STU expands environmental program, revamps sustainability focus

St. Thomas University has introduced a new major and honours program in Sustainability and Environmental Studies, evolving from the former Environment and Society program. (Credit: St. Thomas University Students' Union)

St. Thomas University has launched a new major and honours in Sustainability and Environmental Studies, reflecting a growing need to prepare students for careers in environmental change and sustainable development.

The program, formerly known as Environment and Society, has evolved to include 12 new courses and a stronger emphasis on solutions-based learning that connects environmental issues with social, political and economic systems.

“We’ve had our Environment and Society program for 15 years,” said Janice Harvey, director of Sustainability and Environmental Studies. “But the field of environmental studies has evolved to focus on sustainability more broadly, which integrates how environmental problems arise from social structures and systems. We wanted our program to reflect that shift.”

Janice Harvey, director of Sustainability and Environmental Studies at St. Thomas University. (Credit: St. Thomas University)

The change also gives students the option to pursue a stand-alone major or honours without requiring a double major, making the program more accessible and flexible. Harvey said this adjustment came partly in response to conversations with STU recruiters and feedback from students and alumni who supported the rebranding and broader course offerings.

The department has added courses such as Understanding Sustainability, Energy and Society, Building Regenerative Food Systems and Communicating Sustainability.

Each course encourages students to approach environmental challenges through ethical, cultural, and economic perspectives while gaining practical experience in sustainability assessment and community-based projects.

Harvey emphasized that the program aims to prepare students for the growing number of sustainability-focused careers. STU is currently working toward accreditation with ECO Canada, a national organization that connects environmental professionals with employers across the country.

“If we get accredited, our graduates will receive certification as Environmental Professionals-in-Training,” said Harvey. “That links them into a national network of employers and internship opportunities.”

She added that the program’s long-term goal is to prepare students to be changemakers in their communities. 

“We hope our graduates stay in New Brunswick and contribute to building sustainable pathways here,” she said. “Liberal arts students are creative. They often make their own opportunities and lead change from the ground up.”

With the expansion of Sustainability and Environmental Studies, STU reinforces its commitment to addressing global environmental issues through critical thinking, social justice and community engagement.