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B.A. (Hons) Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development

B.A. (Hons.) Environment and Sustainable Development

FOUR YEARS PROGRAMME

About The Programme

The B.A. (Hons.) Environment and Sustainable Development programme offered by the Jindal School of Environment & Sustainability (JSES) is an exciting and challenging discipline that opens the pathway for working in international and national arenas. The importance of environmental studies has grown exponentially in recent years, and is set to become even more significant in the future. This is because businesses, governments, inter-governmental bodies, and organisations in India and worldwide are seeking ways to become more sustainable, energy efficient, and climate-appropriate, and require experts in this field.

What are Environmental Studies?

Environmental studies is an interdisciplinary field that explores the interactions between humans and nature. It covers various topics, such as ecology, biodiversity, climate change, pollution, conservation, and sustainability. Environmental studies also examines the social, economic, and political aspects of environmental issues, and how they affect human well-being and justice.

If you are interested in environmental studies, you can pursue a BA in environmental studies degree that provides a comprehensive and holistic education in this field.

What is the Scope of this Course?

A BA in Environmental Studies Course is a great choice for anyone who wants to learn about the natural world and its challenges, and how to protect and improve it. By studying this course, you will gain a broad and interdisciplinary perspective on environmental issues, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, conservation, and sustainability. You will also develop critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and research skills that are essential for any career.

Benefits of the Course

A BA in Environmental Studies Course can open up many opportunities for you in various sectors, such as government, non-governmental organizations, academia, industry, and media. You can work as an environmental scientist, environmental engineer, environmental consultant, environmental educator, environmental journalist, environmental lawyer, environmental planner, environmental activist, or environmental manager. You can also pursue higher studies or research in environmental studies or related fields.

What Makes It Different at JGU

The B.A. (Hons.) Environment and Sustainable Development programme at JSES is designed to prepare students for a challenging, complex, and exciting discipline that is rapidly gaining importance in the present day. The programme offers students an opportunity to gain knowledge of key areas in sustainable development and the sustainable management of natural resources. Students will receive interdisciplinary education and learn how to connect perspectives from several key disciplines, equipping them with the skills needed to address the challenges of environmental protection and sustainable development.

At JSES, the curriculum is designed with a global perspective and taught by internationally trained faculty with a research-oriented approach. Students will have the opportunity to write a research thesis under faculty supervision, gaining a solid foundation to pursue higher studies or research.
The programme offers students the opportunity to gain knowledge of key areas in sustainable development and the sustainable management of natural resources. The programme is taught by internationally trained research-oriented faculty with a global perspective, and students will have the opportunity to write a research thesis under faculty supervision.

The eligibility requirement for the B.A. (Hons.) Environment and Sustainable Development programme at Jindal School of Environment and Sustainability is a passing score in the 10+2 level of schooling or its equivalent. Candidates from all academic backgrounds are welcome to apply.

The admission process for the programme is based on a holistic approach, which includes a personal statement, supplemental question, Class X and XII marks, faculty interview, and a JSAT/SAT/ACT score. The selection is conducted over three rounds to ensure each application is evaluated in its unique context.

The B.A. (Hons.) Environment and Sustainable Development programme at Jindal School of Environment and Sustainability provides a well-rounded education that prepares students for an ever-growing job sector. With a wide range of courses available, students can expect to receive an interdisciplinary education that equips them with the knowledge and skills to address challenges related to environmental protection and sustainable development. The programme is designed to cater to the present and future demands of the industry, with a focus on providing students with practical knowledge and real-world experience.

The curriculum of the programme is divided into six semesters over three years. In the first year, students are introduced to foundational courses that cover key areas such as climate change, ecology, environmental law and governance, sociological perspectives on environment, wildlife and forestry, academic writing and interdisciplinary studies, environmental ethics, ecological economics, global environmental pollution and health, environmental impact assessment, energy and environment, and a school elective. The second year focuses on more advanced courses such as sustainable development, water science and policy, urban sustainability, marine ecology, environmental hazards and disaster resilience, post-capitalism and climate change, ecosystem restoration and conservation ecology, environment, technology and society, environmental policy and sustainability management, research methods and strategies for natural resource management, and an elective course.

In the third and final year, students have the opportunity to pursue elective courses from all 12 schools of the University. They can also opt for a semester abroad, which is optional. In addition, students are required to complete a credit-bearing internship and a final-year thesis. The internship provides students with practical experience and the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a professional setting. The thesis work is allocated 8 credits and is a mandatory requirement of the programme. Students are required to choose a research topic based on their area of interest and define their own research questions, and the thesis work typically begins in the fifth semester and concludes in the final semester.

The B.A. (Hons.) Environment and Sustainable Development programme offers a range of elective courses across all 12 schools of Jindal Global University. These interdisciplinary electives cover topics such as law, humanities, management, business and finance, international affairs, governance and public policy, environment, architecture, and more. Completing these electives successfully will earn credits based on the number of instructional hours.

The elective courses are indicative and change every semester, giving students the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics. The programme provides a well-rounded education that equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to work in the field of sustainable development and conservation. With a focus on sustainable management of natural resources, environmental policy, law, and social sciences, students are prepared for a diverse range of career opportunities.

Some of the indicative electives available for B.A. (Hons.) Environment and Sustainable Development students include Applied Econometrics, Brand Management, Emerging Technology: Impacts on Policy, Law & Business, Happiness at Workplace, Law & Practice in United Nation, Negotiation, Mediation and Arbitration, and more. The electives offer a diverse range of topics, and students can choose the ones that interest them the most. These courses provide students with the opportunity to earn additional credits and enhance their skills and knowledge in their areas of interest.

Jindal School of Environment and Sustainability (JSES) has established partnerships with 20 renowned organizations to provide students enrolled in the B.A. (Hons.) Environment and Sustainable Development programme with research and internship opportunities. These collaborations provide JSES students with internships, which enable them to broaden their understanding of environmental and sustainability issues. Graduates of JSES will have ample opportunities for a diverse range of careers at national, international, regional, state, and local government institutions and agencies, NGOs, and private organizations. The private sector also requires expertise in developing projects that need environmental impact assessments.

The partnerships include collaborations with organizations such as World Wildlife Fund, Pacific Environment, World Resources Institute, MC Mehta Foundation, Environment Support Group, Global Policy Insights, Toxics Links, Tagore Society for Rural Development, Navdanya Foundation, Indian Council for Enviro-Legal Action, Delhi Greens, Envipol, Green Munia, Dhiway-Research, Uneako Centre for Science & Environment, Rajputana Society of Natural History, Future Group-CSR, Hyundai Electric, Directorate of Environment & Climate Change, and Initiative for Climate Action.

These partnerships will equip JSES students with the essential knowledge and skills to excel in various roles in environmental governance, sustainable development, and conservation. The collaboration with such prestigious organizations indicates the quality of education and opportunities offered by JSES. Graduates from this programme will have the capability to contribute to the global effort towards a sustainable future.

The B.A. (Hons.) Environment and Sustainable Development programme offers a vast array of opportunities for those who seek to become leaders in the field of sustainable development. Graduates can pursue career opportunities in various government ministries and departments as experts in sustainable development and conservation. With a deep understanding of the three pillars of sustainable development – environment, social, and economic – the degree equips students to work in governance and administration.

Inter-governmental bodies, think tanks, research bodies, and non-governmental organizations also play a crucial role in the field of sustainable development. Graduates can aspire to be part of organizations such as the United Nations Environmental Program, United Nations Development Program, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF), and others. A multi-disciplinary specialization in Environmental Studies is a valuable asset in the corporate sector, where industries around the world seek advice on corporate social responsibility, sustainability, and environmentally sound policies.

The B.A. (Hons.) Environment and Sustainable Development programme also equips graduates with the skills to pursue careers in research, innovation, and conservation. Graduates can work in the field of environmental science and conservation, providing data and inputs that are the backbone of policy and governance at the national, regional, and international levels. Those who enjoy spending time in nature and have a passion for writing and journalism can become nature journalists, bringing to the forefront stories of nature and environmental concerns.

The demand for graduates with a specialization in Environmental Studies is set to increase rapidly, making them sought-after professionals at the international and national levels. Graduates can diversify into various sub-areas, such as climate, energy, wildlife and forests, sustainable development, and conservation, making the career opportunities limitless.

FAQ's

1. What is the admission process for the B.A. (Hons.) Environment and Sustainable Development program at JSES?

The admission process for the B.A. (Hons.) Environment and Sustainable Development program at JSES is based on a holistic approach, which includes a personal statement, supplemental question, Class X and XII marks, faculty interview, and a JSAT/SAT/ACT score. The selection is conducted over three rounds to evaluate each application in its unique context.

2. What is the BA environmental studies syllabus at JSES?

The BA environmental studies syllabus at JSES is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the environment and sustainable development. The syllabus includes courses on a wide range of topics, such as climate change, ecology, environmental law and governance, sociological perspectives on the environment, wildlife and forestry, academic writing and interdisciplinary studies, environmental ethics, ecological economics, global environmental pollution and health, environmental impact assessment, energy and environment, and a school elective.

3. What is the BA environmental studies syllabus in India?

India’s BA environmental studies syllabus varies from university to university, but some common core courses are typically included. These courses may include:
Introduction to Environmental Studies
Environmental Chemistry
Environmental Biology
Environmental Economics
Environmental Law
Environmental Policy
Environmental Management

4. What are the basics of environmental studies covered in the BA program at JSES?

The basics of environmental studies covered in the BA program at JSES include:
The environment and its components
Environmental systems and processes
Environmental issues and challenges
Sustainable development
Environmental ethics and values
Environmental policy and governance
Environmental management and mitigation

5. What are the career opportunities for a BA in environmental studies in India?

There are a wide range of career opportunities for a BA in environmental studies in India. Some of the most common career paths include:
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Researcher
Environmental Educator
Environmental Policy Analyst
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Manager
Sustainability Manager
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Specialist