Program Overview

About the Environmental Leadership Program

The Environmental Leadership Program (ELP) is designed for undergraduate students who want to make a difference in their community, apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations, and gain experiential learning experience in the field.

What You Should Know

This is a very demanding program. ELP students must be highly motivated, independent, and very interested in practical solutions to real-world environmental problems. You will develop research and professional skills by working in an intensive, team-based experiential learning environment. Whether you are collecting data on turtle habitat or leading environmental education programs, you will be providing a valuable service to your community partner.

• A graduate student will serve as your project manager and direct supervisor.
• You will be expected to dedicate at least 10-12 hours per week to your project.
• Occasionally, the project will demand more of your time.
• Most projects build directly to courses that are part of the ENVS/ESCI major requirements see individual project descriptions for information on prerequisites.

What You Will Gain

• Academic credit (4 credits/term)
• Credit toward your major (for ENVS and ESCI majors). Participation in ELP fulfills the Area 5, practical learning experience requirement, and generally the winter term prerequisite fulfills the Area 4 requirement as well
• Experiential learning, field experience
• An excellent experience to put on your resume

Skills You Will Develop

• Leadership and collaboration
• Public presentation
• Website development
• Report preparation
• Networking with regional organizations and potential future employers
• Confidence!

Additional Skills You May Gain

• Data collection and analysis (e.g., GIS and survey design)
• Environmental education development and facilitation
• Social science research (e.g., interviews, participant observation, surveys)
• Event planning

Program Structure

The program is structured to provide students with a comprehensive and immersive experience, combining academic rigor with practical application. Students will work closely with their project manager and community partners to develop and implement projects that address real-world environmental challenges.