Master of Science in Environmental Science & Policy

The M.S. in Environmental Science and Policy is coordinated by PSU’s Center for the Environment in partnership with the College of Graduate Studies. The program focuses on applied environmental science, policy implications, and science translation. The degree prepares students for careers as scientists and resource managers in agencies, government, non-profit organizations, consulting firms, and academia.

Key features unique to our M.S. in Environmental Science and Policy are:

1. Interdisciplinary focus. Environmental issues are as much social and economic issues as they are natural and physical science issues. To complement strengths in the sciences, student's programs of study include courses in GIS, remote sensing, science education, planning, statistics, journalism, sociology, graphic design, adventure education, tourism, or business. These course options prepare students to be better communicators of science in future employment, and to be well-informed about the relationships between science and policy.
   
2. Team research. Students have the option to conduct their research as part of a team with another graduate student or honors undergraduate. Student theses can be co-authored with another student, a program feature that is nationally unique to Plymouth. This team approach simulates skills useful for future employment and research.
   
3. External committee members serve on student thesis committees.  Students are encouraged to include faculty and professionals outside of PSU on their thesis committees, enhancing the rich, real world experience that provides future job contacts for students. Graduate students typically work off-campus during the summer in roles that combine research with work experience.
   
4. Science is translated for the layperson, regulator, or policy maker. Science translation is a skill required in virtually every future job, yet rarely emphasized in graduate school.
   
5. Combining work and research.  Our program allows part-time graduate students employed in an environmental field to create a thesis related to their work, which expedites completion of a program with minimal disruption of their professional lives.