Sustainability and Energy Studies

Renewable energy production is vital to balancing environmental protection with economic well-being. By learning about and advocating for the use of renewable technologies, you can help move society toward a more sustainable future. You'll take courses from the College of Business, the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology, and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Internships

You'll have access to internships with consulting companies and county health departments, as well as in geographic information systems. Possible internship sites include:

  • Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
  • Kishwaukee Water Reclamation District
  • Ogle County Health Department
  • Vector Disease Control International
  • World Wildlife Fund

Learn More About Internships

Research

You'll have opportunities to conduct research that matches your interests and goals. For example, you can participate in research on lighting systems, variable frequency drives and solar photovoltaic energy resources in the Building Energy Efficiency and Management (BEEAM) laboratory.

Learn More About Energy Research

Get Involved

You can enrich your study of sustainable energy by studying abroad in Iceland with the GREEN Program. You can also go on outdoor adventures, check out the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Club or join another group, such as:

  • Collegiate Association of Unreasonable Social Entrepreneurs (CAUSE)
  • Engineers without Borders
  • Go Green-Go Clean
  • Innovation Club

Explore Student Organizations

What Can I Do With a Sustainability and Energy Studies Emphasis?

Our hands-on learning environment will prepare you for a career developing and advancing sustainable energy solutions. Depending on your interests, some jobs you could have include:

  • Energy policy analyst
  • Environmental consultant
  • Environmental sustainability specialist
  • Public or nonprofit administrator
  • Social entrepreneur
  • Sustainability outreach specialist
  • Waste 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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