The graduate program in environmental science is an interdisciplinary program with
core courses taught by biologists, geologists, and chemists. The program focuses on
the most pressing environmental issues and problems currently faced by metropolitan
areas.
Students in the environmental science master’s program select one of the following
areas of concentration, based on work force needs identified by regional environmental
professionals.
You’ll complete 30 units of graduate work, including core courses and electives appropriate
to your concentration. View admission and degree requirements in the Graduate Catalog and find approved electives for each concentration.
Biological Resources Management Concentration
This concentration is designed for students who are interested in understanding and
managing biological resources of natural and socio-ecological systems. Life science
courses will prepare you for careers in environmental protection, wildlife conservation,
natural resource management or ecosystem services assessment.
Environmental Spatial Analysis Concentration
This concentration is for students interested in understanding the theory, methods
and technologies associated with using spatial data to analyze and manage environmental
problems and processes. You’ll gain advanced skills in GIS and remote sensing.
Water Resources Management and Assessment Concentration
This concentration is designed for students who are interested in managing water quality
and understanding related topics, including hydrology, geochemistry, limnology, and
water resource protection and policy. If your career goals relate to water pollution,
aquatic toxicology or other water-related regulatory issues, this concentration is
a good choice.
Wetlands Assessment and Management Concentration
Choose this concentration if you are interested in identifying, understanding and
managing ecosystem services provided by wetlands. Students in this concentration go
on to careers in wetland delineation, restoration, and management.
Thesis and Non-Thesis Options
Thesis Track
The thesis track is a more traditional master’s program. Students in this track select
a faculty adviser and develop an original research project, with the goal of producing
one or more peer-reviewed publications. If you are interested in the thesis track,
please contact one of our faculty to discuss available projects prior to applying to the program.
Non-thesis Track
The non-thesis track is an attractive option if you are a working professional looking
to further your career. Evening classes are offered, so you can attend while continuing
to work. Non-thesis students complete their studies with a semester-long Research
Practicum course. Developing and writing a research practicum paper involves synthesis
of current thought from a variety of disciplines on an important environmental issue
or problem. All students completing a non-thesis master’s degree demonstrate that
they are able to develop and defend such a document.
Internships and Research Opportunities
Through collaborations with local and regional environmental agencies and a number
of international institutions, you’ll gain access to a range of internship and thesis
research opportunities. National Science Foundation funded projects and regional laboratories provide unique learning experiences for
both thesis and non-thesis students. Many courses are taught by experts from the private
sector and government who provide first-hand counsel and guidance.