A human ecology course teaches students about sustainability and how geography, social constructs and even economics play a role. Students may benefit from an interdisciplinary study combined with real-life experience to understand the resources and communication needed to create a sustainable life.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.