MADISON, Wis. -- Adopting a green lifestyle has become more than a trend. Now, many can do more than simply live a green lifestyle, they can get a college degree in it.

A new cooperative initiative through the University of Wisconsin Extension combines higher education and green business. Starting this fall, students at four UW schools will be able to get a bachelor of science in sustainable management.

"It's about systems thinking in order to turn a business into being the most efficient and effective business that it can be," said Crystal Fey of UW Extension.

UW-Parkside, Stout, Superior and River Falls will offer the degree. Organizers said an eco-friendly incentive is that a commute to class isn't needed. All classes are online, officials said.

"The degree was meant for adult returning students. Students who are probably working, probably have a family so the online degree is more accessible we think and that's actually the whole point is to make it accessible," said Fey.

Accessibility is key for Sean Sullivan, who is newly enrolled in the program through UW-Superior.

"I plan on going fall, spring, and summer until I'm finished," said Sullivan.

The father of two works at Coca Cola in Madison and is already taking pre-enrollment courses.

"It's kind of a business slash environmental-type degree so it gives you an opportunity to work with business to help them to become more green, and it seems like that's an area that the government is kind of pushing lately so I think there'll be a lot of opportunities," said Sullivan.

After completing the 21-courses required for the degree, Sullivan said he hopes to help his job go green even more.

"Hopefully, coming out of this degree you'll learn how to make cuts or to help do things a little more efficiently more environmentally friendly," he said.

The bachelor's degree program is designed for people who have at least 60-college credits, like an associate's degree.

So far, 24 people have applied for the course work, officials said.

For More Info:

University of Wisconsin Online Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Management