Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.)
The Master of Professional Studies (MPS) degree is a 39 credit-hour experience aimed at professional applications of environmental knowledge.
1. Core
Required course work: A total of 21 credit hours with the following distribution: 9 credit hours of applied social sciences in the following categories: (i) environmental policy and regulation, and (ii) democratic processes. In addition, a total of 6 credit hours is required in environmental science and 6 in methods courses emphasizing applications of technical knowledge.
2. Area Of Study
A minimum of 12 credit hours of course work in the chosen area of study, as determined by the major professor and study area faculty. Students select a study area at the time of application for admission into the program. Four study areas are available to MPS students: (i) Environmental Policy and Democratic Processes, (ii) Environmental and Community Land Planning, (iii) Environmental Systems and Risk Management, and (iv) Water and Wetland Resource Studies.
3. Synthesis
Students select either an internship for 3-6 credit hours or prepare a synthesis paper (3 credit hours). All students must present a capstone seminar in their final semester. No terminal comprehensive examination is required.
Applicants with a minimum of three (3) years of post-baccalaureate, full-time professional experience directly related to the intended area of study may apply for 6 credit hours of advanced standing in the program, reducing their degree requirements to 33 credit hours. Partial credit for experience cannot be awarded. When awarded for prior work experience, the 6 credit hours are applied toward the synthesis requirement.