Environmental Science, M.S.

Today’s increasingly complex technological society has placed new demands on our understanding of human interaction with the environment. In fact, the need has never been greater for highly skilled scientists capable of developing basic data from which far-reaching decisions can be made regarding the intelligent use and protection of our natural environment. Recognizing these needs, the environmental science master’s program provides a thorough background in the biological and chemical fundamentals of natural environmental systems with specific areas of emphasis related to water and air resources, water and wastewater treatment, hazardous and toxic materials including nuclear wastes and basic processes governing the interaction of humans and the natural environment.

Admission Requirements

Students applying for admission to the environmental science program should have undergraduate majors in the physical or life sciences with strong backgrounds in chemistry and biology. Students with bachelor’s degrees in other scientific or engineering fields may need to complete certain preparatory coursework before starting the master of science program, and completion of such courses may require additional time. Any such requirements will be determined by the program chair and graduate faculty before admission. The prospective student will be advised of these requirements prior to acceptance. Applicants must submit Graduate Record Exam General Test scores for evaluation, a statement of interests, a résumé and three letters of recommendation.

General admission requirements and the process for applying are presented under Graduate Academic Information .

Degree Requirements

The master of science in environmental science requires the successful completion of 30 credit hours, including formal coursework, presentation of a graduate thesis seminar, and preparation and oral defense of a thesis. The thesis involves the completion of original research of publishable quality. The coursework shall include required and elective credits based on an approved program plan developed in conjunction with the faculty advisor. Included in the total are 12 credit hours of core environmental courses as listed below and, for the thesis option, six credit hours of thesis research under the supervision of a member of the graduate faculty. Equivalent coursework may be substituted for required core courses as recommended by the student’s advisor, approved by the program chair, and indicated on the program plan. Students are required to attend the graduate seminar. A nonthesis track is an option at the discretion of the advisor. The nonthesis track requires a minimum of 30 semester credit hours of coursework and a final program examination. The final program examination for the nonthesis track is comprised of both written and oral components.