University at Buffalo (UB)
Experiential Learning Opportunities
Ecological Methods class (EVS 310) collecting monarch butterflies. Photo courtesy Danielle Dolan.
Diving into environmental research and internships is key to finding your speciality (your JAM!) in this vast field. We highly recommend that every student in EVS grabs the chance to take at least one internship during their studies. It’s the perfect way to apply what you’ve learned in class to real-world challenges and discover what sparks your passion in the environment and sustainability world!
A world of experience awaits you....
At the Department of Environment and Sustainability (EVS), we're all about hands-on learning. Every degree program we offer is packed with chances to get out into the field. You can dive into environmental internships, take part in expedition courses like EVS493, explore new places through Study Abroad programs, or get involved in research projects. These opportunities don't just build your skills—they also connect you with professionals, create unforgettable memories, and open doors to thrilling careers.
If you're ready to jump into any of these Experiential Learning Opportunities, make sure to chat with your Departmental Advisor, whether you're focused on Environmental Studies/Sustainability or Environmental Science. And remember, we encourage students from all three majors to explore study abroad experiences. Our advisors are here to help you figure out how these courses can fit into your major and enhance your academic journey.
EVS 493 Ecology of Unique Environments.
Everglades, FL
EVS 493 Ecology of Unique Environments.
Costa Rica
Many of our spring and fall semester courses incorporate experiential learning:
EVS students took a historical tour along the Buffalo River and out into the Buffalo outer harbor. Students also learned about the ecology and restoration of these waterbodies. EVS 310 Ecological Methods, EVS 199 UB Seminar, EVS 489: Special Topics:Urban Ecology and EVS 454/552 Limnology.
EVS 310 Ecological Methods students learning about leaf litter associated invertebrates.
EVS 199 Weather and Climate students learning about traveling into space through Virtual Reality. Students experienced temperature and altitude changes while traveling into the upper atmosphere.
EVS 452/552 Limnology students collecting water quality samples in Lake LaSalle, University at Buffalo.
EVS 311 Sustainability Methods students visited Farmer Pirates to learn about food composting methods and operations of Farmer Pirates.
EVS 310 Ecological Methods students visited the Niagara Falls and conducted Monarch butterfly tagging.
EVS 315 Field Ecology students visited Shale Creek to learn about forest ecology.
Shaping Sustainability Through Active Learning in Higher Education
"Dr. Swathi Karamcheti, with her vibrant storytelling and rich experiences, is transforming the educational landscape, one engaging lecture at a time"
Listen to this podcast to learn how experiential learning is incorporated in the classroom!
Environmental Internships are very important components of EVS. Students pursuing the BA Degree in Environmental Sustainability and the BS Degree in Environmental Studies are required to complete a 3-credit internship. Students pursuing a BS in Environmental Science may complete a 3-credit internship in order to fulfill a 400-level Elective requirement. All students interested in participating in internships are required to schedule a meeting with the Internship Coordinator in order to be processed and confirmed with the chosen assignment. Internships are available in the Fall, Spring and Summer (tuition required) semesters and require a total of 120 hours in the field or 8-10 hours per week. Students may register for multiple internships but only one experience will be applied to their major requirements.
The environmental internships offered through EVS are focused in the following areas: Environmental Resources, Policy, Education and Sustainability. We currently coordinate with more than 70 organizations for student placement. More than 1/3 of these organizations have hired our students for either part-time or full-time positions. The following list represents a small sampling of some of our internship opportunities.
Environmental Resources
- NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
- US Army Corps of Engineers
- US Fish and Wildlife Service
- NYS Office of Parks and Recreation
- SPCA Wildlife Division
Policy
- NYS Attorney General's Office
- Buffalo Niagara Waterkeepers
- Lake Erie Watershed Protection Alliance
- Erie County Department of Environment and Planning
- WNY Land Conservancy
Environmental Education
- Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve
- Tifft Nature Preserve
- Buffalo Zoo
- Beaver Meadow Nature Center
- Earth Spirit Educational Services, Inc.
Environmental Sustainability
- WNY Sustainable Business Roundtable
- UB Sustainability Office
- Let's Goat Buffalo
- The English Gardener
- Groundwork Market Garden