About the Opportunities 

Do you want to...

• Make a difference in your community? 
• Apply what you have been learning in the classroom to real world situations? 
• Gain hands-on experience in the field? 

If you answer yes to these, take a closer look at ELP. This program is designed for you! 

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’ll 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’ll 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 
• Hands-on, field experience 
• An excellent experience to put on your resume 

You will develop skills in:   

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

Depending on the project, you may also gain skills in: 

• 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 

How to Apply 

All 2021-22 projects are full. The 2022-23 project descriptions and application will be available October 2022. 

Download the Environmental Leadership Program Application

The Environmental Leadership Program is competitive and is open to undergraduates with at least junior standing, although priority consideration will be given to Environmental Studies and Environmental Science majors.  

Please fill out the application form and email it to Katie Lynch (klynch@uoregon.edu) and Peg Boulay (boulay@uoregon.edu). Don’t forget to attach your resume. After receiving your application, Katie or Peg will email you to schedule an interview.