Princeton Environmental Institute (PEI) is the interdisciplinary center for environmental research, education and outreach at Princeton University. PEI is committed to advancing knowledge, creating awareness and developing the next generation of leadership in the environmental field.

To this end, PEI comprises nearly 65 Associated Faculty members representing 17 academic disciplines that research and develop solutions to a variety of issues relating to the environment and is the center for several high-profile research initiatives such as climate change, energy, conservation, biodiversity, water, and infectious diseases.

Undergraduate Certificate Program

PEI offers an undergraduate certificate program in environmental studies that brings together students from the natural sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities who share a mutual interest in the environment. The certificate program consists of two introductory survey courses focusing on global environmental issues.

These introductory courses can be taken with or without a laboratory component which uses a combination of field and traditional lab exercises to explore a hands-on approach to building understanding of central environmental concepts. When taken with the lab component, the introductory courses fulfill the Science and Technology distribution requirement.

Several upper level courses are offered in a variety of formats including lectures and seminars that provide deeper exploration of environmental topics. Many certificate courses are cross listed to enable students to explore environmental issues from the vantage point of multiple disciplines and perspectives.

A senior colloquium is required for senior concentrators with emphasis on developing the senior thesis. PEI sponsors and awards several prizes for outstanding undergraduate academic work and in recognition of outstanding student environmental leadership. In addition, PEI provides funding for undergraduate research in connection with the senior thesis experience.

Internships

PEI encourages students to pursue internships that combine experiential learning, research and civic engagement to enhance the student's overall understanding of environmental problems. Students have benefited from a wide range of domestic and international assignments - including internships with governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, private industry, campus and community projects. PEI maintains a website to connect undergraduates with research opportunities and provides funding for meaningful study and engagement.

Grand Challenges

Beginning in the 2007-2008 academic year, students will be able to apply for Grand Challenges, competitive internship positions with Princeton faculty on field research projects that focus on significant global environmental challenges including climate and energy, hydrology and rural poverty in Africa, and global health.