Academics | Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment | Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation

Academics

Preparing people to be leaders in sustainability and the environment is key to our mission. From our undergraduate educational offerings — which include a sustainability minor — to outreach efforts that bring together a range of scholars, experts, and others who are committed to seeking solutions, iSEE offers opportunities for everyone on campus.

iSEE’s Offerings

iSEE Fellows Program

Our undergraduate minor in sustainability prepares students for careers in the corporate sector, nonprofit organizations, government agencies and environmental advocacy groups. This program is open to all majors.

Certificate in Environmental Writing

The Certificate in Environmental Writing is for Illinois students wanting to engage with the latest research in sustainability science — and to build their skills in environmental communication.

Environmental Leadership Program

The Environmental Leadership Program is centered on environmental policy and legislative advocacy. It gives students real-world experience working with legislators, nonprofits, and business leaders.

Campus Offerings

The University of Illinois offers hundreds of opportunities for students to include sustainability as part of their educational experience. Campus at large offers dozens of majors, minors, certificate programs, and courses with sustainability components.

Explore Classes

Faculty Opportunities

Teaching Fellowships

Through the Levenick Undergraduate Research Scholars Program, students are invited to find a faculty mentor and submit a proposal for an independent research project that analyzes the sustainability of campus operations and identifies opportunities to advance outcomes.

Become an Affiliate

The interdisciplinary nature of our institute draws affiliates from a diverse range of disciplines across campus, enriching our conversations and leading to more innovative solutions.

Academics News

Journalism Course Joins the Certificate in Environmental Writing

JOUR 473: Environmental Journalism has been added to the Certificate in Environmental Writing. This course will give students the tools they need to thoughtfully report on environmental topics.

iSEE Names 2025–26 Levenick Resident Scholars

A cohort of experts from other universities, the private sector, and nonprofit organizations have been invited to share fresh perspectives, stimulate interdisciplinary interactions, and connect with the Illinois community.

The ELP Goes to Washington

iSEE’s signature Environmental Leadership Program (ELP) added a new federal experience this year, giving students first-hand access to policymaking and sustainability advocacy in the nation’s capital.

Sitton Award Provides ‘Amazing Opportunity’ for Student Leader

Illinois Environmental Council internship was a perfect fit for winner Rudy LaFave.

iSEE’s New Sitton Award Supports Summer Internships for Students

A gift from Doug and Dawn Sitton will fund the award, designed to improve student career prospects in the sustainability field.

iCAP Update: Educating Our Entire Campus about Climate Change

iSEE’s Environmental Leadership Program is a crowning achievement.

ELP Success Stories: Students Share Personal and Policy Accomplishments

Environmental Leadership Program already paying off for cohort members.

Students Earn 2023 Janelle Joseph Environmental Writing Contest Awards

Cash prizes will be awarded to four undergraduates; honorable mention article also up for publishing in Q Magazine.

Director’s Chair Becomes Official!

iSEE’s Madhu Khanna was honored as the Alvin H. Baum Family Fund Chair during an Oct. 12, 2023, investiture ceremony.