What would you think of someone who majored in Sustainability in college?

[Mark]

You'll probably have an easier time getting a job with a degree in biology. Assuming that there is a great deal of overlap in the course of study, a biologist is probably going to be able to get a job that is targeted to biologists and many jobs that are targeted to people who studied sustainability. However, someone with a degree in sustainability is probably not going to be considered for many of the jobs where they are looking for biologists.

I'm not being judgmental. I'm just trying to point out that statistically there will be more jobs available to you with a degree in biology. Now if you have no desire to work in a biology oriented job, don't let that stop you. It isn't like you are going to be working hundreds of jobs at one time. If it statistically takes you a bit longer to get a job that probably doesn't really matter in the long run. Still if you are wanting to choose the safest thing from a job market standpoint, sustainability might not be the best choice.

I would suggest that get a degree in biology and then get a minor in sustainability. That way you have it on your resume so you can shine in the job interviews where they really want someone with a sustainability background, but you don't eliminate yourself from any jobs where they are really looking for a biologist.

Another option would be to try to get a graduate certificate or citation in sustainability. A citation is usually about 16 hours and often it can be applied to a masters degree if you decide to go on later. Not only would this give you the sustainability education, but it would further distinguish you with some graduate work. If you work really hard you might even be able to complete everything in 4 years by taking a few summer classes.

Good luck!