Environmental Studies

The Environmental Studies degree at NIU prepares our students to meet environmental challenges on a local, regional, and/or global level. As a student in our program, you will analyze solutions to energy demands; assess the impact of environmental, climatic, and energy challenges facing society; and learn how to promote sustainability and the new policies surrounding it.

Students interested in studying the environment may choose from four options:

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree
• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree 
• Minor in environmental studies
• Future secondary science teachers may pursue teacher certification in Environmental Science through the Environmental Science Teacher Preparation Program.

The environmental studies program offers six areas of emphasis: biodiversity and environmental restoration, energy studies, environmental policy, human experience, non-governmental organizations, and water. You can customize your course of study to reflect your specific interests.

Environmental Studies Emphases

• Biodiversity and Environmental Restoration
• Energy Studies
• Environmental Policy
• Nature in Society
• Sustainable Food Systems
• Water Sciences