Master of Science Program

The Graduate Study Program is developed through discussions involving the graduate student, the student's advisor, and the student's Graduate Committee. Students must complete at least 45 graduate credits. A program of study must include a set of ESR graduate core courses totaling 12 credits. In addition to the ESR Graduate core courses, students complete courses that constitute an area of concentration (or track).

M.S. Degree Program Elements

1. ESR Graduate Core Courses

The required courses ESR 620, ESR 621 and ESR 622 have been replaced by the
Core Courses

The ESR graduate core is 12 credits. The purpose of the core is to foster interdisciplinary thinking among students and faculty members, to expose students to the breadth of environmental science, to introduce students to specific areas in environmental law and policy, to expose students to the concept of risk assessment, to teach research skills, and to introduce students to the history of environmental scholarship and thought.

ESR 507 Environmental Seminar (1 cr per quarter, 3 cr min)
(Seminars are given by graduate students and visiting researchers. Masters students will typically earn 1 cr for each quarter of attendance.)

2. Quantitative Analysis

A course in research methods, experimental design, or statistical analysis, is required to ensure students have sufficient skills for environmental research. Three credits of course work are required for the M.S. degree. Click HERE to review the list of courses accepted as meeting the quantitative methods requirement for all MS and MEM students.

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3. ESR Areas of Concentration (Tracks)

Students should consult with their advisor and graduate committee to form a coherent program of study. The "tracks" or "areas of concentration" lists are no longer being used.


4. Elective Courses

Elective courses are to be defined in the student's Program of Study, and agreed upon by the student and the advisory committee. Courses may be selected to provide additional background, to explore new areas, and to add depth to a scholastic program.

5. Thesis

A central purpose of the M.S. degree is to teach students the process of problem solving and research. A minimum of 6 cr are required. Students working toward the M.S. degree will be required to complete a thesis on original research leading to a thesis, that complies with standards established by the Office of Graduate Studies and Research.
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