Environmental Sciences - MS

The Masters of Science in Environmental Sciences (Thesis track) is designed to provide all students with a cross-disciplinary introduction to environmental science. Students are required to complete a Thesis project and all MS core course requirements which include taking one class in each of three categories: Environmental Chemistry/Soil and Water Science, Environmental Policy, Law & Economics, and Interdisciplinary Environmental Studies.

For MS Thesis Track EVS students there are two public defenses: 1) Thesis Proposal and 2) Thesis Defense of their completed research.  Each of these defenses is followed by an oral examination given by the MS Advisory Committee.  One Qualifying Examination is also required.

A MS level research scientist must have the ability to form a research hypothesis based on previous knowledge in the area, design the critical experiments necessary to test the hypothesis, analyze the experimental data, propose additional experiments based on the data, and come to a successful resolution of the problem. Passing all exams implies that the student has sufficient critical thinking skills to be able to solve any problems that might arise during the research. Students must also acquire sufficient knowledge in the research area and at least one area of Environmental Sciences. Thus, these examinations are important milestones for assessing whether the graduate student has the necessary knowledge and skills to advance toward completion of the Masters of Science Degree (Thesis) in Environmental Sciences. 

The Masters of Science in Environmental Sciences (Non-Thesis, Practicum) is designed to provide all students with a cross-disciplinary introduction to environmental science. Students are required to complete an Internship external to the university. Students are also required to complete all MS core course requirements which include taking one class in each of three categories: Environmental Chemistry/Soil and Water Science, Environmental Policy, Law & Economics, and Interdisciplinary Environmental Studies.