Institute of Environmental Studies

Institute of Environmental Studies

Addressing global environmental challenges through research and education in sustainability and conservation. At Abide University, you’ll engage in fieldwork, research, and green campus initiatives to help build a more sustainable future.

Degree Programs

B.Sc. in Environmental Science

Gain an interdisciplinary understanding of environmental systems, pollution, resource management, and the development of sustainable solutions.

Specialization areas:

  • Environmental Policy & Law
  • Ecosystem Science & Management
  • Environmental Chemistry & Toxicology
  • Sustainable Resource Management

Features extensive fieldwork, laboratory research, GIS training, and hands-on sustainability projects.

B.Sc. in Conservation Biology

Focus on the principles of ecology, genetics, and wildlife management to protect biodiversity, restore habitats, and address threats to endangered species.

Specialization areas:

  • Wildlife Ecology & Management
  • Restoration Ecology
  • Marine Conservation
  • Conservation Genetics

Includes wildlife monitoring techniques, habitat restoration projects, and field trips to diverse ecosystems.

B.Sc. in Geography & Environmental Planning

Study spatial patterns, human-environment interactions, and apply planning principles for sustainable urban and regional development.

Specialization areas:

  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) & Remote Sensing
  • Urban & Regional Planning
  • Environmental Geography & Hazards
  • Sustainable Transportation Systems

Offers advanced GIS labs, community planning projects, and extensive fieldwork opportunities.

B.Sc. in Marine Science & Oceanography

Explore the diverse ecosystems of the ocean, study marine processes, and contribute to the conservation of marine biodiversity and resources.

Specialization areas:

  • Marine Biology & Ecology
  • Physical & Chemical Oceanography
  • Coastal Zone Management
  • Fisheries Science & Aquaculture

Provides coastal fieldwork, research vessel experiences, and internships with marine institutes.

B.Sc. in Environmental Health & Safety

Focus on identifying, evaluating, and controlling environmental factors that can impact human health and safety in communities and workplaces.

Specialization areas:

  • Occupational Health & Industrial Hygiene
  • Environmental Toxicology & Risk Assessment
  • Water & Air Quality Management
  • Food Safety & Public Health

Includes laboratory analysis, field sampling techniques, and internships with regulatory agencies.

B.Sc. in Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems

Explore principles of agroecology, sustainable food production, food policy, and community food security to build resilient food systems.

Specialization areas:

  • Agroecology & Organic Farming
  • Food Policy & Advocacy
  • Community Food Systems & Urban Agriculture
  • Sustainable Supply Chain Management

Features hands-on farm experience, food system analysis projects, and community garden development.

M.Sc. in Climate Science & Policy

Gain advanced understanding of climate change impacts, modeling techniques, adaptation strategies, and the formulation of effective international climate policy.

Specialization areas:

  • Climate Modeling & Data Analysis
  • Climate Adaptation & Resilience Planning
  • Renewable Energy Policy & Transition
  • International Climate Governance & Law

Features climate modeling workshops, policy development labs, and collaborations with international research institutions.

M.Sc. in Environmental Policy & Management

Develop expertise in environmental law, policy analysis, and sustainable resource management to lead in governmental, non-profit, or corporate sectors.

Specialization areas:

  • Environmental Law & Regulation
  • Natural Resource Management & Economics
  • Corporate Sustainability & ESG Reporting
  • Urban Environmental Planning & Policy

Includes policy analysis projects, advocacy training, and leadership development seminars.

M.Sc. in Sustainable Development

An interdisciplinary program focusing on the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of creating sustainable and resilient communities and systems.

Specialization areas:

  • Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems
  • Renewable Energy & Green Technology
  • Community Development & Social Equity
  • International Development Policy & Practice

Involves international development projects, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement strategies.

M.Sc. in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology

Advanced study of ecological principles, evolutionary processes, biodiversity patterns, and their application to conservation and environmental management.

Specialization areas:

  • Population & Community Ecology
  • Evolutionary Genetics & Genomics
  • Behavioral Ecology & Animal Behavior
  • Conservation Ecology & Management

Offers intensive field research, molecular ecology lab work, and advanced statistical modeling.

M.Sc. in Environmental Toxicology & Risk Assessment

Examine the effects of pollutants on ecosystems and human health, and develop skills in risk assessment and management strategies.

Specialization areas:

  • Ecotoxicology & Aquatic Systems
  • Human Health Risk Assessment
  • Molecular Toxicology & Biomarkers
  • Regulatory Toxicology & Policy

Includes advanced laboratory techniques, exposure modeling, and case studies in risk communication.

M.Sc. in Renewable Energy Technologies & Management

Focus on the science, engineering, policy, and management of renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal power.

Specialization areas:

  • Solar Energy Systems & Photovoltaics
  • Wind Energy Technology & Grid Integration
  • Energy Storage & Smart Grid Management
  • Renewable Energy Policy & Finance

Provides hands-on projects with renewable energy systems, energy modeling software, and policy analysis.

Certificate in Sustainability

Provide foundational knowledge and practical skills in sustainability principles applicable across various sectors for professionals and community leaders.

Focus Areas:

  • Sustainable Business Practices & Reporting
  • Community Sustainability & Resilience Planning
  • Environmental Education & Outreach Strategies
  • Green Building Design & Operations

Highlights hands-on workshops, green campus initiatives, and community engagement projects.

Ph.D. in Environmental Science & Management

Conduct original, impactful research on complex environmental problems, contributing to scientific knowledge and the development of sustainable solutions.

Research Concentrations:

  • Climate Change Impacts & Adaptation Strategies
  • Ecosystem Dynamics & Restoration Ecology
  • Environmental Policy, Governance & Justice
  • Sustainable Resource Management & Circular Economy
  • Environmental Health, Toxicology & Risk Assessment

Features dissertation research, advanced seminars, grant writing workshops, and university teaching opportunities.

Ph.D. in Conservation Science

Lead cutting-edge research in biodiversity conservation, endangered species recovery, habitat management, and landscape-scale conservation strategies.

Research Concentrations:

  • Applied Wildlife Ecology & Population Dynamics
  • Conservation Genetics, Genomics & eDNA
  • Landscape Ecology & Geospatial Analysis
  • Human-Wildlife Conflict & Coexistence
  • Marine & Freshwater Conservation Biology

Provides international fieldwork opportunities, advanced statistical analysis training, and policy engagement.

Ph.D. in Earth System Science

Investigate the complex interactions between Earth's atmosphere, oceans, land surface, and cryosphere, using modeling and observational data.

Research Concentrations:

  • Atmospheric Dynamics & Climate Modeling
  • Oceanography & Marine Biogeochemistry
  • Hydrology & Water Cycle Dynamics
  • Paleoclimatology & Earth History

Access to high-performance computing, remote sensing data, and interdisciplinary research collaborations.

Fieldwork & Green Campus Initiatives

Field Research Expeditions

Participate in hands-on fieldwork in forests, wetlands, mountains, and coastal regions. Collect data, monitor wildlife, and study ecosystems.

Green Campus Projects

Lead sustainability initiatives on campus: solar energy deployment, waste reduction programs, green roof installations, and community gardens.

Environmental Education Outreach

Educate and engage the public, K-12 students, and community groups through workshops, school programs, and environmental awareness campaigns.

International Conservation Partnerships

Join global research teams and conservation efforts in partnership with international NGOs, research institutions, and government agencies.

Campus Arboretum & Biodiversity Monitoring

Contribute to the management and study of the campus arboretum, conducting biodiversity surveys and ecological monitoring.

Sustainable Transportation Initiatives

Develop and promote sustainable transportation options on campus, including bike-sharing programs and public transit advocacy.

Water Conservation & Management Projects

Implement and monitor water-saving technologies, conduct water quality assessments, and promote water stewardship on campus.

Environmental Justice Advocacy Group

Research and advocate for environmental justice issues, working with affected communities and policymakers to promote equity.

Campus Composting Program & Waste Audits

Implement and manage campus-wide composting initiatives and conduct waste audits to improve resource efficiency.

Ecological Restoration Volunteer Days

Participate in hands-on restoration of local ecosystems, including invasive species removal and native plantings.

Citizen Science Monitoring Projects

Engage the public in collecting environmental data (e.g., bird counts, water quality) to support research and conservation efforts.

Meet Our Faculty

Dr. Alan Kim
Dr. Alan Kim
Professor of Environmental Science
"Ecosystem modeling, climate change, and field research."
Dr. Priya Desai
Dr. Priya Desai
Associate Professor, Conservation Biology
"Wildlife conservation, restoration ecology, and biodiversity."
Dr. Samuel Lee
Dr. Samuel Lee
Assistant Professor, Climate Policy
"Climate policy, environmental law, and sustainability leadership."

Student Life & Opportunities

Environmental Club & Sustainability Network

Join a passionate community of changemakers. Organize clean-ups, tree plantings, awareness campaigns, and policy advocacy.

Sustainability Innovation Challenges

Participate in sustainability hackathons, green technology design competitions, and research challenges. Win awards and scholarships.

Environmental Internships & Co-ops

Gain real-world experience with environmental NGOs, government agencies, consulting firms, and research institutes.

Global Environmental Exchange Programs

Study abroad or join international research programs focused on diverse ecosystems and global environmental issues.

Environmental Film Festival & Speaker Series

Organize and attend film screenings, guest lectures by environmental leaders, and panel discussions on pressing topics.

Outdoor Recreation & Nature Appreciation Club

Explore local natural areas through hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, and promote appreciation for the environment.

Student Sustainability Leadership Program

Develop leadership skills by spearheading campus sustainability projects, mentoring peers, and advocating for green policies.

Career Fairs with Green Employers

Connect with organizations in renewable energy, conservation, environmental consulting, and sustainable business sectors.

Campus Community Garden & Permaculture Group

Participate in growing food sustainably on campus, learn permaculture design, and promote local food systems.

Environmental Journal Club & Discussion Group

Engage in critical discussions of current environmental research papers, documentaries, and policy debates.

Research & Impact

Center for Sustainability Research & Practice

Collaborate on projects in renewable energy, waste reduction, sustainable agriculture, and circular economy models.

Biodiversity Conservation & Restoration Lab

Study endangered species, restore degraded habitats, and partner with conservation organizations for real-world impact.

Climate Change Adaptation & Mitigation Group

Analyze climate data, model future scenarios, assess vulnerabilities, and advise on policy for climate adaptation and mitigation.

Water Resources Research Institute

Focus on water quality, hydrology, watershed management, and sustainable water use policies.

Center for Urban Ecology & Sustainable Cities

Research green infrastructure, urban biodiversity, sustainable transportation, and the environmental impacts of urbanization.

Indigenous Knowledge & Environmental Practices Program

Collaborate with indigenous communities to understand and integrate traditional ecological knowledge into conservation and resource management.

Air Quality & Atmospheric Science Lab

Monitor air pollutants, study atmospheric chemistry, and research the impacts of air quality on human and ecosystem health.

Geospatial Analysis & Environmental Modeling Center

Utilize GIS, remote sensing, and spatial statistics to model environmental processes, land use change, and conservation planning.

Aquatic Ecology & Fisheries Research Unit

Investigate freshwater and marine ecosystems, fish population dynamics, and sustainable fisheries management practices.

Wildfire Science & Management Program

Study fire ecology, wildfire behavior, risk assessment, and strategies for resilient landscape management in fire-prone areas.

What Our Students Say

The fieldwork and green campus projects helped me turn my passion for the environment into a career.
— Aizhan, Environmental Science '25
The conservation biology program gave me hands-on experience with wildlife and restoration projects.
— Timur, Conservation Biology '24
The climate science faculty and research labs prepared me for a career in policy and advocacy.
— Meerim, Climate Science '25

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to the Institute of Environmental Studies?
Apply online through the Abide University admissions portal. Submit transcripts, a personal statement detailing your environmental interests, letters of recommendation, and relevant test scores.
Are fieldwork and internships required for all programs?
Yes, hands-on fieldwork, internships with environmental organizations, or significant research projects are integral components of all our degree programs.
What global opportunities are available for environmental studies?
Students can participate in international research expeditions, study abroad programs focused on global environmental challenges, and internships with international conservation NGOs.
What kind of career support is offered to Environmental Studies graduates?
Our career services offer specialized advising, resume workshops, mock interviews, and networking events with employers in environmental consulting, conservation, government agencies, renewable energy, and sustainable business.
Are there opportunities to work with GIS and other environmental technologies?
Yes, many of our programs integrate training in GIS, remote sensing, environmental modeling software, and field data collection technologies. We have dedicated labs and resources for these.
How does the Institute collaborate with local communities or government agencies?
We have strong partnerships with local municipalities, regional environmental agencies, and community groups for research projects, internships, and service-learning initiatives aimed at addressing local environmental concerns.
Are there specific lab safety protocols I need to be aware of?
Yes, all students working in laboratories receive comprehensive safety training covering chemical handling, equipment operation, and emergency procedures, adhering to strict university and national safety standards.
Can I pursue professional certifications through the Institute?
While our degree programs provide foundational knowledge, some courses may help prepare you for certifications like LEED Green Associate, Certified Wildlife Biologist®, or various GIS Professional (GISP) certifications. We also offer specific certificate programs like our Certificate in Sustainability.
Are research assistantships or scholarships available for environmental studies students?
Yes, the Institute offers a number of research assistantships for graduate students, often tied to faculty grants. Additionally, several university-wide and department-specific scholarships are available for eligible environmental studies students based on merit and financial need.
Who do I contact for more information?
Email [email protected] or visit the Environmental Studies Student Services Office.

Begin Your Environmental Journey

Ready to protect, restore, and innovate for the planet? Apply now or connect with an advisor to learn more about our programs and opportunities.

Apply Now