Sustainability Studies.
Data details: Graduation rate, gender, ethnicity, and summary are for this specific degree (6-digit CIP) from IPEDS. Salary, debt, and related financial outcomes are based on the degree category (4-digit CIP) from the College Scorecard API. ← Back to search
All data shown below (except Graduation rate, gender, ethnicity) is based on the category, not just this specific degree.
Please use your own discretion when interpreting these results. For certain degrees, a limited number of institutions report to the government's College Scorecard API, which may cause the data to be skewed or less representative of national trends. Consider these figures as informative but not definitive, and consult additional sources or advisors for important decisions.
Debt to Income Ratio
Why Sustainability Studies. stands out: With a debt-to-income ratio of just 49.1%, graduates of this program typically enjoy manageable student loan payments compared to their first-year earnings. This low ratio means that, on average, students who complete Sustainability Studies. can expect to pay off their student debt faster and with less financial stress than most other fields. Programs with a DTI below 0.5 are considered excellent by financial experts, making this degree a smart investment for your future.
For example, with a median salary of $42826 and average student debt of $21042, the financial outlook for Sustainability Studies. graduates is especially strong in .
Key Insights
Sustainability Studies. is a program that attracts motivated students who want to make an impact. Starting pay for new grads is typically $42826, and with an average debt of $21042, the debt-to-income ratio comes in at 0.49—meaning you’ll have lots of flexibility after graduation.
This program sees about 4382 graduates annually, so you’ll be joining a well-established network. Whether you’re aiming for a high-paying job, a stable career, or a chance to make an impact, Sustainability Studies. is a great foundation. Remember, your journey is shaped by the opportunities you pursue—so get involved and stay curious!
Degree Overview
Sustainability Studies (CIP 30.3301) is an interdisciplinary field focused on creating systems that meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It examines how environmental, economic, and social systems interact, and how those systems can be redesigned to be more resilient, equitable, and environmentally responsible. This degree is designed for students who want to address complex global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, food security, energy transitions, and sustainable development.
For a degree search site, Sustainability Studies appeals to students who want a purpose-driven education with real-world relevance. It is especially suited for individuals interested in environmental protection, green business, urban planning, policy, renewable energy, corporate responsibility, and community development. The field emphasizes systems thinking, applied problem-solving, and long-term impact rather than narrow technical specialization.
What Is a Sustainability Studies Degree?
A Sustainability Studies degree is an interdisciplinary program that integrates environmental science, economics, social science, policy, and ethics to understand and improve the sustainability of human and natural systems. Students study how human activities affect the planet and how societies can transition toward more sustainable models of production, consumption, and governance.
Universities offer Sustainability Studies programs to:
- Prepare professionals to design and implement sustainable solutions
- Train leaders who can balance environmental protection with economic viability
- Support careers in sustainability-focused business, policy, and nonprofits
- Provide a foundation for graduate study in environmental or sustainability-related fields
Programs often include experiential learning, internships, and project-based coursework.
What Will You Learn?
Students learn how environmental, social, and economic systems are interconnected and how decisions in one area can produce wide-ranging impacts. You’ll develop the ability to evaluate tradeoffs, measure sustainability outcomes, and implement practical strategies for change.
Core Skills You’ll Build
Graduates typically develop skills such as:
- Systems thinking—analyzing complex, interconnected systems
- Environmental analysis—understanding ecological impacts and limits
- Sustainability assessment—measuring environmental and social performance
- Policy and regulatory literacy—understanding sustainability-related laws and frameworks
- Project management—planning and implementing sustainability initiatives
- Data analysis and interpretation—working with environmental and social data
- Stakeholder engagement—collaborating across sectors and communities
- Communication skills—advocating for sustainable practices clearly and persuasively
Topics You May Explore
Coursework varies by institution, but commonly includes:
- Environmental Science: ecosystems, climate, and natural resources
- Sustainable Economics: circular economy, cost-benefit analysis, and growth models
- Climate Change and Energy Systems: mitigation, adaptation, and renewable energy
- Sustainable Development: global and local development strategies
- Environmental Policy and Governance: laws, regulations, and international agreements
- Urban and Regional Sustainability: sustainable cities and infrastructure
- Corporate Sustainability and ESG: environmental, social, and governance practices
- Food and Agricultural Sustainability: sustainable food systems and land use
- Sustainability Metrics and Reporting: life-cycle analysis and impact measurement
What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?
A Sustainability Studies degree prepares students for a wide range of roles across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Many graduates pursue additional certifications or graduate education.
Common career paths include:
- Sustainability Coordinator or Analyst: managing sustainability programs
- Environmental or Climate Policy Assistant: supporting policy development
- Corporate Sustainability or ESG Specialist: guiding responsible business practices
- Environmental Consultant: advising organizations on sustainability strategies
- Urban or Community Sustainability Planner: supporting sustainable development initiatives
- Renewable Energy or Climate Program Assistant: supporting clean energy projects
- Nonprofit or NGO Associate: advancing sustainability and conservation goals
- Graduate or Professional School Path: preparing for advanced environmental careers
Where Can You Work?
Graduates work in organizations focused on sustainability and impact:
- Government agencies (environment, energy, planning)
- Corporations and businesses (ESG, sustainability, operations)
- Environmental and sustainability nonprofits
- Consulting firms
- Urban planning and development organizations
- Renewable energy companies
- Research institutes and think tanks
How Much Can You Earn?
Earnings vary by role, sector, and experience.
Typical ranges include:
- Entry-level sustainability roles: often $45,000–$60,000
- Sustainability analysts or coordinators: commonly $60,000–$90,000
- Corporate ESG or consulting roles: often $80,000–$120,000+
Specialized skills, certifications, or graduate education can increase earning potential.
Is This Degree Hard?
Sustainability Studies is considered moderately challenging. It is less technical than engineering but requires strong analytical thinking, data interpretation, and the ability to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines. Students must be comfortable dealing with tradeoffs and complex, real-world constraints.
The challenge lies in applying theory to practical, scalable solutions.
Who Should Consider This Degree?
This degree may be a strong fit if you:
- Care deeply about environmental and social issues
- Enjoy interdisciplinary learning and systems thinking
- Want a career with positive social and environmental impact
- Are interested in policy, business, or community solutions
- Prefer applied problem-solving over narrow specialization
How to Prepare in High School
To prepare for a sustainability studies program:
- Take environmental science, biology, and social studies courses
- Build strong math and data literacy skills
- Participate in environmental clubs or sustainability projects
- Practice research, writing, and presentation skills
- Stay informed about climate, energy, and sustainability issues
Sustainability Studies (CIP 30.3301) is a future-critical degree for students who want to help shape a more resilient and equitable world. It prepares graduates to understand complex systems, make informed decisions, and lead sustainability efforts across industries, governments, and communities.
Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor