Sustainable systems science (S3)
What is sustainable systems science (S3)?
The Sustainable Systems Science major prepares students to integrate sustainability principles with engineering, business, and environmental science to create data-driven solutions for industries, governments, and research institutions. Graduates gain expertise in life cycle assessment, material flow analysis, and sustainable design, positioning them for high-demand careers in sustainability consulting, industrial ecology, and environmental analysis.
Learn more about this major and the Department of Sustainble Biomaterials.
What will I learn in this major?
This major goes beyond theory — students develop critical skills to:
- Analyze sustainability data and make science-driven recommendations.
- Design environmentally responsible products, systems, and supply chains.
- Quantify environmental impacts using cutting-edge tools like Life Cycle Assessment and Material Flow Analysis.
- Integrate technology, business, and ecological principles to create sustainable solutions.
Using a unique approach to biological systems analysis
03:30
A Future-Forward Approach to Sustainability and Innovation
Why choose sustainable systems science?
The Sustainable Systems Science major equips students with the skills to drive real-world sustainability solutions in industries, government, and research. This program blends engineering, business, environmental science, and data analytics to tackle today’s most pressing environmental and economic challenges.
- First-of-Its-Kind in the Region — Be part of an innovative program leading the way in sustainability education.
- High-Demand Careers — Gain skills that align with fast-growing job markets in sustainability, industrial ecology, and environmental science.
- Real-World Impact — Learn how to reduce environmental footprints, improve industrial efficiency, and create sustainable systems for the future.
What can I do with a degree in sustainable systems science?
Graduates in sustainable systems science may enter the job market or pursue a graduate degree in the field. Career possibilities are listed below, and potential employers include Environmental Resources Management (ERM), Patagonia, Unilever, Interface Inc., Google (Alphabet), Tesla.
- Sustainability consultant — Helps organizations, businesses, or governments develop and implement strategies to reduce negative environmental impacts, improve energy efficiency, and promote sustainable practices across operations.
- Environmental analyst — Studies and interprets data related to the environment to help communities, organizations, or governments make informed decisions about projects, environmental policies, and practices.
- Energy and sustainability manager — Oversees and improves an organization’s energy use and sustainability performance to help reduce costs, meet regulatory requirements, and achieve sustainability goals.
- Sustainable systems analyst — Evaluates and designs systems — such as manufacturing, energy, transportation, or agriculture — with the goal of making them more sustainable.
- Life cycle assessment (LCA) specialist — Evaluates the environmental impacts of a product, process, or service throughout its entire life cycle — from raw material extraction to disposal or recycling. This method is often called a "cradle-to-grave" analysis.
- Research scientist in sustainable solutions — Conducts scientific research to develop and improve materials, technologies, and systems that promote environmental sustainability.
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