Interdisciplinary
The Master of Science in environmental studies is an interdisciplinary program of graduate coursework and research. Created in 1970, the program meets the needs of students looking for a broader academic experience than a traditional course of study can provide. The program gives students the flexibility to pursue coursework and research spanning several disciplines. Students' backgrounds run the gamut from business, humanities, and social sciences to physical and biological sciences and engineering. All share a high level of professional motivation and concern for the future of our environment.
Unique Structure
One of the few programs of its kind in the country, the environmental studies program at Ohio University is uniquely structured to accommodate students' needs. The program is developed around five areas of concentration: life sciences, physical and earth sciences, environmental archaeology, environmental policy and planning, or environmental monitoring.
Flexibility
Students may choose one of these areas of concentration or design an individual program geared to their specific career or research interests and needs.
Time Frame
The program takes two years to complete. The first year is devoted primarily to coursework and beginning research with supervision of an interdisciplinary research advisory committee comprising three selected faculty members. During the second year, the student may complete a research thesis, or may complete a non-thesis research project and comprehensive examinations.
Cooperative/Collaborative
Faculty and student research and service projects have brought regional and national recognition to the program and to Ohio University. In addition, the Environmental Studies program enjoys cooperative relations with local community organizations through consultation and shared projects. The staff at provides many applied research opportunities, and development and enhancement of real-world work skills, through formal and informal cooperative arrangements with Midwest Biodiversity Institute, Center for Applied Bioassessment and Biocriteria, U. S. Forest Service, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, and Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.
Diversity
The program attracts students from all parts of the United States and from abroad. In 1995, to further expand our interdisciplinary activities in applied and basic research and public policy, we joined with the , which is part of the Voinovich School for Leadership and Public Affairs. National and international recognition of the program's reputation is reflected in the impressive employment records of our graduates and their acceptance into doctoral programs at universities throughout the United States.
