Sociology; Environment Management

Connect communities and the environment.

Turn your passion for people and the planet into a purposeful career. In just five years, you’ll earn both degrees while gaining hands-on experience in community development, sustainability, and environmental justice—preparing you to lead change where it matters most.

The curriculum includes foundational courses in sociology such as social problems, research methods, and environmental sociology—paired with environmental studies courses like Introduction to Environment and Sustainability. In the final two years, students transition into graduate-level MEM coursework, culminating in a 600-hour master’s project serving an environmental organization.

Sociology; Environment Management Requirements

Accelerated Degree

Accelerated Degree programs let students earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in less time. After an accelerated undergraduate study, students begin graduate courses, saving time and money. This fast-track option builds skills and experience, helping students start their careers sooner.

Program Requirements Degree Plan

International Baccalaureate Students

IB Diploma Programme Students, with the opportunity to transfer up to 40 IB Higher Level and Standard Level credits with a score of 4 or higher, the accelerated timeline can become faster, typically two years of undergraduate and two years of graduate coursework.

International Baccalaureate

Next Steps Toward Your Master's Degree

Once students in the accelerated program complete their undergraduate requirements, including the prescribed coursework, General Education, and electives, they become eligible for their BS degree conferral. At this point, students continue directly into the graduate portion of the Master’s in Environmental Management program and should follow the remaining curriculum outlined in their chosen emphasis area.

Scholarships

Scholarships by Department

The Western Colorado University Foundation offers scholarships for this program. Explore eligibility requirements and funding opportunities.

Explore Scholarships

General Western Scholarships

Western Colorado University offers merit—and need-based scholarships, recognizing achievement, financial need, and special talents.

Explore Scholarships

1

Top Skills

Community Engagement
Environmental Justice Analysis
Research & Data Interpretation
Policy Development
Sustainable Planning
Cultural Competency

2

Career Pathways

Environmental Justice Advocate
Sustainability Consultant
Community Development Specialist
Policy Analyst
Conservation Program Manager
Nonprofit Director

Faculty & Staff

Lindsay Dolezal

Program Facilitator and Grants Administrator

Karen Hausdoerffer, MFA

Lecturer in Environment & Sustainability, Graduate Writing Workshop Director

Rich Stromberg, MEM

MEM Lecturer and Graduate Mentor

Behavioral & Social Sciences Department

Department Chairperson

• Philip L. Crossley

• Chair of Behavioral and Social Sciences Department

Administrative Assistant

• Patricia McCarthy

• Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences Administrative Assistant

Contact Information

970.943.7011

970.943.3380

pmccarthy@western.edu

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Kelley Hall 240
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231