LIFE IN THE CLASSROOM
A Unique But Perfect Fit :
B . S . Human Ecology at Life University
Life University added a new Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology degree during the Spring Quarter of 2019 that just started enrolling for the Fall Quarter .
Human ecology is an interdisciplinary field that studies the relationship between humans and their economic , social and natural environments . It strives to develop a means by which sustainability could be achieved . This new degree program is an excellent fit with the vitalistic philosophy engrained in all Life University degree programs , as students will recognize that economic , social and natural environments , can thrive without disruptive interferences much like the human body .
The B . S . Human Ecology degree program has two specializations from which students may choose :
People , Politics and Social Change Track This track focuses on serious questions from individuals and businesses whose answers require a complex understanding of interdependent issues . Participants of this track will develop their leadership skills as well as the ability to innovatively evaluate and act on issues related to sustainability , while making sensible business and policy decisions for both the short and long term .
“ One of the things I like the most about that program is that it is so interdisciplinary ,” remarks Dr . Adaris Mas Rivera , a professor in the Human Ecology program at LIFE . “ It focuses on some key issues that need to be addressed in society today regarding social change , sustainability and conservation .”
Dr . Mas Rivera also notes that she finds that students get very engaged and find it quite appealing to merge the different fields of social and natural sciences , and that a prospective student who has a passion for thinking about how systems and constructs in society interact and overlap with each other would be a perfect match for the new degree program at LIFE .
Science , Sustainability and Resource Management Track This track stresses the need to step outside current disciplinary and cultural boxes in pursuit of knowledge regarding the intricate interrelationships between science , technology and human systems . Coursework focuses on interdisciplinary areas relevant to the sustainability of environmental resources and social institutions while encouraging experiential learning , research proficiency , community engagement and leadership development .
Future degree holders will be able to utilize professional knowledge and contemporary scientific techniques to improve the lives of people in society while maintaining environmental quality ; demonstrate standards of ethical conduct , environmental stewardship and responsible citizenship as agents of positive social change ; analyze and interpret scientific data to make informed decisions regarding contemporary social issues ; and explain the dynamic roles of society , culture and psychology within human systems for the purposes of maintenance and sustainable use of natural ecosystems .
Potential careers for a bachelor ’ s degree holder in Human Ecology include : environmental scientists , industrial ecologists , fish / game wardens , climate analysts and many more .
Along with the new Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology , LIFE now offers a total of 15 undergraduate degrees in addition to its four graduate programs and the world ’ s largest single campus Doctor of Chiropractic program . More degree programs are expected to be introduced over the next few years .
For more information about the Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology degree program or any of Life University ’ s degree offerings , please visit www . LIFE . edu .
68 Alumni . LIFE . edu | 2019