Program Overview
Climate Studies
Understand one of the defining challenges of our time through an interdisciplinary minor that connects science, policy, economics, and human behavior.
Interdisciplinary by Design
Connect environmental science with public policy, economics, psychology, communication, and the humanities.
Real-World Perspective
Study climate challenges through scientific research, public policy, and the human dimensions of environmental change.
Built for Any Major
Strengthen majors across the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities with a climate-focused perspective.
Explore climate change from every angle.
Climate Studies is designed as an interdisciplinary minor that complements many academic programs across campus.
Students might examine:
- The science behind Earth's changing climate.
- Environmental policy and climate governance.
- Economic impacts and market-based climate solutions.
- Human behavior and environmental decision-making.
- Climate communication and public engagement.
- Community resilience and environmental justice.
Rather than approaching climate change from a single discipline, students learn to integrate scientific evidence with social, political, and economic perspectives to better understand complex global challenges.
Customize the minor to your interests.
The Climate Studies minor is intentionally flexible, allowing students to connect climate issues with their primary field of study.
For example:
- Psychology students explore environmental behavior and the mental health impacts of climate change.
- Political Science students examine environmental governance and climate policy.
- Economics students study carbon pricing, sustainability, and economic responses to climate change.
- Environmental Studies and Earth Sciences students deepen their understanding of climate science and environmental systems.
- Urban Studies, English, and other humanities disciplines explore climate resilience, communication, storytelling, and community impacts.
Because the program draws courses from multiple departments, students build an interdisciplinary perspective that reflects the complexity of today's environmental challenges.
Ready to Help Shape a More Sustainable Future?
Whether you hope to influence environmental policy, conduct scientific research, lead sustainability initiatives, or bring climate knowledge into another profession, the Climate Studies minor will help you understand the challenges and contribute to meaningful solutions.
Career Opportunities
A Climate Studies minor complements careers in many fields.
Graduates also strengthen applications for graduate study in environmental science, public policy, law, public administration, economics, and related fields.
Fields it complements:
Environmental policy
Sustainability
Conservation
Government
Urban planning
Public health
Environmental consulting
Corporate sustainability
Climate communication
Education
Research
Nonprofit leadership
Matthew Mariola
Professor of Environmental Studies
mmariola@wooster.edu
Gregory C. Wiles
Shoolroy Chair of Natural Resources; Professor of Earth Sciences
gwiles@wooster.edu
Susan Clayton
Whitmore-Williams Professor of Psychology
sclayton@wooster.edu
Marlo Starr
Assistant Professor of English
mstarr@wooster.edu
Erum Haider
Assistant Professor of Political Science; Environmental Studies; South Asian Studies
ehaider@wooster.edu
Connect With the Department
| Interested in Climate Studies? We'd love to help you learn more about licensure pathways, classroom experiences, faculty mentorship, and career opportunities. |