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Environmental and Sustainability Science

Program Overview

Program Overview

It's a great moment to consider a career in sustainable agriculture or renewable energy. Now is the time to take your passion of conservation to the next level. You'll find this is the perfect major for you.
Grow in a holistic approach to stewarding creation and people. We'll teach you modern sustainability's core principles. Let us teach you about people, society and economic prosperity with social purpose. Increase your understanding of responsible oversight of human activities — and what it means to take care of our planet.

We'll lead you in these concepts beyond the classroom: you'll encounter them in the laboratory and in field experiences. 

We are passionate about advancing sustainability science through education, research, training and service. So we’ll connect you to service and internship opportunities in Nashville, whether it's in a business, area farm, food, manufacturing environments or other agencies.  Upon graduation, you'll be well-prepared for your career, since sustainable practice can translate to every profession, organization, culture, market and environment.

Job placement

With a top-tier university education on your resume, you’ll be in high demand, whether you choose to launch your career or begin graduate school. Most of our programs have a placement rate of at least 90 percent within six months of graduation.

Expert faculty, small class sizes

Learn from award-winning, experienced faculty who actually care about you. Our small class sizes allow us to get to know you personally. We lead an approachable community within our respective programs. Our faculty connections are the experts on their subject matter, too.

Nashville, TN

A big city. An even bigger opportunity. We consider Nashville, Tennessee, an extension of our classroom, and as a leading city in many industries, that means you’ll gain experience and insight you won’t find anywhere else.

Notable Students

 Isadora Koch

Composting program - Isadora Koch

Koch making a difference in the environment one pound of food at a time. Lipscomb students are making a difference in the world by putting what they are learning in the classroom to practice.

Read the full story

Our Faculty

  • Emily Stutzman Jones headshot

    Emily Stutzman

    Associate Professor

    With a M.S. in rural sociology and Ph.D. in forestry from Auburn University, Emily Stutzman joined the Institute for Sustainable Practice in January 2015 as our full-time Academic Director. She...

    Meet Emily Stutzman
  • Lipscomb Featured Faculty

    Patrick Garner

    Adjunct Faculty

    Meet Patrick Garner

Career Paths

Environmental Scientists and Specialists

Environmental scientists and specialists use their knowledge of the natural sciences to protect the environment and human health. They may clean up polluted areas, advise policymakers, or work with industry to reduce waste.

Environmental Science and Protection Technicians

Environmental science and protection technicians monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution and contamination, including those affecting public health.

Agricultural Engineers

Agricultural engineers attempt to solve agricultural problems concerning power supplies, the efficiency of machinery, the use of structures and facilities, pollution and environmental issues, and the storage and processing of agricultural products.