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Experiential learning in the EPDM department provides a unique combination of classroom learning and real-world experiences. Students develop essential life and professional skills, lasting connections and network opportunities, and enjoy the rich environment in the Puget Sound region and beyond.

Many of our experiential learning courses focus on local instruction and issues, but many also explore far corners of the nation - and even the globe. A glance at our experiential learning offerings reveals many field school and summer research opportunities, environmentally centered internships or block programs (such as the Southwest Semester), and multiple quarter-credit courses that encourage students to directly involve themselves in the local community.

More information to come! See below for a quick glance at a few of the experiential learning programs we offer.

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Six people smiling with an award.
Environmental Challenge

The Environmental Challenge encourages students to tackle a real-world situation dealing with a contemporary environmental problem. Student teams work to design the most optimal solution, presented in conjunction with appropriate regulatory approaches and political and community resolution.

Environmental Challenge
Some people walking to water.
Field School in Conservation in Development

The Environmental Challenge encourages students to tackle a real-world situation dealing with a contemporary environmental problem. Student teams work to design the most optimal solution, presented in conjunction with appropriate regulatory approaches and political and community resolution.

One of the many field schools offered at Puget Sound, this course combines field-based learning in conservation and development with with research training in diverse cultural contexts. Students gain exposure to scientific and social scientific fieldwork through the framework of conservation and development.

Field School in Conservation in Development
Some trees and a mountain.
Sound Policy Institute

The Environmental Challenge encourages students to tackle a real-world situation dealing with a contemporary environmental problem. Student teams work to design the most optimal solution, presented in conjunction with appropriate regulatory approaches and political and community resolution.

One of the many field schools offered at Puget Sound, this course combines field-based learning in conservation and development with with research training in diverse cultural contexts. Students gain exposure to scientific and social scientific fieldwork through the framework of conservation and development.

The Sound Policy Institute builds the capacity of individuals and groups, both on campus and in the local community, to actively engage in environmental decision making. The institute provides opportunities for EPDM students to build community-based experiential learning opportunities into college coursework and for researching pressing environmental issues.

Sound Policy Institute