Program Overview
Are you passionate about preserving the world for future generations? Join our Environmental Studies Institute to explore the foundational principles of environmental studies and sustainability. Discover how ecological concepts span across the natural and social sciences, with topics such as human population growth, energy resources, land and food resources, water resources, air pollution, global climate change, and human health and toxicology. We will also review ecology and species diversity, highlighting sustainability as a unifying theme.
Throughout the course, hands-on projects and interactive lectures will help you gain practical skills in environmental problem-solving. You will develop a deeper understanding of the connections within ecosystems, fostering a greater appreciation for the planet and equipping you to become a responsible steward.
Designed for students who are new to environmental studies, this program will empower you to make meaningful impacts in your community and beyond. Join us to ignite a lifelong passion for environmental advocacy and become part of a dynamic, supportive community committed to preserving our planet.
Dates
The Environmental Studies Institute is a two-week, residential program offered from July 12-25, 2026.
Eligibility
To be eligible to apply for the Environmental Studies Institute, you should:
- Be a current high school student graduating in 2029, 2028, or 2027.
- Have completed one year of high school biology by the start of the program. No prior coursework in environmental studies is required. This institute is designed specifically for students new to the field of environmental studies. For students with previous experience in environmental studies, we recommend considering the Advanced Inquiry Institute.
We are looking for mature, academically motivated individuals enrolled in challenging curriculum which may include honors, advanced placement, and International Baccalaureate courses, if offered by their high schools. Individuals who are collaborative, intellectually curious, and creative thinkers thrive in our program.
Fees and Scholarships
The 2026 program fee for the Environmental Studies Institute is $3,985 which includes all program activities, housing, and meals. Need-based scholarship assistance is available. Children of WashU employees and returning participants are eligible for a 10% discount. Visit Fees & Scholarships to learn more about fees, need-based scholarships, and discounts.
Grading and Evaluation
Our summer institutes are ideal for individuals who want to experience college-level curriculum without the pressure of a letter grade. Class sizes are small (typically between 15-20 participants) to ensure personalized feedback from instructors. These programs are designed for participants to ask questions, collaborate with peers, and consider new ideas.
Although summer institutes are noncredit, they are rigorous. Participants are evaluated based on attendance and engagement in class activities, completion of assignments, quality of work produced, as well as their ability to adhere to academic integrity standards and program policies. Noncredit programs do not issue a traditional letter grade (A, B, C, D, F). Instead, you will receive an "L" for successful completion/audit or a "Z" for unsuccessful completion/audit.
Because summer institutes are noncredit, no transferable credit is earned. At the end of the program, participants may request a transcript of noncredit course work. No certificates are issued for these programs.
Acceptance and participation in summer institute course work and activities does not imply or guarantee acceptance into a degree program at WashU. For questions about the undergraduate admission process, please contact Undergraduate Admissions.
