Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies - Sustainability
The Interdisciplinary Studies - Sustainability BA program allows students to harness the cross-disciplinary nature of issues relating to sustainability by taking classes from multiple departments across campus, where classes focus on the interconnectivity of human and natural systems.
About the Degree
Students can earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Sustainability through Interdisciplinary Studies. Through this program, students will develop skills to understand social and environmental implications of sustainability in the context of contemporary local, regional, and global challenges. Students can tailor their program around areas of interest: Sustainable Environmental Policy, Food, Energy and Water (FEW) Systems, From Global Issues to Local Action, Sustainable Island Ecosystems, Environmental Justice, Values and Ethics and Climate Change. This program includes a capstone, which can be completed through an internship or research experience in partnership with local sustainability-focused organizations.
For further information, contact sustain@hawaii.edu. For a full description of requirements, see the Sustainability Program Sheet. To declare the Bachelor of Arts in Sustainability, please fill out the Major Declaration Form.
The BA in Sustainability also supports BA+MA pathways to a Master in Geography and Environment and Master in Urban and Regional Planning.
Student Testimonials
Mehana Kapoi: BA in Sustainability (2025)
"[The program in] Interdisciplinary Sustainability, and taking that leap of faith to apply for this major, has profoundly shaped the trajectory of my life and passions. It has given me the tools to think critically, act with intention, have an open heart and ear to a diverse array of perspectives and voices, and work toward a more just and sustainable future for Hawaiʻi and beyond. I leave this program grounded in purpose and inspired to continue this work in both my community and career."
Capstone Partner
Olivia Taub: BA in Sustainability (2025)
"My Capstone internship at Lyon Arboretum was also immensely impactful as it gave me a new perspective on what it means to conduct research...Studying and documenting olonā fruiting was the particular experience that made me realize I could enjoy doing research. Because olonā is so culturally and environmentally valuable, it gave purpose to the research and made it engaging for me. With this realization, I opened my eyes to the “research” I was doing outside of olonā. Documenting plant growth, pest management practices, and germination at the Magoon greenhouse is an example of research that I had been doing unknowingly. I learned research does not mean “sterile lab setting”, it can take place in a greenhouse and in the field as well. Above all, I learned that I am most motivated to work/learn when I find meaning in the work/learning I do."