What is The Environmental and Technology Studies Concentration?

The Environmental and Technology Studies (ENTS) program brings faculty and students together from a broad range of academic departments and backgrounds to address the scientific, economic, social, political, historical, and aesthetic dimensions of the grave threats posed to natural ecosystems by patterns of human development.

This integrated, multidisciplinary concentration emphasizes

• critical thinking
• communication (including advocacy)
• problem-oriented, collaborative work
• civic engagement
• information literacy
• internships and other work experiences
• off-campus studies programs

Who should consider the ENTS concentration?

The ENTS concentration welcomes students from all majors. ENTS can prepare you for graduate school or a career in environmental science or public policy; prepare you to use your musical, artistic, or literary talents to focus public attention; prepare you to become an informed world citizen.

The flexible ENTS framework helps give focus to your academic and personal pursuits and involves you in a network of people with similar interests.

So what do I need to do?

There is a common set of requirements for all concentrators. The ENTS experience begins with one of three project-based introductory courses: ENTS 110, 120, or 189. Normally, you should take an introductory course in your first two years.

Once you have decided to become a concentrator (at least by the end of your sophomore year), you must meet with the program director or educational associate, who'll help you plan a program suited to your interests and career goals. For more information about specific courses, please see the course descriptions.

Other common courses that all ENTS concentrators are required to take: three terms of Ethics and Values Colloquium (one-credit), preferably in the junior year, and a senior capstone project.

What else goes on in the ENTS concentration?

ENTS brings lecturers, scholars, and environmental professionals to campus to enrich both the concentration and environmental dialogue on campus. ENTS also maintains e-mail lists about relevant events and opportunities and puts out a newsletter periodically. You can also drop by the ENTS lounge (Goodsell Observatory 106) to peruse reading material, look for internships, and meet people.

ENTS maintains ties to the wider environmental community at Carleton in a number of ways. ENTS students and faculty are members of the Environmental Advisory Committee. Other environmental opportunities on campus include becoming involved in The Green Network (a network of organizations and individuals interested in environmental advocacy), and student organizations such as MPIRG (Minnesota Public Interest Research Group) and SOPE (Student Organization for Protection of the Environment). Students may live in special residential houses like Green House and Farm House.

The 800-acre Cowling Arboretum and the McKnight Prairie are significant local ecological resources for course work and personal exploration.

Last modified: 24 January 2003
Contact: athomas@carleton.edu