School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences

Sustainability

UT Dallas > School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences > About > Programs > Sustainability

Sustainability can be described as a state in which the needs of the present generation can be met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs (cf. Brundtland, 1987)[1]. Sustainability studies investigate the relationships between ecological, economic, social, and political phenomena, and behavior and policies impacting those relationships. Sustainability studies’ core concern thereby involves understanding human impact on the natural environment and deducing wise stewardship of natural resources. It may also include the study of economic development, inequality, governance institutions, education, public opinion, civil society, and the ethics of social responsibility. As such, virtually every program in the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences (EPPS) touches in some way on sustainability.

Students in EPPS can pursue the study of sustainability as part of their Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degrees, with the most likely programs being Geospatial Information Sciences or Public Policy and Political Economy. Regardless of their major, students can fulfill elective requirements by taking courses from other programs in the school, and Ph.D. students can form multidisciplinary dissertation committees. Students have opportunities to participate in structured internships in Washington, DC, or Austin, TX, to gain experience in the world of politics and policymaking and explore potential career paths. Students may also have opportunities to participate in faculty research projects and to conduct their own research with support from the Office of Undergraduate Education or the Office of Research and Innovation. The UTD Office of Sustainability serves as a focal point on campus for student engagement and sponsors numerous events and opportunities.

[1] Brundtland, G.H. (1987) Our Common Future: Report of the World Commission on Environment and Development. Geneva, UN-Dokument A/42/427.

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