Master of Science in Environmental Studies
Program Goals
The goal of the Environmental Studies Master's Program is to train independent environmental professionals in the broadly interdisciplinary analytical skills necessary to solve environmental problems. It has been, and continues to be, our belief that a broad perspective is necessary to develop approaches that help preserve, conserve, protect, or enhance the environment for future generations of people and , as well, for all other species with which we share this planet.
Throughout the graduate program, students receive skills in communication and critical inquiry through fieldwork, data analysis, manuscript preparation, presentations within graduate seminars and departmental colloquiums, and interaction at professional meetings. Global perspectives (as well as local viewpoints) are integrated in all course work, and graduates are encouraged to serve their society by going through our graduate internship program and carrying out thesis research that addresses the needs of city, state, national, and international agencies.
Many of our graduate applicants come to us from different colleges having completed a major in another field (e.g., Biology, Geology, Anthropology) so they can make career change to become an environmental professional. Our mission is to help students identify environmental careers they can pursue and put together specialized multi/interdisciplinary advanced programs of study that incorporate the necessary tools and techniques needed for successful employment or further academic study.
The Environmental Studies graduate faculty maintains that "good environmental policy is based on strong science." Consequently in addition to the minimum units of science background required for acceptance to the program, most students are required to study additional natural science for their research projects, proposal, and thesis. Furthermore, most Environmental Studies theses require more fieldwork and a stronger research component than the typical social science library thesis.
More information on requirements for admission and degree completion can be found in the SJSU online catalog:
Requirements for Admission and Program Completion
Basic University requirements, along with our Departmental deadlines for admission can be found at the SJSU Graduate Studies web site, http://www.sjsu.edu/gradstudies/.
Peace Corps Credit
Returned Peace Corps volunteers who have environmental related service are encouraged to apply to the graduate program. Since your service may be credited toward your graduate degree, please indicate the nature of your Peace Corps service in your statement of purpose. For additional information about RPCVs in our Masters program, please e-mail (RPCV) Professor Gary Klee (kleegary@msn.com).
