The Policy, Planning, Law and Society (PPLS) track focuses on developing understanding and problem-solving skills relevant to the interaction between human and natural systems.
"What makes PPLS unique is learning to effect the environment through policy, planning, and influencing human behavior." —Prof. Kristen Nelson
A Faculty Perspective
A Student's Perspective
Students study concepts, issues, and problem solving approaches that address the policy, legal, economic, political, planning, and social aspects of environment and natural resource management. This study includes ethics and conflict management, and emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach for examining problems and developing effective and innovative solutions. Problems considered include sustainable land use planning, resource conservation and management, law, and environmental protection at a range of political levels and spatial scales.
Students will learn how to integrate knowledge from the physical, biological, and social sciences in order to develop policy and planning alternatives and appropriate strategies to provide solutions to complex problems. Students can also develop a specialized background in environmental law, policy analysis, planning, and conflict management.
Sample Four-Year Plan
Review this sample four-year plan for the PPLS track to learn one of several possible ways to complete this degree. You can also use APAS to make your customized plan, and work with your academic adviser to ensure that you are on track to graduate on time.
A contract is required for this track of the ESPM major. Contract courses give students the flexibility to tailor their major to their individual interests and career goals. Learn more and find instructions on the Contract Information and Process page.