Frequently Asked Questions for Prospective Sustainability Students

• What Is Environmental Science?

  Environmental science is a STEM field focusing on environmental health, sustainability, human impacts on the environment, and how to create solutions that combine various approaches of natural sciences.

• Which Resources Can I Use to Filter Green/Sustainable Campuses and Their Rankings?

  The Princeton Review Guide to Green Colleges, Times Higher Education Impact Ratings, and QS World University Rankings in Sustainability are all excellent resources for students interested in pursuing their academic journey at a top sustainable institution.

• Which Shorelight Schools Are Recognized as ‘America’s Greenest Schools’ by the Princeton Review?

  Currently, more than 40 Shorelight schools identify among the greenest in the US:

  East

  Adelphi University, American University (DC), Colby Sawyer College, Fairfield University, Lycoming College, Moravian University, The New School, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Salve Regina University, Stony Brook University, University at Buffalo, University of Massachusetts–Amherst, University of New England, and Wentworth Institute of Technology

  Midwest

  Cleveland State University, Hanover College, Lewis University, University of Dayton, University of Illinois Chicago, University of Illinois at Springfield, University of Mount Union, University of Wisconsin-River Falls, University of Wisconsin—Eau Claire, and University of Wisconsin-Platteville

  South

  Auburn College, Austin College, Louisiana State University, Lynn University, Randolph College, Shenandoah University, Southwestern University, Virginia Wesleyan College, and University of Central Florida

  West

  Gonzaga University, Pepperdine University, Saint Mary’s College of California, University of Wyoming, University of the Pacific, University of Utah, and University of Nevada, Reno

  *Shorelight schools in the top 50

• Which Research Opportunities Are Available for Me at a US University?

  In class, you’ll collaborate with peers to conduct experiments and test solutions. Possible research opportunities include working alongside a faculty member on a research area for additional course credits. Some universities enable students to work on national experiments, while also being able to apply for grants and sponsors for their own research initiatives. Depending on your university and degree, you can also apply for mentorship and internship programs designed to offer first-hand insight on industry-leading research opportunities. Reach out to your academic advisor on how you can participate in research projects suited to your degree and career pathway.

• Which Types of Careers Focus on Building a More Sustainable Future?

  Environmental specialist, ecologist, marine biologist, conservation scientist, hydrologist, and environmental engineer, among other roles, are possible career paths for students interested in sustainability degrees.

• What Is the Projected Job Market for Careers in Sustainability?

  The World Economic Forum has reported that postings for green jobs are growing nearly twice as fast as the number of workers with the skills to fill them.