The graduate program in environmental sciences offers master of science (M.S.)
and doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degree options in air pollution science and technology, environmental
chemistry, environmental engineering, environmental microbiology, and pollution
prevention and control. In addition, a Ph.D.
degree option in exposure assessment (Ph.D. only) is offered jointly with the
Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. Within
these options, students specialize in the study of air pollution, airborne
microorganisms, aquatic biogeochemistry, bioremediation of environmental
contaminants, the chemistry and physics of aerosols and hydrosols,
environmental restoration, industrial hygiene, nonpoint source pollution,
occupational health, soil chemistry and microbiology, soil physics, solid and
hazardous waste management, surface and groundwater modeling, sustainable
engineering, waste gas treatment, and water and wastewater treatment.
Successful applicants are expected to have an undergraduate
science or engineering degree, including at least one year each of calculus and
chemistry, one semester of statistics, plus at least one year of other science
courses in, for example, biology, chemistry, physics, or geology.
The M.S. program offers two plans: (1) 24 credits of coursework, 6 credits of research, and a comprehensive oral examination that includes
defense of a thesis; or (2) 30 credits of coursework, submission of an
acceptable critical essay, and a comprehensive oral examination.
The Ph.D. degree requires a minimum of 72 credits beyond the
bachelor's degree, with 36 of those credits taken in coursework and 24 as
research credits. The remaining 12
credits may be in either courses or research. In addition, candidates must complete successfully
and defend a research dissertation.
The qualifying exam follows an oral, question-and-answer format.
Following admission to candidacy, students must submit a formal research
proposal to their dissertation committee. One year's residence, defined as
full-time status for one academic year consisting of two consecutive semesters, is normally
required.
