Organizations that stress diversifying their workforce are finding that few non-white applicants are available. However, a more reasonable balance seems to have been established in terms of gender over the last ten years. Strategies Consider the requirement of a focus or concentration as part of the program. Encourage students to become double majors or develop a minor. Require a rigorous student project or thesis to demonstrate competency, content, and focus of the student's undergraduate program.
Strategies Begin communicating and networking with local enviromenental employers.
Identification of environmental employers and the beginning of formal and informal relationships will require a long-term commitment from the environmental studies program, but it will begin to pay off in increased internship and job opportunities for students. Stress the importance of locating a good internship to students early in the undergraduate program. Assign one person to oversee and coordinate internships. Promote the use of a senior thesis or project not only for helping in the academic development of a student but also in helping prospective employers gain a better understanding of the student's educational background. Enlist the help of environmental employers in supervising projects and theses.