The Ph.D. in Environmental Science is an advanced interdisciplinary research-oriented program intended for students interested in developing a scientific understanding of the environment as well as its management. The research component is highly focused on the specific environment-related problem(s).

Program Objectives

The Ph.D. in Environmental Science is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and research experience to enter the workforce or academia. Environmental Science involves diverse areas that include chemistry, biological sciences, ecology as well as studies specific to air/water pollution and hazardous wastes. While we expect graduates of the program to possess diverse skills that meet their career interests, we expect that they will exhibit or engage in the following:

• Academic Excellence: Advanced understanding of chemistry and biology, as well as environmental regulations and other scientific issues related to the environment.
• Excellence in Research: The doctoral dissertation requires extensive work leading to publications. Ph.D. candidates will aspire to be at the forefront of an evolving field to solve problems that are highly relevant in present and future political environments.
• Professional Skills: The students develop professional skills by taking courses where the stress is on real-world environmental problems.

Learning Outcomes

Students in the Environmental Science Ph.D. program learn a wide range of topics that relate to the environmental sciences, such as environmental chemistry environmental analysis, environmental law, environmental microbiology, environmental toxicology and more. Alongside advanced theoretical and academic work, students develop research and analytical skills needed to be successful leaders in their chosen focus within the environmental science field.

Overall, we aim for our Ph.D. students in Environmental Science to gain a wide range of skills and knowledge, including the following learning outcomes:

• Advanced research leading to publications.
• Learn about natural processes and pollutants.
• Learn about environmental regulations and laws.
• Develop an understanding of global environmental issues including energy utilization and its connection to the environment.
• An ability to identify and utilize evidence-based resources and information.
• An ability to think critically and creatively about the environmental issues.
• Demonstrate problem-solving ability as an individual and as part of a team by using observation, experimentation and environmental regulations.
• Show ability in scientific research and writing using laboratory experiments related to environmental pollution issues and hazardous waste issues. Students should understand issues related toxicity.

Total Minimum Hours Required for PhD for students entering with Bachelor’s Degree (without MS degree) - 36 Credit Hours of 600/700-level Courses

Total Minimum Hours Required for PhD for students entering with MS degree - 12 Credit Hours of 700-level Courses