Master of Environmental Science and Management
Curriculum
Students complete a minimum of 36 credits of course work consisting of 21-25 credits of core courses, which include at least 9 credits in natural sciences, at least 6 credits in social sciences, and at least 3 credits in quantitative methods.
In addition, at least 2 credits of graduate seminar (typically EVS 501 and EVS 502) are required as well as a culminating experience for 3 credits that can take the form of an internship (EVS 597) with an environmental agency, nongovernmental agency, or private firm; an independent research project (EVS 598) that results in a substantial, high-quality, written report; or successful completion of EVS 505 (Environmental Leadership in Practice). The remaining 6-10 credits consist of electives.
Students can choose graduate level classes from any academic department on campus to customize a program of study that meets individual learning goals. The list of Popular MESM Classes highlights the variety of offerings.
The MESM program is normally completed in 16-21 months of full-time study. Part-time students are welcome, but require longer to complete the curriculum.
Course requirements unique to each of the specializations:
Conservation biology
12-16 credits in natural sciences, including at least 3 credits in plant and animal biology, at least 3 credits in ecology, and at least 3 credits in biodiversity analysis and management.
Earth and hydrologic science
12-16 credits in natural sciences from any or all of the following categories: earth surface processes, hydrology, solid earth materials and processes, or spatial analysis and remote sensing.
Environmental Planning and Design
13 credits in planning and design including at least 9 credits in planning and 4 credits of design studio.
Environmental communication
9 social science credits in communication or public engagement related to environmental science.
Environmental policy and management
9 credits in social sciences from disciplines including policy, planning, economics, and research methods.
Remote sensing and spatial analysis
12-16 credits in natural sciences, including at least 9 credits in remote sensing and spatial analysis, and 0-7 credits in earth and ecosystem science.
Sustainable systems
12-16 credits in natural sciences, including at least 3 credits in natural ecosystems and at least 3 credits in managed ecosystems.
Wetland, watershed, and ecosystem science
12-16 credits in natural sciences, including at least 3 credits in each of the following topics watersheds, wetlands, and ecosystems plus 3 credits in earth science, soils, or spatial analysis.