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Environmental Studies

To manage Earth's environment effectively, we must understand the processes that shape our planet's surface, control the chemistry of our air and water, and produce the resources on which we depend. At the same time, in order to implement scientific solutions to environmental problems, we must establish and execute policies that are politically, socially, and economically feasible. Designed to address this challenge, the School of Arts and Sciences part-time graduate programs in Environmental Sciences and Policy, and Energy Policy and Climate occupy a broad position centered at the juncture between science and policy. Graduates of the programs emerge with a combination of expertise in science and policy that enables them to assume key positions in public and private entities responsible for safeguarding our environmental future.

Many of our students are already employed in the environmental field but wish to enhance their training or move in new directions. Others are seeking to move into the arena of environmental science and policy.

Graduate Degree Programs

Master of Science in Environmental Sciences and Policy
The program offers a flexible curriculum that allows students to tailor their academic experience to suit their personal needs and interests. It provides a comfortable entree to relevant areas of science for students with little scientific background. Core coursework includes geology, hydrology, oceanography, meteorology, ecology, and policy making. Electives range across a spectrum from courses strongly oriented toward policy to ones focused more heavily on science, and they are selected by students with guidance but no constraints. Case studies and student projects receive special emphasis. All students earn an MS in Environmental Sciences and Policy. In addition, they may identify a concentration in one of the following specific areas:

• Environmental Monitoring and Analysis
• Ecological Management
• Environmental Management
• Environmental Planning

Master of Science in Energy Policy and Climate 
The program will prepare the next generation of interdisciplinary professionals to address climate issues and sustainable energy systems. Graduates will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the science related to a changing climate and global warming, and develop a comprehension of energy production, delivery, and consumption for both traditional systems and sustainable/renewable energy alternatives.

Certificate

Online Certificate in Geographic Information Systems
This fully online certificate offers students the ability to pursue opportunities arising from expanding demand for spatial data and systems expertise. The five course certificate program explores the principles and real-word applications of GIS in a convenient online course format.

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