Academic and Research Resources
If you want to start an environmental career or take a class to learn more about environmental causes, we have many opportunities for you at NIU. You can pursue environmental education and incorporate hands-on learning through majors, minors, certificates and academic pathways.
Still don't see what you are looking for? Talk with your academic advisor about an independent study project tailored to your environmental interests.
Majors
- Biological sciences (emphasis in biodiversity)
- Earth, atmosphere and environment (emphases in climate science, earth and planetary science, earth and space science education, environment and society, geospacial systems, and water and soil science)
- Engineering technology (emphasis in energy and environmental engineering technology)
- Environmental studies
- Management (emphasis in entrepreneurship and social responsibility)
- Mechanical engineering (emphasis in sustainable energy)
- Meteorology
- Nonprofit and NGO studies
- Public health (emphasis in environment and health)
Minors
Certificates of Undergraduate Study
Northern Illinois Center for Community Sustainability
The Northern Illinois Center for Community Sustainability (NICCS) is an organization that focuses on promoting sustainable practices in local communities. NICCS provides education, training, and technical assistance to individuals and organizations interested in sustainable development. Through its programs, NICCS aims to foster collaboration among community members, local governments and businesses to promote sustainable economic, social and environmental practices. NICCS also conducts research on sustainability issues and works to integrate sustainability principles into decision-making processes at all levels of society.