Why Choose NIU Environmental Studies?

Whether you're pursuing a major or minor in environmental studies or you simply want to learn more about the field, we provide many opportunities to expand your learning beyond the classroom and find professional success.

Lasting Connections

All environmental studies majors must complete the same set of core courses, enabling you to make lasting relationships with fellow students. We also host a variety of seminars, speaker series and research presentations to help you develop your professional network while you learn.

Opportunities to Get Involved

There are many ways to get involved on campus, such as joining environmental student organizations and participating in volunteer activities. We collaborate with student groups to host lots of events and activities, and many ENVS classes have a community-service component.

Hands-on Career Preparation

You'll be able to access a range of engaged-learning experiences, such as internships and faculty-led research projects. You'll also have opportunities to travel across the country on research trips, as well as international study abroad options.

Access to Local Resources and Natural Areas

Thanks to NIU's proximity to Chicago, you'll benefit from access to partnerships and internships with a range of universities and scientific centers, as well as a variety of field trips and learning experiences. You'll also be near many parks, forest preserves, wildlife restorations and other natural areas.

Testimonial

My plan to pursue architecture or urban planning, combined with my passion for science, led me to the environmental studies program. The mix of science and policy felt like the natural choice. The multidisciplinary nature of the program has expanded my career choices, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.

Samuel Lepien, environmental studies major