Welcome!
The Humboldt State University graduate program in Environment and Community is a full time two-year Master of Arts (M.A.) in Social Science. The interdisciplinary faculty, diverse research opportunities, and natural environment offer unique opportunities for students in this academically rigorous program. The program curriculum encompasses three thematic areas that include Ecological Dimensions, Economic and Political Dimensions, and Socio-Cultural Dimensions: Race, Class, Gender and Place.
Program Mission
The mission of the Environment and Community program is to prepare students to understand the relationship between communities and their environment, to analyze environment-community issues at different scales, and to act effectively in situations where values and interests conflict.
Faculty lead small classes and seminars in a wide variety of disciplines, including Sociology, Environmental Science, Anthropology, Political Science, Geography, Environmental Engineering, Social Work, Communication, Native American Studies, and Ethnic Studies. Students have the opportunity to participate in hands-on applied socio-environmental research through a variety of university research centers and institutes.
Environment and Community - A Unique Program
Students in the Environment and Community Master of Arts in Social Science Program at Humboldt State University engage in a dialogue between academic analysis and social change. Students in the program gain:
- Skills to analyze the environmental consequences of economic and political structures and decisions
- Tools to address issues of race, class, and gender in environment-community relationships
- An understanding of community, place, and sense of place
- Knowledge and experience of diverse approaches to social science research and action
- Insight from case studies that offer a problem-oriented approach to learning
- Preparation for careers in teaching, government, community and environmental organizations
- An ethic of service and civic engagement
Where is Humboldt State University?
Humboldt State University is 270 miles north of San Francisco. It is located next to the Pacific Ocean and among the majestic redwood groves and diverse working landscapes of the North Coast. The unique natural and social characteristics of California’s redwood region enable students to explore firsthand the vital links between community well-being and the natural environment. Click here to see a map of Humboldt on Google Maps.
"If anyone is going to study environment and community, Humboldt County is the place to be. There are so many examples of how the community and environment have met, clashed, and sometimes even resolved the complex issues facing them. Geographically, there isn't a more beautiful place in the world. Mountains, oceans, dunes, giant trees, and beautiful farms all within easy biking distance. Where else can you find all that?"
Carrie Gergits, Program Graduate, 2003
For a detailed summary of policies, procedures, and opportunities, read over our program handbook. This eight page document can be viewed and printed. Download PDF