Vermont Law and Graduate School: A Leader in Environmental Law and Sustainability

At Vermont Law and Graduate School, we are deeply committed to advancing environmental law and sustainability through education, advocacy, and action. Our environmental law program has been recognized as one of the top in the nation, offering students the tools and knowledge needed to tackle the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. As the world faces climate change, natural resource depletion, and environmental injustice, the role of skilled environmental lawyers and policymakers has never been more crucial.

From shaping policy on climate change to protecting endangered species, environmental law is at the heart of efforts to preserve our planet for future generations. VLGS equips students with the legal acumen to navigate complex environmental regulations, advocate for sustainable practices, and lead transformative change in government, nonprofit, and corporate sectors.

Our program stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, experienced faculty, and hands-on learning opportunities. With renowned experts in environmental law, energy law, and policy leading the way, our students benefit from a blend of rigorous academics and real-world experience. Through our environmental law clinics, externships, and partnerships with organizations at the forefront of environmental protection, VLGS provides an unmatched educational experience that prepares students to become leaders in the fight for a sustainable future.

Why Choose Us for Your Environmental Law Degree?

VLGS is a globally recognized leader in environmental law education, consistently ranked among the top programs in the United States. Accredited by the ABA and celebrated for its unwavering commitment to environmental justice and sustainability, our program offers students unparalleled opportunities to make a real difference in a field that is critically important to the future of our planet.

Expert Faculty and Practitioners

At VLGS, students learn from some of the most respected scholars and practitioners in the field of environmental law. Our faculty includes world-renowned legal experts, policymakers, and advocates who bring practical experience into the classroom. Whether addressing climate change litigation, natural resource management, or environmental policy reform, our professors are deeply involved in cutting-edge legal work, giving students unique insights and mentorship that extend beyond traditional academia.

Make a Real-World Impact

VLGS is not just about learning theory—it’s about making an impact from day one. Our students and faculty are actively involved in groundbreaking projects, cases, and research that influence environmental policy and law on a national and global scale. From protecting vulnerable ecosystems and combating climate change to advancing renewable energy initiatives, our community is dedicated to driving sustainable solutions to some of the world’s most pressing environmental issues.

Recent examples of our program’s impact include faculty-led litigation in key environmental cases, student participation in drafting critical environmental legislation, and innovative research through our renowned environmental law clinics. At VLGS, students don’t just study the law—they practice it, advocate for it, and shape the future of environmental policy.

By choosing Vermont Law and Graduate School, you’re not just joining a school; you’re joining a passionate community of leaders and changemakers committed to protecting the environment and building a sustainable future.

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Environmental Law Degree Structure and Curriculum

At VLGS, our Environmental Law degree is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the laws, policies, and practices needed to tackle today’s most pressing environmental challenges. Through a rigorous curriculum that combines foundational legal education with specialized courses and hands-on experience, students are equipped with the skills necessary to lead in the evolving field of environmental law.

Overview of Environmental Law Degree Courses

Our curriculum is structured to give students both a strong legal foundation and the flexibility to explore areas of personal interest through electives and specialized concentrations.

●     Foundational Courses: All students begin with essential courses in Constitutional Law, Civil Procedure, and other core areas of legal study. These courses provide the critical frameworks for understanding the legal structures that govern environmental protection and regulation.

●     Elective Courses: Students can tailor their studies by choosing from a wide variety of electives that dive deeper into specific environmental issues. Course options include Climate Change Law, Natural Resources Law, Energy Law, Water Law, Land Use, and International Environmental Law.

●     Specializations and Concentrations: Students may pursue specialized concentrations such as Energy Law, Animal Law, and Climate Law, allowing them to gain focused expertise in areas that are increasingly important in today’s legal and policy landscapes. Vermont Law also offers certificates and dual-degree options, including a JD/LLM in Environmental Law, for students seeking to deepen their knowledge and credentials.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

VLGS places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, ensuring that students not only study the law but also apply it in real-world contexts. These experiences allow students to gain practical skills and make meaningful contributions to the field even before they graduate.

●     Environmental Law Clinics: Our clinics offer hands-on experience in environmental litigation, policy development, and advocacy. Students work directly on real cases and projects, representing clients in environmental disputes, drafting legal briefs, or working on environmental justice initiatives. These experiences provide invaluable training in how to navigate complex environmental laws while making a tangible impact on the environment.

●     Externships: We offer a wide range of externship opportunities, placing students in government agencies, environmental non-governmental organizations (NGOs), corporate sustainability departments, and international institutions. These externships give students practical experience in shaping environmental policy, conducting regulatory compliance, and working on landmark environmental cases.

●     Study Abroad Programs: For students interested in global environmental issues, VLGS offers field courses and study abroad opportunities where they can engage with international environmental law and policy. These programs expose students to global sustainability challenges, international treaties, and diverse legal frameworks, providing a global perspective on environmental law.

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Distinguished Faculty

At VLGS, students studying environmental law are guided by a distinguished faculty comprised of renowned experts who are leaders in the field. Our faculty members bring real-world experience and cutting-edge scholarship to the classroom, empowering students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in environmental law and policy.

These professors, along with many others at VLGS, not only provide rigorous academic instruction but also serve as mentors and advocates for their students, ensuring a rich learning environment.Button: Meet Our Faculty (link: https://www.vermontlaw.edu/faculty)

Research Centers and Institutes

VLGS is home to several research centers dedicated to exploring key issues in environmental law and policy. These centers provide students with opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research and contribute to real-world solutions to environmental challenges.

●     Environmental Law Center (ELC): The ELC is the heart of VLGS’s environmental law program. It serves as a hub for environmental research, offering students access to workshops, seminars, and research projects focused on sustainability, climate change, natural resources law, and more.

●     Institute for Energy and the Environment (IEE): The IEE focuses on the intersection of law, energy, and environmental sustainability. Students working with the IEE engage in research on energy policy, renewable energy, and the transition to sustainable energy sources, often influencing policy decisions at local, national, and international levels.●     Center for Agriculture and Food Systems (CAFS): CAFS addresses the legal and policy issues surrounding sustainable agriculture, food security, and environmental protection. Students involved in CAFS research projects help shape policy and regulation related to food systems and the environment.

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Career Paths in Environmental Law: How VLGS Will Help You Succeed

VLGS prepares students for a wide range of rewarding career paths in environmental law. Whether you aspire to work in government, private practice, or the nonprofit sector, our program offers the resources, mentorship, and experience needed to achieve your goals. With a focus on both legal expertise and practical skills, VLGS graduates are well-equipped to drive meaningful change in diverse professional settings.

Career Paths in Environmental Law

●     Public Sector Opportunities
 Many of our graduates pursue careers with government agencies at the local, state, and federal levels. These roles involve developing and enforcing environmental regulations, working on policy initiatives, and advising on legal matters related to land use, water quality, climate change, and natural resource management. Graduates have found positions with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), state environmental agencies, and other governmental organizations focused on environmental protection.

●     Private Sector Opportunities
 Environmental law expertise is increasingly in demand within the private sector. Our graduates work in law firms representing clients in environmental compliance, litigation, and corporate sustainability practices. Some pursue careers with energy companies, advising on renewable energy projects, regulatory compliance, and environmental impact assessments. Others work in corporate legal departments, where they help companies navigate complex environmental regulations and promote sustainable practices.

●     Nonprofit and NGO Opportunities
 For those passionate about advocacy, nonprofit organizations and NGOs offer a fulfilling path. Our alumni are working with international and domestic environmental advocacy groups, such as the Sierra Club, Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). These roles involve policy development, legal advocacy, and litigation aimed at protecting ecosystems, addressing climate change, and promoting environmental justice.

Alumni Success Stories

VLGS is proud of its many accomplished alumni who have made significant contributions to environmental law and policy. Our graduates are working in prestigious positions across various sectors, including government, nonprofits, and the private sector.

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Career Services and Networking

VLGS is committed to helping students succeed in their careers through comprehensive career services and extensive networking opportunities.

●     Tailored Career Advising: Our career services team provides individualized guidance to help you identify and pursue your ideal career path. From resume building and interview preparation to job search strategies, we offer personalized support every step of the way.

●     Job Placement and Networking Events: VLGS boasts strong job placement rates for environmental law graduates. We host regular networking events, bringing together students, alumni, and employers in the environmental law field. These events provide invaluable opportunities to connect with potential employers, mentors, and peers.●     Environmental Law Job Fairs and Conferences: Students are encouraged to attend specialized environmental law job fairs and conferences, where they can meet with representatives from law firms, government agencies, and NGOs actively recruiting talent in the environmental sector.

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Student Life and Community at VLGS

Student life at VLGS extends beyond the classroom, offering a vibrant and supportive community of individuals passionate about environmental law and sustainability. Nestled in the picturesque town of South Royalton, our campus provides a peaceful, inspiring environment where students can immerse themselves in nature while working towards building a more sustainable world. Here, you’ll find a tight-knit community that values collaboration, diversity, and environmental advocacy, with endless opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Environmental Law Student Organizations

VLGS students are actively engaged in various student-run organizations and initiatives that reflect their passion for environmental law. These groups provide a platform to connect with like-minded peers, engage in real-world legal advocacy, and contribute to meaningful environmental projects.

●     Environmental Law Society: The Environmental Law Society (ELS) is one of the most active student groups on campus, organizing events, panels, and workshops that focus on current environmental issues. ELS members collaborate on local environmental projects, volunteer with advocacy groups, and work to raise awareness of environmental justice issues.

●     Student-Run Journals and Advocacy Groups: VLGS students contribute to journals such as the Vermont Journal of Environmental Law (VJEL), a student-run publication that addresses emerging topics in environmental law and policy. Additionally, students participate in advocacy groups that work on pressing environmental issues, both locally and globally.
●     Moot Court Competitions: For those interested in litigation and advocacy, VLGS offers opportunities to compete in national and international moot court competitions. These competitions provide students with invaluable experience in environmental litigation, advocacy, and policy-making.

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Campus Sustainability Initiatives

At VLGS, sustainability isn’t just something we teach—it’s something we live every day. Our campus serves as a model for sustainable practices, reflecting our deep commitment to environmental stewardship.

●     Green Buildings: VLGS has embraced green building principles in the design and operation of our facilities. Many of our buildings are energy-efficient and designed with sustainability in mind, featuring renewable energy sources and sustainable materials.

●     Waste Reduction and Sustainability Initiatives: We take pride in our efforts to reduce waste and promote sustainable practices on campus. From comprehensive recycling and composting programs to initiatives aimed at reducing single-use plastics, VLGS students and staff work together to minimize the campus’s environmental footprint.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

VLGS is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community where students from all backgrounds feel welcome and supported. We believe that a diverse student body enriches the educational experience and prepares future environmental lawyers to address the wide-ranging impacts of environmental law on different communities.

●     Inclusive Learning Environment: We are dedicated to creating a space where every student can thrive, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, socioeconomic status, or background. Our faculty and staff work closely with students to ensure that all voices are heard and valued.

●     Support for Underrepresented Groups: VLGS offers resources and support to ensure that students from underrepresented groups have the opportunities and mentorship they need to succeed. Through diversity initiatives, affinity groups, and events that celebrate different cultures and perspectives, we foster a sense of belonging for all students.

The Beauty of the Vermont Campus

The VLGS campus is set against the backdrop of rolling hills, forests, and rivers, offering a stunning natural environment that reflects our focus on environmental law. Located in South Royalton, Vermont, our campus is a haven for those who love the outdoors. Whether hiking, kayaking, or simply enjoying the beautiful surroundings, students are inspired by the natural world that we strive to protect through our work.

Contact Admissions and Schedule a Campus Tour

We are excited to connect with prospective students and provide all the information you need as you explore our programs in environmental law. Whether you have questions about the admissions process, want to learn more about our curriculum, or would like to experience our beautiful campus firsthand, our admissions team is here to help.

Contact Information

Our admissions team is ready to answer any questions you may have about applying to Vermont Law and Graduate School.

●     Phone: (802) 831-1239

●     Email: admiss@vermontlaw.edu

●     Address:
Vermont Law and Graduate School
Admissions Office
164 Chelsea Street
South Royalton, VT 05068

Feel free to reach out for personalized guidance on your application or for more information about our programs.

Campus Tours and Events

We invite you to experience the Vermont Law and Graduate School campus in person or virtually. Visiting our campus is a wonderful way to get a sense of the community, meet current students and faculty, and see firsthand why VLGS is a leader in environmental law education.

●     Campus Tours: Schedule an in-person campus tour to explore our beautiful, environmentally conscious campus in the heart of Vermont. You’ll have the opportunity to visit classrooms, the library, and our sustainability initiatives, as well as meet with admissions representatives.

●     Virtual Tours: If you can’t make it to campus, we also offer a virtual tour where you can explore our facilities and get a sense of campus life from anywhere in the world. Our admissions team is available to guide you through the tour and answer any questions you have along the way.

Visit VLGS

Upcoming Events

Check our Events Calendar for details on upcoming opportunities, including:

●     Webinars and Info Sessions: Join one of our virtual information sessions to hear from faculty, admissions staff, and current students about what makes VLGS unique.

●     Environmental Law Panels: Attend discussions led by our expert faculty and guest speakers who are leaders in the field of environmental law.

●     Open Houses: We host periodic open houses, both in-person and virtually, where you can meet fellow prospective students, learn about the application process, and get an inside look at life at VLGS.

To register for a campus tour, virtual event, or upcoming webinar, visit our Campus Tours and Events page or contact our admissions office for more information.

We look forward to welcoming you to Vermont Law and Graduate School and helping you take the next step toward a meaningful career in environmental law!