IEC supports the educational initiatives of high school and college students. IEC provides summer internships for college students to get involved in water quality monitoring programs, including the Long Island Sound Study, the Volunteer Monitoring Program, and NJDEP Harbor Monitoring. These programs provide an excellent start in monitoring efforts, including field and laboratory experience. IEC offers mentorships for high school students looking to get involved in water science. The IEC staff mentor students by involving them in water quality research, including laboratory testing and field sampling.

In addition to supporting students, educational outreach is an important part of IEC's mission. IEC hosts laboratory tours for students of all ages, including elementary school through college. Staff also attend workshops, school visits, and student-oriented festivals in order to promote learning about water quality issues and environmental stewardship. Some recent examples include a school career fair in North Plainfield, New Jersey, and the SubMerge festival hosted by Hudson River Park Trust.