Carleton University has unique advantages including its location in the national capital region, between the Rideau River and the historic Rideau Canal. In addition to easy access to specialized national collections of environmental information and federal government departments, the Ottawa-Carleton region hosts numerous head offices for environmental non-governmental organizations and businesses. The environmental studies program actively supports the involvement of students in environmental work experience through placements in the practicum course offered in the fourth year of the Honours program. Students are encouraged to seek out volunteer opportunities with government and non- governmental environmental agencies relevant to their area of interest. They are also encouraged to develop their own perspectives and approaches to environmental questions.