Programs

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 science (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.