Environmental Science, M.S., General Concentration

M.S. Environmental Science

A minimum of 38 - 40 credits must be completed to earn the master of science in environmental science degree. The transfer of credit earned at other institutions is permitted subject to the Graduate School policy on transfer credit detailed elsewhere in this catalog.

The program consists of five required core courses plus additional courses that may be taken in a specified area of concentration. Note that students who do not choose to concentrate in a particular area are required to follow a plan of study determined in consultation with the program coordinator. Required courses cover common areas in environmental science, while the electives and concentration options enable students to study in a particular area of interest or in subjects with direct application to their current professional situations.

Students may elect to write a thesis as part of the program of study. Thesis preparation and submission must comply with the Graduate School policy on theses as well as specific departmental requirements. A thesis is recommended for students who wish to pursue doctoral training after graduation and for those with specific professional interests. For students who choose the thesis option, the selection of thesis courses is determined in consultation with the program coordinator and the thesis advisor, and includes ENVS 6698 - Thesis I  and ENVS 6699 - Thesis II  in lieu of other courses in the program.

Students should note that a number of courses in this program require weekend field trips, lab sessions, or acceptable alternatives. In addition, students should consult the program coordinator for advice on selection of appropriate courses and on assuring compliance with prerequisites.