Energy & the environment
This field looks at how societies manage and govern natural and environmental resources. The School of Public Affairs faculty study conflict, collaboration, and communication in areas such as water resource management, oil and gas extraction, climate change, and environmental disasters. Our alumni are leaders in environmental agencies and nonprofits, working on topics ranging from sustainable community practices to wildlife management to environmental justice.
Latest news on energy & the environment
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What is the Difference between Public Policy and Public Administration?Opens in a new window
Feb 28, 2023Look around you: From roads that link neighborhoods to city governments that introduce recycling programs, to people that raise funds to build playgrounds and concert venues, our world is shaped by civics and public affairs. And students who are interested in a career in these sectors can make big impacts in their communities. At CU Denver, students can choose an educational path that focuses on public administration or public affairs—but how do these degree choices differ?Opens in a new window Full story -
CU Denver’s School of Public Affairs: For 50 Years, a Place to Lead, Solve, and ChangeOpens in a new window
Feb 28, 2023This year, as CU Denver celebrates its own golden anniversary, SPA is also celebrating 50 years of education, research, and outreach that helps cities and communities operate better and more equitably.Opens in a new window Full story -
Sara Reynolds Talks About Her Lifelong Passion for Public Service
Nov 2, 2022 bySara Reynolds is the Vice President of Operations for the Colorado Oil & Gas Association. She oversees the daily operations of COGA, including financial management, membership development, programs and events, and community investments.Full story
Latest research
Assessing the Range and Nature of Concord and Conflict in Energy Infrastructure Sitings
Christopher M. Weible and Tanya Heikkila Kyu-Dong Park, Sharon Smolinski, Jill Yordy and Jongeun YouA Comparative Diagnosis of Policy Conflicts: Examining Unconventional Oil and Gas Development across the US
Professors Tanya Heikkila and Christopher Weible, University of Colorado Denver School of Public Affairs Jennifer Kagan and Jill Yordy
Alumni stories
Our School of Public Affairs alumni make a huge impact in Colorado and beyond! Read their stories.
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MPA alumna Rachlin Produces Video Series on Barriers and Best Approaches to Effective Environmental Protection
Jan 19, 2021 byFor her capstone project, Danielle Rachlin created an hour-long video series for young people featuring environmental enforcement experts. Her capstone experience inspired her to begin a van-life journey across all 50 states to create videos that explore public lands and environmental issues across the country.Full story -
An interview with Kristen Freaney on breaking into the outdoor industry, diversity and COVID-19
Apr 7, 2020 byEmma Sindelar (AMPA ’20) completed this interview with Kristen Freaney from the Outdoor Industry Association as part of her specialization in nonprofit management. Specializations are an opportunity for students in the accelerated Master of Public Administration program to customize their degree by completing a series of co-curricular activities in their area of interest. These activities are intended to deepen a student’s understanding of a content area and to provide opportunities for professional development.Full story -
An interview with Amanda Jameson, Community Relations Director at Big City Mountaineers Big City Mountaineers
Apr 1, 2020 byEmma Sindelar (AMPA ’20) completed this interview with Amanda Jameson from Big City Mountaineers, a Denver-based nonprofit, as part of her specialization in nonprofit management. Specializations are an opportunity for students in the accelerated Master of Public Administration program to customize their degree by completing a series of co-curricular activities in their area of interest. These activities are intended to deepen a student’s understanding of a content area and to provide opportunities for professional development.Full story