The field of sustainability invites us to examine the world we live in and imagine the possibilities for a brighter future. Find solutions to some of the world's most pressing challenges through the Department of Sustainability & Environment.
Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
What kind of world do we want? How can we effect change to create that world?
These are the questions motivating our sustainability students, educators and scholars. As one of them, you'll be part of lessons, research and opportunities that challenge you to find answers.
At USD, our faculty draw from their expertise and ongoing research to help students think creatively about environmental and social challenges - and how to solve them. Our students learn firsthand to ask questions, diligently seek answers and communicate findings effectively with people from diverse backgrounds. Then, take action on campus, in the Vermillion community or along the Missouri River. Through hands-on coursework and engaging experiences, our department prepares students for careers in conservation, government, policy, education, business and more.
Researchers at the University of South Dakota are using satellite data and machine learning technology to monitor climate-smart agriculture practices in South Dakota.
Allison Gross, B.A.’24, spent a semester studying in Ireland as an undergraduate student, recently completed an internship at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Washington, D.C. and will start a graduate program in public affairs at Indiana University in the fall. These wide-ranging activities serve one goal – to make a difference in the Rushmore State.
The University of South Dakota is part of a project, funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation, to develop and assess modern controlled environment agricultural (CEA) practices to increase food security in tribal communities.
Angel Vazquez, a rising junior at the University of South Dakota pursuing a bachelor's degree in anthropology and sustainability, was recently selected for the Minnesota Historical Society’s Native American Undergraduate Museum Fellowship (NAUMF).
The Chiesman Center for Democracy promotes and supports democratic principles and active civic engagement.
At the W.O. Farber Center for Civic Leadership, we prepare students for a lifetime of leadership as citizens of the community, state, nation and world.
The Government Research Bureau, established in 1939, has a distinguished history of conducting applied research on public policy and administrative issues affecting the State of South Dakota, local governments and American Indian Reservations and nonprofits. Technical expertise and modern and innovative analysis tools are used to assist state and local government officials in the areas of economic development and policy formation.
Located along the free-flowing Missouri National Recreational River, the Missouri River Institute explores the natural and cultural resources of the river through its focus on research, education and outreach.
Established in honor of Keith Nolop, M.D., a 1975 USD biology graduate, the Nolop Institute for Medical Biology enhances the experience of outstanding undergraduate students majoring in medical biology at USD.
Join an exciting, rapidly growing field and prepare to make a difference in the world.
Personalize your education at the only university in the region to offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in sustainability.
Help coordinate events that make our campus and surrounding communities a better place.
Find inspiration and expand your perspective by taking your education abroad.
The small feel of the university paired with a small group of people in the sustainability program made my time at USD feel comfortable and meaningful. My graduate assistant (GA) position as the 'campus recycling coordinator' provided me professional development opportunities with real-world experience, leadership of a team, logistics and so much more.
Abigail Willis
M.S. Sustainability '20
Energy Auditor, Green Iowa Americorps
Dewitt, Iowa
