Examine energy policy choices facing U.S. policymakers. The choices involve issues like subsidizing renewable fuels and allowing drilling on public lands. The challenges raise broader questions like what is the “right” price of energy and how to evaluate arguments regarding subsidies and tax credits.
Energy and Environment
Explore the economics, politics, and policies of pressing environmental and energy issues.
Lead the charge for sustainable energy.
Balance affordable energy with environmental stewardship. By studying in Pittsburgh, you’ll be at an epicenter of one of the biggest energy revolutions of the 21st century: the shale gas boom.
Areas of Focus
- Impact evaluation of energy and environmental policies
- Global energy markets and policies
- Natural resources governance and management
- Shale gas and fracking
- Food sources and sustainability
Internship Experiences
From policy to research to advocacy, you’ll experience what it’s like to pursue a career in the energy and environmental sectors. Prior to graduation, you’ll also complete a 300-hour internship at an approved site.
Previous Internship Sites
- United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
- World Wildlife Fund
- Data Application Lab
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Career Paths
Take your desire to protect the environment, create renewable energy sources, or advocate for responsible business practices, and turn it into a rewarding career that advances global sustainability.
Potential Workplaces
- Environmental protection agencies who work to protect human health and the environment
- NGOs dedicated to issues like clean air, land, and water
- Energy corporations
- Local, state, national, and international governments that make energy policy
Major Courses and Plans of Study
As an energy and environment major, you’ll choose from a range of core major courses tailored to your interests, as well as taking a set of required degree courses. To understand the different requirements for the MPA and MID degrees with this major, compare their plans of study.
View MPA plan of study View MID plan of studyFeatured Courses
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This course takes a global view of natural resource management and the rules that govern resource ownership. You’ll examine the political and administrative institutions that are responsible for managing resources like land, water, energy, and mineral resources, as well as protecting ecosystems and species.
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Explore methods to estimate the benefits, costs, and risks (economic, environmental, health, political) from various energy sources. Together we’ll discuss the growing recognition that investment in energy efficiency and renewable energy can mitigate national security concerns that stem from fossil fuel dependency.
View all fall 2019 courses
Faculty Experts
Work with faculty whose academic backgrounds, fieldwork, and research are at the nexus of environmental policy and practice.
View All FacultyCenters, Institutes, and Initiatives
Gain experience in research, teaching, and public service dedicated to the environmental and human impacts of the energy industry.
Explore allFeatured Opportunities
