Program Educational Objectives

The Environmental Science graduate program has established the following program educational objectives that are consistent with the mission of the University and that describe the expected accomplishments of graduates during the first several years following graduation. Environmental Science program graduates will:

1. Apply critical thinking skills in their profession to identify, evaluate, and develop science-based solutions to 21st century environmental issues and challenges;
2. Demonstrate and apply ethical, socially equitable, and sustainable practices and principles to issues in their profession; and
3. Advance in their careers by staying current in the field, working on interdisciplinary teams, and/or obtaining professional certifications.

To accomplish these program educational objectives, a variety of courses in the fields of environmental science and environmental engineering are offered with an emphasis on sustainability. Additional opportunities are available to broaden the educational experience through courses in other departments, independent study, and directed research resulting in a thesis. A broad base of theory and design is provided integrating current issues and professional practices.

Program Learning Outcomes

The Environmental Science graduate program has established the following student outcomes:

1. Apply scientific, mathematical, and sustainability principles to identify problems and analyze solutions in environmental science;
2. Critically assess, evaluate, and understand sustainability, ethics, and social justice in environmental science; and
3. Effectively communicate scientific principles related to the environment and sustainability.

Admission Requirements

All applicants must hold an undergraduate or higher-level degree and have completed the following courses:

• Calculus, at least one semester of college-level
• General Chemistry, at least one college-level course
• Life and Physical Science, totaling at least four college-level courses, which could include Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, or Physics.

Applicants with a non-Bachelor of Science undergraduate or postgraduate degree may be considered if the applicant has completed the above coursework prior to applying.

The department may require applicants who lack an adequate background in mathematics, chemistry, and/or science to take additional courses prior to being admitted into the program or continuing in the program. Additional admission requirements may be set by the department upon review of the applicant’s academic and professional preparation.

All applicants are required to submit:

• A completed application form and $50 application fee
• Official Transcripts of all colleges and universities attended
• A letter of intent (approximately 1.5 pages) describing the candidate’s background, career goals, and interest in the program
• Two letters of recommendation attesting to the candidate’s ability to succeed in the graduate program based on previous academic and/or professional performance

The GRE is not required for admission into the Environmental Science Master’s Program. International applicants should submit the items listed above plus the additional items required by LMU Graduate Admission.

Program Requirements

Students enrolled in this program must successfully complete the following:

• 30 semester hours with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 (“B”)
• Comprehensive Oral Examination (CIVL 690  or ENVS 690 ) or Masters Thesis Defense (CIVL 696  or ENVS 696 )
• Completion of 500-level courses with grade of B (3.0) or higher
• All core and elective requirements for the Environmental Science program or one of the Civil Engineering  program emphases (Water Resources Engineering or Environmental Engineering).