“The community connection and career development the ESP department has provided me is unmatched. As a first generation student, the support I have received has extended beyond the class room providing me with a fulfilling and balanced life.”
— Michelle Radley ’21, BA, Environmental Science & Policy, MS Planning, Policy & Management, Planner – Town of Kennebunkport
“The supportive, collaborative and immersive educational experience found in the Environmental Science and Policy Department at USM is a launching pad for tackling solutions to today’s challenges. In addition to playing a key role in my career, I formed connections to professors and friends which enrich my life to this day.”
— Owen Blease ’18, BS Environmental Science & Policy, Park Manager IV – Sebago Lake State Park, Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
student teaching elementary kids

Accelerated Graduate Pathways

Students in our program may begin graduate studies in Policy, Planning & Management, Leadership Studies, or Law while still an undergraduate thus saving time and money.

Community

Our field immersion weekend is fun for the whole department, designed to teach basic environmental science field skills, and the first step in building community.

Internships

Students learn best by doing, so all ESP students are required to complete an internship.

Curriculum

ESP’s hands-on curriculum is designed to train future environmental science, policy, and planning professionals for employment or graduate training.

Research

Our faculty are active researchers providing many opportunities for students through fellowships, paid research positions, work study, research practicum for credit, and volunteering.

Careers

Students who enjoy a variety of academic subjects can really benefit from the interdisciplinary nature of environmental science & policy. Our graduates are represented in a wide variety of fields.