Purdue Global degree prepares students for real-world challenges, development of sustainable practices
Bachelor of Science in sustainability shaping the future and raising awareness of environmental and social responsibility

Purdue Global’s sustainability degree program is helping students learn its importance and how complex sustainability issues pertain to their specific chosen career areas. (Photo by Bjorn Wylezich)
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Growing up in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Mahin Tawrat watched his father manage development projects and help communities thrive while applying sustainable practices in his businesses.
“I was always curious about what is in people’s minds and what they think,” said Tawrat (BS sustainability, Purdue Global ’23). “Watching my father lead our community well, while witnessing others in leadership positions abuse policy and misuse funding, drove my interest in pursuing a career in sustainability.”
As the world continues to confront complex environmental challenges, the demand for professionals equipped with the knowledge and skills to drive sustainable change is rising. Seeing this need, Purdue Global launched a Bachelor of Science in sustainability program in 2022 that offers an interdisciplinary approach to tackling real-world issues, preparing students for careers that promote environmental health, economic vitality and social equity.
A global vision for a sustainable future
Purdue Global’s sustainability degree program emerged from recognizing the growing need for sustainability experts in industries ranging from energy and manufacturing to health care and hospitality. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the sustainability sector is projected to experience substantial growth by 2030, with new roles in environmental science, renewable energy, conservation and sustainable management.
Peg Hohensee, chair of the Math Department and interim chair of the Science Department in Purdue Global’s School of Multidisciplinary and Professional Studies, highlighted the program’s importance.
“This program is designed to address pressing global needs while cultivating innovative solutions in sustainability across diverse sectors,” Hohensee said. “With the green technology sector expected to reach $9.5 trillion by 2030, it was the perfect time to launch this degree and prepare students for the evolving job market.”
Amy Smith, a Science Department faculty member and member of the Society of American Foresters, integrates her extensive fieldwork into her teaching across various scientific disciplines.
Similarly, Bradley Sauls, a Science Department faculty member and former National Park Service employee, draws on his expertise in environmental and social sustainability to guide students through key topics. Wendi Wolfram, another faculty member, actively engages in biodiversity research in Texas and Georgia.
“Our faculty collaborate within the department and across disciplines to provide a comprehensive understanding of sustainability, integrating principles of environmental science, social justice and economic viability,” said Nikki Williams, assistant chair of the Science Department in the School of Multidisciplinary and Professional Studies.
Faculty are involved not only in research and professional organizations but also bring their real-world expertise into the classroom, where they prepare students for impactful careers.
“These hands-on activities not only enhance learning but also encourage students to critically analyze sustainability issues, fostering discussions around innovative solutions, policy and ethics,” Williams said.
Preparing students for the future
Purdue Global’s sustainability faculty equip students with the skills needed for a wide range of careers, including positions in corporate sustainability, environmental consulting, politics and nonprofit organizations. The ultimate goal is guiding businesses and communities toward a more sustainable and resilient future.
Darrell Evans, a Science Department faculty member, said the courses he teaches offer students an opportunity to engage and discuss sustainability topics in an open forum that allows for transformational growth.
“Oftentimes, we find that when the term ‘sustainability’ is uttered, most people immediately consider the environment, not understanding that sustainability itself is propped up equally by three primary pillars: society, the environment and the economy — no one greater in importance than the other,” Evans said. “Together, these three pillars provide the stability that sustainability demands.”
Students like Tawrat, the program’s first graduate, embody the program’s vision. His passion for sustainability was sparked by seeing firsthand the environmental challenges in his home country.
“My father’s work in sustainability inspired me to pursue this field, and Purdue Global’s program equipped me with the tools to think critically and develop innovative solutions for global sustainability issues,” Tawrat said.

Tawrat’s journey has already led him to graduate studies at New York University, where he continues his work in urban planning and policy.
“Purdue Global’s program opened doors for me, and I’m excited to use my degree to create meaningful change,” Tawrat said.
“Mahin exemplifies the skills and knowledge base that we hope to develop in all our students,” said Kate Scarpena, department chair for Humanities and Social Sciences who also teaches courses within the program. “His focus on urban spaces, in particular rooftop greenery and water reclamation, demonstrated a keen ability to think flexibly about the benefits and challenges of maintaining and developing urban greenspaces.”
Jeshua Coronado (BS sustainability, Purdue Global ’24) of Monterey Park, California, is the program’s second graduate. She grew up fascinated with outdoor activities including gardening, hiking and camping.
“Being in nature gave me a sense of peace and purpose, and those experiences helped me develop a deep respect for the environment,” Coronado said.

She emphasized how the program empowered her to take on meaningful work in sustainability.
“The skills I learned in my coursework have already helped me in my role with the California Climate Action Corps, and I look forward to continuing to inspire change through nonprofit work in an effort to bring our communities together and drive real change in the world,” Coronado said.
Program growth and future opportunities
The sustainability degree program is growing steadily, now up to 45 students. The diverse range of concentrations available within the degree, such as environmental science and sustainable hospitality, ensures that students can tailor their education to their passions and career goals.
“Earning my bachelor’s degree in sustainability wasn’t the only thing Purdue Global provided — it also ignited a new passion for community education,” Coronado said. “Through my research and writing, I realized how essential access to information is, especially for sustainability, where informed choices drive real change.”
Purdue Global continues to explore new sustainability concentrations. The program’s interdisciplinary approach ensures that students are prepared for the diverse challenges of sustainability across sectors.
“We’re at a very demanding time for sustainability, and the opportunities in this field are broadening every day,” Coronado said. “Students can make an impact in industries of all sizes, work in government roles or through nonprofits. Sustainability is now essential across every sector, with each role contributing to a more resilient and resource-conscious future.”
About Purdue Global
Purdue Global is Purdue’s online university for working adults who have life experience and often some college credits. It offers flexible paths for students to earn an associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree, based on their work experience, military service and previous college credits, no matter where they are in their life journey. Purdue Global is a nonprofit, public university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and backed by Purdue University. For more information, visit https://www.purdueglobal.edu.
Media contact: Adam Bartels, adam.bartels@purdueglobal.edu