Students in the new program will be required to take multiple science courses which range from engineering courses to courses regarding gender and sustainability. Additional requirements include a quantitative course and a seminar to complete the degree.

The new program was approved by the Riverside academic senate in May, and corresponds with UC President Janet Napolitano’s sustainability initiative for all UC’s to become carbon neutral by 2025.

“In a time of growing concern over natural resources, the new major in Sustainability Studies will give UCR undergraduates the opportunity to develop solutions to challenges to our region and to the world as they complete their undergraduate education,” Peter Graham, associate dean of the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences stated in a press release.