Global Perspectives on Sustainability

Understand, Act, Sustain Globally

The Global Perspectives on Sustainability minor at Miami University explores the foundations of environmental sustainability, sustainable development, and the social, economic, and political factors that shape global environmental challenges. This interdisciplinary minor examines how sustainability issues—such as climate change, resource management, food security, water access, and environmental justice—are experienced and addressed across different geographic regions and economic systems.

A central focus of the program is understanding the environmental issues faced by communities in less industrialized and economically developing countries, where the majority of the world’s population lives. Students analyze global inequalities, development strategies, and cross-cultural approaches to sustainability, preparing them for careers in international development, environmental policy, nonprofit work, global studies, and sustainability leadership.

Eligibility
The minor is open to undergraduate students interested in expanding their knowledge of global sustainability, environmental studies, and international perspectives on development.

19 semester hours

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Curriculum and Courses

This interdisciplinary minor requires courses in natural science, social science, environmental, and sustainability. Below are several courses that are in the curriculum.

ATH 175 Global Cultural Diversity
BIO 121 Environmental Biology
CPB 405 Industrial Environmental Control
GEO 271 Human Dimensions of Natural Resource Conservation
IES 274 Introduction to Environment and Sustainability
POL 271 World Politics

full course list

Explore a wide range of majors and co-majors that complement your minor. Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise or broaden your academic experience, these programs are designed to help you build a well-rounded and impactful degree.

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Explore what it means to be a college student at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, where students prepare to go anywhere and everywhere. We’ll be here to help every step of the way as you prepare for college admission, enrollment, and success.