It’s not exactly a newsflash that the planet is in great peril. While there have been tremendous strides toward curbing carbon emissions, the U.S. and others still have a long way to go before the planet is back on track. That’s why many in the up-and-coming generation are opting for jobs that help solve the crisis of our lifetime. So for those interested in tackling the issue from a Policy Research perspective, check out the below schools with top-notch programs:
UC Berkeley
It’s not shocking that the top program in the country for Environmental Policy Research is on the West Coast. Cali has always been progressive on climate action. In fact, it’s probably the most actionable and impactful state on leading climate policy in the whole country. Berkeley’s Rausser College of Natural Resources houses the Department of Agriculture and Resource Economics. That department offers a major in Environmental Economics and Policy. This is a great major for anyone interested in Environmental Law, Policy, Resource Management, or Econ as a career path.
Indiana University
Indiana’s Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs is also among the best. This school offers a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental and Sustainability Studies. Environmental and Sustainability Studies majors can choose from concentrations in Biodiversity and Sustainability, Environmental Ethics and Justice, Sustainable Energy, Resources, and Climate, and Sustainable Food Systems.
Duke University
Duke’s Nicholas School of the Environment offers both a B.S. in Environmental Sciences and an A.B. in Environmental Sciences & Policy. It also offers a minor in Environmental Sciences & Policy. There are many course offerings in Environmental Policy, alone, from Marine Policy, to Coastal Watershed Science Policy, and Social Impact Analysis. Students also have the option to partake in a semester at a marine lab, as well as study abroad which includes extensive fieldwork.
Harvard
It’s not shocking to see Harvard at the top of this list or any other. The school offers a concentration in Environmental Science and Public Policy. Coursework includes Technology, Environmental Science and Public Policy, The Law and Policy of Climate Change, The Technology, Economics, and Public Policy of Renewable Energy, and Global Wetlands: Boundary-spanning Systems for science, social justice, and public policy.
Michigan
Michigan’s School for Environment and Sustainability offers the Program in the Environment. Students in this program take courses in humanities, as well as natural and social sciences to fill the requirements. It includes coursework in Environmental policy, Climate Econ and Policy, Policy and Planning for Urban Resilience and Climate Action. This program also has a practical experience component, encompassing study abroad and residential field stations which looks like small group research across different settings.
UC Davis
Another UC school is on our list. UC Davis offers an Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning Major with seven tracks, including Climate Change Policy. This track focuses on air quality policies in particular and includes courses on climate policy, climate science, and environmental economics. There is also an Integrative Policy track with possible focus areas on sustainable development, environmental and natural resource economics, and more. Additionally, students can choose the Environmental Policy & Politics track which offers courses like Methods of Environmental Policy Evaluation, and Environmental Impact Assessment, and Environmental Law. There’s also a minor in Environmental Policy Analysis & Planning.
Penn
Penn’s School of Arts and Sciences is home to its major in Environmental Studies which also offers a concentration in Environmental Policy and Application. Coursework is focused on outcomes in Environmental Economics, Sustainability, Renewable Resources, and Environmental Management. Coursework includes Energy Systems and Policy, Public Policy Analyses, the Urban Environment, Air Pollution: Sources and Effects in Urban Environments and more.
Boston University
BU offers an Environmental Analysis & Policy major. There is also a very broad course offering for those interested in Environmental Policy Research. There is coursework in Food, Energy, and Water Policy, as well as Global Environmental Negotiation and Policy. There are also classes in International Policy. (After all, climate change is a global issue!). BU also has Earth House, which is a sustainable living community. There are also international study/internship opportunities in DC, Sydney, and Copenhagen.
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech is home to an Environmental Policy and Planning major. There is also a minor. Courses include the U.S. Policy Process, Law of Critical Environmental Areas, Land Use and Environment: Policy and Planning, Sustainable Urbanization, and many more. Students in this field are also given the opportunity to study abroad or opt-in for Washington semester.
Northwestern
Northwestern’s Environmental Policy and Culture Program focuses on the social sciences and humanities, including a focus on conflict. The department offers both a major and a minor. Courses include International Environmental Law and Policy, Cultural Resources Management and Environmental Policy, Ocean Law and Policy, Applied Policy Analysis, Climate and Energy, and more.
There are many industries and professions now geared towards solving the climate crisis. For those who want to impact the issue by affecting policy, getting into one of the top programs for Policy or Policy Research is a great way to get started. The best way to ensure success in the application process (other than excellent grades and scores) is to position yourself as an expert in Policy Research in high school. Take on extracurriculars and classes that match the field you want to enter.
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