URI Unveils New Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Arts and Humanities

University of Rhode Island Launches New Environmental Arts and Humanities Degree

Kingston, R.I. – October 29, 2025 – The University of Rhode Island is responding to a growing demand for skilled communicators and critical thinkers in the environmental sector by launching a new Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Arts and Humanities.

Addressing the Communication Gap in Environmental Science

The 33-credit program is designed to bridge the gap between complex scientific findings and public understanding. It will provide students with a comprehensive toolkit for addressing pressing environmental issues such as Climate Change, Environmental Justice and a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between society and the natural world. The University intends to equip its students with a more holistic understanding of these issues.

According to William Krieger, Chair of the URI Philosophy Department, the ability to effectively communicate scientific facts is paramount. “Science can often be challenging to convey to the public,” Krieger explained. “Individuals who can translate complex data into accessible language will be instrumental in fostering greater public engagement and informed decision-making.”

A Student-Driven Initiative with Industry relevance

The creation of the Environmental Arts and Humanities program was largely student-driven, reflecting a growing awareness of the need for interdisciplinary approaches to environmental challenges. However, Krieger also noted that employers across various sectors are increasingly seeking candidates with strong humanities skills.

the program emphasizes a broader perspective,encouraging students to explore environmental issues through the lenses of communication,history,and culture. This approach will enable graduates to collaborate with international organizations and incorporate diverse viewpoints, including Indigenous knowledge systems.

Beyond a Western-Centric View of the Environment

A core tenet of the program is challenging traditional Western perspectives on the environment. “The idea that the environment is merely a resource to be exploited represents only one way of viewing our relationship with the natural world,” Krieger stated. “Many Indigenous and non-Western cultures view humanity as an integral part of the environment, fostering a more harmonious and enduring coexistence.”

Combating Misinformation and Leveraging Artificial Intelligence

Graduates of the program will be well-equipped to navigate the challenges of misinformation surrounding environmental issues. They will be trained to critically analyze data, identify biases, and effectively communicate accurate information. Moreover, the program will prepare students to leverage artificial intelligence as a tool for research and communication, rather than being controlled by it.

“While tools like ChatGPT can generate text quickly, they may lack the nuance and contextual understanding necesary to address complex environmental issues effectively,” krieger cautioned.”Graduates of this program will be able to use AI responsibly as an editing tool and advocate for sound scientific principles in grant funding and policy decisions.”

Program Details and availability

The Environmental Arts and Humanities B.A. program will offer in-person courses. A new foundational course is scheduled to launch this Spring, providing students with an early possibility to begin their studies.

Program Feature	Description
Total Credits	33
Core Focus	Environmental communication, history, and culture
Key skills	Critical thinking, data analysis, cross-cultural understanding, and AI literacy
Career Paths	Sea Grant extension, grant writing, technical communication, environmental advocacy

Did You Know? A recent report by the World Economic Forum identified misinformation as one of the biggest threats to global environmental action.

Pro Tip: Develop strong storytelling skills to connect with audiences on an emotional level and inspire positive change.

Are you concerned about the role of misinformation in the climate debate? How can education help bridge the gap between scientific understanding and public perception of environmental issues?

The Growing Importance of Environmental Humanities

The field of Environmental Humanities has experienced meaningful growth in recent years, reflecting a broader recognition of the need for interdisciplinary approaches to environmental challenges. According to a 2023 study by the National Endowment for the Humanities, funding for Environmental Humanities projects increased by 15% in the past five years, signaling a growing investment in this area.

This growth is driven by the understanding that effective environmental solutions require not only scientific expertise but also a deep understanding of human values, cultural contexts, and ethical considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

• what is Environmental Humanities? Environmental Humanities explore the relationship between humans and the environment through the lenses of the humanities, like literature, philosophy, and history.
• Why is effective environmental communication important? Effective communication is crucial for informing the public, influencing policy, and promoting sustainable practices.
• How does this program address misinformation? The program equips students with critical thinking and analytical skills to identify and combat environmental misinformation.
• What career opportunities are available with this degree? Graduates can pursue careers in environmental advocacy,journalism,grant writing,and various communication roles.
• Will this program be offered online? Currently,the program is designed to be offered in-person.
• What is the role of Indigenous knowledge in this program? The curriculum integrates Indigenous perspectives to provide a more holistic and culturally sensitive understanding of environmental issues.
• How can AI be used ethically in environmental work? students learn to use AI as a tool for research and communication while remaining critical of its potential biases and limitations.

Share your thoughts on the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to environmental issues in the comments below!

What specific skills will students develop to effectively communicate complex environmental issues to diverse audiences, as mentioned in the Climate Change Interaction module?

Bridging Disciplines for a Sustainable Future

the University of Rhode island (URI) is launching a groundbreaking Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Environmental Arts and Humanities, beginning Fall 2026. This interdisciplinary program responds to the growing demand for professionals who can navigate the complex intersection of environmental challenges and human culture. It’s a unique offering designed to cultivate critical thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and effective communicators equipped to address pressing global issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental justice.The program emphasizes sustainability, environmental studies, and the power of the humanities to shape a more equitable and sustainable world.

What You’ll Study: A Curriculum Overview

The Environmental Arts and Humanities BA isn’t just about science; it’s about understanding how we understand the habitat. The curriculum is structured around core themes and allows for significant student specialization.

Here’s a breakdown of key components:

* Core Courses: Foundational coursework in environmental science, history, literature, philosophy, and visual/performing arts. Expect courses like “Introduction to Environmental Science,” “Environmental History of North America,” and “Ecological Literature.”

* Interdisciplinary Modules: Focused explorations of specific environmental issues through multiple lenses. Examples include:

* Environmental Justice: Examining the disproportionate impact of environmental hazards on marginalized communities.

* Climate Change Communication: Learning to effectively convey the urgency and complexity of climate change to diverse audiences.

* Sustainable Design: Exploring principles of eco-pleasant design in architecture, landscape architecture, and product development.

* Concentration Options: Students will choose a concentration to deepen thier expertise. Potential options include:

* Environmental Writing & Journalism: Focusing on storytelling, reporting, and advocacy related to environmental issues.

* Environmental Performance & Activism: Utilizing artistic expression as a tool for social and environmental change.

* Environmental History & Policy: Analyzing the historical roots of environmental problems and developing policy solutions.

* Digital Environmental Humanities: Leveraging digital tools and technologies for environmental research and communication.

* Experiential learning: A significant component of the program involves hands-on learning through internships, research projects, and community engagement.

Career paths: where This Degree Can Take You

Graduates with a BA in Environmental Arts and Humanities will be well-prepared for a diverse range of careers. The program’s emphasis on both analytical skills and creative expression makes graduates highly adaptable and valuable in a rapidly evolving job market.

Consider these potential career paths:

1. Environmental Communication Specialist: Crafting compelling narratives for environmental organizations,government agencies,or media outlets.(Keywords: environmental communication, sustainability communication, public relations)
2. Sustainability Manager: Developing and implementing sustainability initiatives for businesses and organizations. (Keywords: corporate sustainability, ESG, environmental management)
3. Environmental Educator: Inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards through teaching and outreach programs. (Keywords: environmental education, outdoor education, conservation education)
4. Policy Analyst: Researching and analyzing environmental policies, and advocating for effective solutions. (Keywords: environmental policy, advocacy, government relations)
5. Museum Curator/Archivist (Environmental Focus): Preserving and interpreting cultural and natural heritage related to the environment. (Keywords: museum studies, archival science, cultural heritage)
6. Environmental Journalist: Reporting on environmental issues for newspapers, magazines, websites, and broadcast media. (Keywords: environmental journalism, investigative reporting, science writing)

The Growing Demand for Interdisciplinary Environmental Professionals

The job market is increasingly recognizing the need for professionals who can bridge the gap between scientific understanding and human values. Traditional environmental science degrees often lack the communication and critical thinking skills necessary to effectively address complex environmental challenges.

* Bureau of Labor Statistics projections indicate strong growth in environmental science and specialist occupations in the coming years.

* Corporate social Duty (CSR) initiatives are driving demand for sustainability professionals across all industries.

* The rise of environmental activism and public awareness is creating opportunities for communicators and advocates.

URI’s Unique Approach: A Focus on Place-Based Learning

URI’s location in Rhode Island provides a unique opportunity for place-based learning. The state’s diverse ecosystems – from Narragansett Bay to its coastal forests – offer a living laboratory for students to study environmental issues firsthand.

The program will leverage URI’s existing strengths in marine science, environmental engineering, and the humanities to provide a truly interdisciplinary experiance. Students will have opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers and practitioners in the field. Furthermore, URI’s commitment to community engagement will allow students to apply their knowledge to real-world problems in local communities.

Funding and Application Facts

Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available to qualified students. The application deadline for Fall 2026 admission is February 15, 2026.

* Tuition and fees: Information can be found on the URI