Summer courses are often offered to students as a way to earn credits outside of the standard academic schedule. These classes tend to run anywhere from several weeks to the entire summer.

What is a summer course in green studies? Green is a colloquial term for a variety of disciplines borrowing principles from ecology. Examples of programs with green studies include agriculture, forestry, architecture, civil engineering, energy, law and public policy. Students entering a course in green studies might find a general survey of how all of these topics are influenced by ecological concerns, such as climate change, resource scarcity or biodiversity. There are also often classes available specializing in one green studies topic, such as sustainable energy, atmospheric science or costal development.

Strategic thinking to improve existing ecosystems might help students make more ethical personal and business decisions. The organizational skills and critical thinking necessary to succeed in these courses are also often beneficial in a professional setting.

Due to the variety of programs, it is often best to check with each institution about course costs. Bear in mind that these fees might include travel, laboratory supplies or other expenditures.

There are often opportunities for individuals knowledgeable in green studies in a variety of businesses, from logging companies to compliance certification firms. A forester, for example, might use the knowledge to carry out his or her primary duties of protecting watersheds, developing wildlife habitats, marketing timber or planning replants. An architect with a background in green studies might find employment as an auditor. This position might entail using the principles of green architecture to certify construction projects at the appropriate level of energy efficiency on a clearly defined scale.

There is likely a green studies course that fits your interests. Search for your program below and contact directly the admission office of the school of your choice by filling in the lead form.