Plattsburgh State University is a public liberal arts university, located in Plattsburgh, New York, in the Champlain Valley of northeastern New York. Founded in 1889, it functioned as a teacher’s college and nursing school. PSU now maintains these sections as separate departments. PSU holds the distinction of being the first facility in the SUNY (State University of New York) system to offer an environmental studies program. It also is well-known for its pioneering environmental science program. Academic programs are offered in more than 60 areas of study, such as accounting, biochemistry, Canadian studies, cytotechnology, management, medical technology, political science, and sociology. Internships and study-abroad programs form part of the curriculum. The largest section in the university is Arts and Science, which includes more than 250 full- and part-time educators in 23 academic departments and centers. Business and economics, health and human services, and general education are the other important sections in the university. Specialties include an art museum with a large open-air sculpture park and artworks by such well-known artists as Picasso and Rodin. The Center for Earth and Environmental Science, an interdisciplinary unit at PSU, organizes the geology, geography, and environmental science programs. Research facilities of CEES include the William H. Miner Agricultural Research Institute and Lake Champlain Research Institute. Founded in 1951, the Miner Institute offers quality research, education, and demonstration programs, while the Lake Champlain Institute, established in 1997, strives to promote undergraduate student research. Spread over 256 acres, Plattsburgh State University provides full access to research, library, and computer facilities. It also offers student support services and such special programs as the Educational Opportunity Program and the Honors Program. The Career Development Center at PSU assists students in determining their career path.