About the Adirondack Semester
The Adirondack Semester is a 15-credit domestic study program for undergraduates pursuing an off-campus experience that is enriching both academically and culturally. Students from any major who are committed to learn about environmental science, policy, economics and the human history and contemporary issues of the Adirondack Region are encouraged to apply.
The largest park in the contiguous states has been called one of the great experiments in large-scale conservation and regulated economic development. Our mission is to deliver a blend of traditional and experiential education where by students acquire “real world” skills and content knowledge to analyze complex problems related to environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
Students accepted in this program will learn from Clarkson faculty, all of whom are distinguished scholars who have worked in the Adirondacks. Students will be in session with Adirondack Park leaders, policy makers, residents and business owners and learn from peers in mentored team projects. Focus is on the Adirondack Park’s social and natural sciences: its expansive wilderness, residents, governing agencies, economics, organizations and businesses that shape policies and commerce.
Our Adirondack Center for Education and Sustainability in Saranac Lake is comprised of two houses and a separate classroom. On site as well is our teacher/resident assistant to support and supervise students. Students can attend a fall or spring semester that is comprised of 7 two-week modules plus a final week during which students present their comprehensive team research projects.
Demand for green collar jobs is growing and our semester in the park will provide professional advantages for students interested in becoming environmental scientists, environmental resource and conservation managers, lawyers, politicians, lobbyists and more.
