Environmental Policy and Law

Our future on this planet depends on the ability of governments at all levels to translate scientific knowledge into laws that motivate sustainable actions and solutions. You can help create a more sustainable future by pursuing the environmental policy and law emphasis. The skills you gain will enable you to navigate politics, ideology and social processes that contribute to environmental problems and solutions.

Internships

You'll have access to internships with state and local governmental agencies, as well as nongovernmental organizations. Some potential internship sites include:

  • Citizens' Environmental Commission of DeKalb
  • Environmental Compliance Consulting
  • GeoCorps America/Bureau of Land Management
  • Lake County Stormwater Management Commission
  • Region One Planning Council

Learn More About Internships

Research

You'll have opportunities to conduct research that aligns with your interests. For example, you can get involved with the Research in the Behaviors, Attitudes, Resources and Knowledge of Sustainability (BARKS) campus survey or the Illinois Municipal Sustainability Survey (IMSS).

Learn More About Environmental Policy Research

Get Involved

You can get active on campus by serving on the environmental committee of the Student Government Association, going on outdoor adventures, participating in a spring break trip to Washington, D.C., or joining student organizations, including: 

  • Collegiate Association of Unreasonable Social Entrepreneurs (CAUSE)
  • History Club
  • Inclusive Birding Club
  • Pre-Law Honors Society

Explore Student Organizations

What Can I Do With an Environmental Policy and Law Emphasis?

The transdisciplinary skills you gain in negotiation, communication and collaboration will prepare you to start making a difference in the world. Some jobs you could have include:

  • Energy policy analyst
  • Environmental consultant
  • Environmental lawyer
  • Environmental policy analyst
  • Environmental nonprofit grant writer
  • Public or nonprofit administrator
  • Sustainability program manager

Learn More About Career Resources

Complementary Programs

Contact Us

Institute for the Study of the Environment, Sustainability and Energy
325 Montgomery Hall
DeKalb, IL 60115
Phone: 815-753-1814
Email: envs@niu.edu
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