This is an interdisciplinary major under the authority of the vice chancellor for academic affairs and dean. The program is administered by the environmental studies program coordinator. The environmental studies major is designed to serve those interested in a broad knowledge of the natural environment and the role of humans in it. Students acquire a foundation of knowledge in economics, policy, science, humanities, and statistics. Carefully chosen electives, a required practical internship or research experience, and a capstone seminar provide depth of experience and help students prepare for graduate and professional programs, as well as for careers in education, government service, and the private sector.

Requirements for the major include successful completion of two elements: Element 1: The Environmental Studies Core Element 2: The Environmental Studies Elective Block Selection of electives must be intentional and done in close consultation with an environmental studies adviser. Students must submit an elective plan (preferably by the end of sophomore year), to be approved by the environmental studies program coordinator. Elective plans must be designed to ensure that there is sufficient depth of coverage in the chosen ENST electives. For many students, a second major (or minor) in a closely related discipline is desirable. Electives often can be selected in such a way that they also count toward the second major. Elective courses, other than those listed below, may be appropriate to add depth and provide more theoretical context for the environmentally focused coursework. Approval of alternative electives requires written consent of the course instructor and the program coordinator. No grades below C- are allowed. Courses may not be taken S-N, unless offered S-N only. A minimum GPA of 2.00 is required in the major to graduate. The GPA includes all, and only, University of Minnesota coursework. Grades of "F" are included in GPA calculation until they are replaced.