Emphasis in Environmental Communication

The Environmental Communication emphasis at California State University offers students a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to understanding the complex relationship between humans and the environment through effective communication strategies. This program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to convey critical environmental issues to diverse audiences, fostering greater awareness and promoting sustainable behaviors. Students will explore a range of topics, including environmental policy, media analysis, public relations, storytelling, and science communication, all within the context of pressing environmental challenges such as climate change, pollution, conservation, and resource management. The curriculum emphasizes practical experience through internships, project-based learning, and collaborations with community organizations, enabling students to develop real-world communication skills. Graduates of the Environmental Communication emphasis are prepared for careers in environmental advocacy, science journalism, media production, public relations, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and corporate sustainability initiatives. The program also encourages critical thinking about media representation, ethical considerations in communication, and the role of digital platforms in shaping public perception of environmental issues. With faculty expertise from diverse fields including communication, environmental science, policy, and media studies, students receive a well-rounded education that integrates theoretical foundations with applied skills. The emphasis aims to cultivate environmentally literate citizens who can effectively advocate for ecological sustainability and influence positive change through compelling storytelling and strategic communication. By the end of the program, students will have gained the ability to analyze environmental messages, craft persuasive narratives, and utilize various media tools to engage the public and policymakers alike. This emphasis reflects California State University’s commitment to addressing global environmental problems through innovative communication solutions, preparing graduates to become influential voices in the fight for a sustainable future.

ANTH/ESRM 332 Human Ecology (3) D, Interdisciplinary
CHEM 301 Environmental Chemistry (3) (Prereq. CHEM 122)
ENGL 337 Literature of the Environment (3) C2, D. Interdisciplinary
ESRM 313 Conservation Biology (4) (Prereq. BIOL 200)
ESRM 329 Environmental Law and Policy (3) (Prereq. ESRM 100)
ESRM 462 Coastal & Marine Management (3) (Prerequisites include: BIOL 433, ECON 362, ESRM 329)
ESRM 463 Water Resources Management (3) (Prerequisites include: BIOL 433, ECON 362, ESRM 329)
ESRM 464 Land Use Planning & Agricultural Management (3) (Prerequisites include: BIOL 433, ECON 362, ESRM 329)
ESRM 482 Issues in Environmental Planning & Resource Management (3) (Prerequisites include: BIOL 433, ECON 362, ESRM 329)
ESRM 483 Issues in Global Resource Management (3)
GEOL 121 Physical Geology (4) or GEOL 122 Historical Geology (3)
GEOL 321 Environmental Geology (4)
BIOL 433 Ecology and the Environment (4) (Prereq. BIOL 200) (B2, Interdisciplinary)

International Freshmen Checklist  

International Transfer Checklist 

Financial Affidavit for Undergraduate applicants 

Submit all application documents to the Center for International Affairs. 

*Transfer Students: We are currently accepting applications from all community colleges in the U.S.  Please make sure that you have at least 60 units and have completed “Oral communication”, “Written communication”, “Critical thinking” and “College level mathematics/quantitative reasoning” with “C” or better.  Please note that the Nursing programs are closed for international students.  

English Score

Submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other acceptable test (see below for list of tests).  Scores must be sent directly to CSUCI from testing agency.

Acceptable English Placement Exams

TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language with a minimum Paper-Based score of 500, a minimum Computer Based score of 173 or a minimum Internet Based score of 61.

IELTS – International English Language Test System with an overall band score of 6.0.

*Transfer students: It’s not necessary to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score if you have completed the required Freshman Composition Class at your community college.

Funding for the Emphasis in Environmental Communication program at California State University primarily comes from a combination of university resources, state funding, and external financial aid options. Undergraduate students enrolled in the program typically pay tuition fees established by the California State University system, which are determined based on residency status and enrollment levels. In-state students benefit from lower tuition rates compared to out-of-state students, making the program more accessible to California residents. Additionally, students have access to various financial aid opportunities, including federal and state grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. The CSU system offers scholarship programs specifically aimed at students pursuing degrees in environmental studies and communications, which can significantly offset tuition costs.

Students may also consider private scholarships and external funding sources focused on environmental and communication fields. For example, numerous non-profit organizations, corporate sponsors, and environmental advocacy groups offer scholarships to students interested in environmental communication, sustainability, and related disciplines. Some students may qualify for federal student loans, which provide low-interest financing repayable after graduation. To access these funds, students need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Furthermore, some students secure internships and research assistantships, which sometimes include stipends, providing both experiential learning and financial support. The university may offer specific grants or stipends for research projects related to environmental communication, particularly for graduate students or those involved in sponsored research. Additionally, the university encourages students to explore external fellowships and grants focused on environmental issues and communication strategies.

Overall, while the program itself does not have dedicated funding, students have access to a variety of financial resources. These resources are designed to support their educational pursuits and enhance their professional development in environmental communication. It is recommended that prospective students contact the university’s financial aid office or visit the official university website for the most current details about funding options, application procedures, and deadlines.

The Emphasis in Environmental Communication at California State University is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively communicate complex environmental issues to diverse audiences. This program focuses on integrating principles of communication, environmental studies, and media to prepare graduates for careers in environmental advocacy, policy, education, and media. Students will explore various forms of communication including digital media, public relations, reports, and social media platforms, all tailored to promote environmental awareness and action. The curriculum emphasizes understanding environmental science and policy while developing communication strategies suitable for advocacy campaigns, community outreach, and educational initiatives. Coursework covers topics such as environmental journalism, strategic communication, media literacy, and environmental ethics, providing a comprehensive foundation that aligns with the demands of modern environmental communication professions.

Students are encouraged to engage in practical experiences through internships, projects, and collaborations with environmental organizations, giving them real-world skills and professional exposure. The program also emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity, ethical communication, and the role of technology in environmental advocacy, ensuring graduates are competent in addressing global and local environmental challenges. The emphasis prepares students for a diverse range of careers including environmental communicator, public information officer, policy advocate, science communicator, and media specialist.

Graduates will be equipped to develop compelling narratives, utilize digital platforms effectively, and foster public understanding of environmental issues to inspire positive change. The program's interdisciplinary approach ensures students gain a holistic view of environmental problems and learn how to communicate solutions creatively and persuasively. Emphasis in Environmental Communication is an innovative component of California State University’s broader commitment to sustainability and public engagement, reflecting the university's dedication to preparing environmentally responsible professionals.