Prepare for a career in sustainability with a cross-disciplinary pre-major. Students will learn to understand and implement environmental and sustainability initiatives across the public and private sectors. After earning their Associate of Arts from GRCC, students will transfer into a bachelor’s degree program in Environmental and Sustainability Studies at Grand Valley State University (GVSU).
Courses will cover a variety of subjects and prepare students to address the world’s growing environmental problems through research and problem-solving. Please plan to work with a GRCC Academic Advisor to ensure that your credits transfer seamlessly to GVSU.
Why Start Your Degree at GRCC?
- Save money by earning your associate degree at GRCC before transferring to GVSU as a junior.
- GRCC offers scholarship opportunities for students who plan to study physical sciences.
- Small class sizes allow more communication and mentoring with you and your professors.
- You’ll work in state-of-the-art labs and learn from faculty with advanced degrees in their field.
- Transfer students report being just as prepared to continue their coursework at a four-year institution than students who attended that college or university their freshman and sophomore years.
- Our flexible class schedules and support programs are designed around your busy life.
Pre-Environmental and Sustainability Studies Degree Tuition Calculator
GRCC is an affordable option for anyone seeking to start their environmental and sustainability studies. Our tuition calculator can help you estimate the cost of earning your associate degree. You may also be eligible for financial aid and other scholarships, so be sure to schedule an admissions appointment if you have questions about your options to pay for college.
Please note that this calculator does not include additional student costs like books or parking. These costs are an estimate only and do not constitute a contract or binding agreement of costs to attend Grand Rapids Community College.
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Physical Science Success Stories
Yasmina Zimmer
“I spent the spring and part of the summer of 2024 in Denali National Park working as a natural research assistant. GRCC gave me the skills to take advantage of these opportunities, and many more to come.”
Paul Kuchnicki
“I don’t think I will be famous, but I’m doing something I love. If you’re not sure what to do with your life, think like a kid again!”
Frequently Asked Questions About Pre-Environmental and Sustainability Studies
Still have questions about this program? Read through our frequently asked questions below or reach out to the Physical Sciences Department directly at physicalscience@grcc.edu or (616) 234-4248.
How long does it take to get an environmental and sustainability studies degree?
Most students complete their associate degree in two years. How quickly you finish your degree will depend on how many classes you decide to take per semester. Since this program requires at least 60 credits, you’ll need to take around 15 credits per semester to graduate in two years.
After earning your associate degree from GRCC, you will transfer to GVSU to complete a bachelor’s degree in environmental and sustainability studies.
We know that life doesn’t stop while you pursue your education, which is why GRCC offers support services like free tutoring, walk-in counseling, laptop loans, childcare resources, food assistance and more. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
How much does an environmental and sustainability studies degree cost?
Use the tuition calculator to estimate the cost of earning your Pre-Environmental and Sustainability Studies, A.A. Please note that this does not include costs like books and transportation, and is not an official estimate.
Additionally, many students qualify for scholarships and financial aid like Michigan Reconnect or the Michigan Community College Guarantee, which can significantly reduce tuition.
Please schedule an admissions appointment if you have questions about how to pay for college.
What is the transfer process to Grand Valley State University like?
Courses in this program align with all GVSU requirements. However, we recommend contacting GVSU to obtain additional information about transfer requirements, as GVSU will make the ultimate decision on how each course will be used to meet the bachelor’s degree requirements.
GRCC advisors and faculty are available to help students navigate transfer resources and create an individualized transfer plan, including the selection of elective courses, that meet all GRCC and GVSU requirements. Please schedule an admissions appointment if you have additional questions about the transfer process.
What can I do with a degree in environmental and sustainability studies?
A degree in environmental science opens doors to jobs in conservation, sustainability, environmental research and more. Graduates may work for businesses, non-profits, municipalities and trade organizations as a full-time sustainability professional or in a position with other job responsibilities. Common career paths include:
- Air and water quality management
- Alternative and renewable energy
- Environmental education and communication
- Environmental law
- Planning and conservation
- Sustainable agriculture
- Waste management
Is a degree in environmental and sustainability studies worth it?
Yes! With your degree, you’ll be ready to explore the impact of human interaction on the environment and create solutions that address contemporary environmental issues. This career field continues to grow as more employers recognize the need for sustainability measures. Whether you focus on environmental law and policy or community sustainability and revitalization, you’ll be using your skills to make the world a better place.
Additional Information
Want to learn more about this area of study?
Visit the Department of Physical Sciences
Questions about this program?
Department email: physicalscience@grcc.edu
Department phone: (616) 234-4248
