Department of Human Ecology

What is Human Ecology?

The Department of Human Ecology of the Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences addresses the human dimensions of environmental problems and their solutions. Faculty from diverse disciplines study the complex relationships between humans and the environment to inform the development of equitable environmental solutions and practices that balance human well-being and the environment.  The key practice driving our mission is “collaborative leadership.” To learn more about the Department of Human Ecology and its mission read the 2025-2029 Strategic Plan (2MB PDF).

Climate, Food and Nature in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam

Explore the Mekong Delta through Rutgers’ faculty-led Winter Study Abroad program. This 3-credit course immerses students in one of the world’s most important food-producing regions, examining how…

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Second Annual Summer School on Sustainability Governance

From August 24–28, 2026, the Department of Human Ecology hosted its second annual Summer School on Sustainability Governance, welcoming nearly 30 doctoral students, postdoctoral researchers, and early-career…

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Topic: How Do We Get There: Sustainability Beyond Vision

September 22, 2026 Speaker: Dr. E. Melanie DuPuis, Professor and Chair, Environmental Studies and Science, Pace University Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2026 Time: 10:20am-11:40am Location: Rutgers University,…

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