Students in a boat on the river, collecting samples

KU Environmental Studies

The Environmental Studies Program provides students with the tools they need to investigate environmental phenomena, including soil sampling and freshwater ecology to policy-making and social science.



Two students sharing a laptop both smiling as one points to the screen

Virtual Tour

Take a virtual tour of the program!

Virtual Tour

Alex Murray portrait

"I firmly believe that my experience in a multi-disciplinary undergrad program changed the game for me at KU."


Alex Murray

News from the Program

Photo cars on highway in traffic with road sign warning of extreme heat

Study: Faced with a hotter future, America needs better data and response plans

A new paper from researchers at the University of Kansas looks at extreme heat events in the United States, arguing a combination of inadequate data and unclear delineation of responsibility among government agencies leaves the nation unprepared for a hotter climate.

Students Help Lay Groundwork for Environmental Restoration Project

"Renewing the Blue Provides Real-World Experience for Field Ecology Class." This article appeared in the November 10th, 2025 KUEC News and Events
A brilliant orange sunset appears between a cloudy blue sky and tall green grass with white flowers

‘Prairie Prophecy’ documentary shares life, vision of KU alumnus Wes Jackson

A free screening of the documentary “Prairie Prophecy” on Nov. 21 will share the work of innovative scientist, farmer and co-founder of The Land Institute Wes Jackson. A panel discussion with University of Kansas scholars will follow the screening.
White man smiling

Two Views of the Wakarusa: Science Meets Art in the Field

Robert Hagen, recipient of the 2025 Excellence in Conservation and Environmental Education Award, reflects on the power of interdisciplinary learning in his blog post on the KACEE website, highlighting a KU field experience that blended ecological science with artistic expression.