Department of Environmental Resources Engineering
Graduate Studies
ERE graduate students develop the knowledge to apply science and engineering to the conservation, restoration, holistic development, and improved utilization of the natural environment and its related resources. The ERE Department offers three graduate degrees: the Master of Professional Studies (MPS), the Master of Science (MS), and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
ERE graduate applicants select a research area that guides coursework and research.
These research areas may entail the general Environmental Resources Engineering area or one of three specific areas:
GRE Requirement
For MS and PhD, prospective applicants to the ERE program may request a waiver of the GRE scores by directly emailing the one ERE faculty member whom they intend to identify as a major professor. The body of the email should provide justification for the GRE waiver, with CV, transcripts, and application statement attached.
If the ERE faculty member decides a waiver should be granted, an applicant will be directed to submit a full, formal application for consideration. Applicants for the MS or PhD program who have not submitted GRE scores would be expected to have their application material provide information on past scholarship and future research plans. This should entail recommendation letters that detail the applicant’s specific intellectual contributions to prior projects or publications and a research statement that demonstrates familiarity with academic literature in the intended area of study and a capacity to develop research ideas.
*The GRE is not required for MPS applicants.
Difference Between Degree Options
For the M.S. degree, the graduate student typically tests established theory as part of a research thesis. For the Ph.D. degree, the graduate student typically tests and advances established theory as part of a research dissertation. For the M.P.S. degree, the graduate student typically completes a comprehensive project or practicum. Coursework supports the research. Research topics are selected by the student in consultation with their major professor and steering committee.