Our environmental studies program will provide you with broad-based knowledge of key environmental issues, such as climate change, environmental policy, water conservation and development of alternative energies. You will gain an understanding of the role of people in critical environmental issues and how they can be mobilized to help solve problems. The Institute for the Study of the Environment, Sustainability, and Energy fosters interdisciplinary research, education and community engagement. When you graduate, you will be prepared to meet environmental and energy challenges via careers in industry, government, small businesses, academic research and nonprofits. 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.