phd science and environmental education

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Science and Environmental Education

Phd in teaching and learning concentration.

Prepare for a career as a researcher or teacher educator, and learn to conduct research in science and environmental education at the elementary, secondary, and post-secondary levels. You will work closely with faculty on all aspects of the research process.

What You'll Learn

• Strategies for designing and analyzing research studies in science and environmental education
• Qualitative and quantitative research methods
• Current issues in science pedagogy, teacher education, curriculum, and integration of educational technology

Your Academic Experience

Research methods courses.

Take courses designed to prepare you for all aspects of the research process, including developing and designing a research proposal, implementing a research agenda, and disseminating findings. You will gain mastery of a wide range of qualitative and quantitative research methods. 

A Community of Scholars

As a graduate student in our program, you will be accepted into a supportive learning community. Our faculty work closely with College of Arts and Science faculty in math and science, so you'll have opportunities to draw on content knowledge and pedagogical expertise from a diverse range of sources.

Collaborate with Faculty on Shared Research Interests

Our faculty are conducting research on pressing contemporary issues in science education. Faculty interests include:

• The role of inquiry in science classrooms
• Student understandings of science and how this understanding should shape teaching
• The role of co-generative dialogue, student voice, and democratic practice in enhancing student engagement with science
• The use of technology in science classrooms; professional development of science teachers, teacher-educators, researchers, and scientifically knowledgeable administrators
• Improving access and success of low-income minority students in science education and careers
• Formal and non-formal education for environmental awareness and conservation
• Multiple ways of knowing environment and nature

You'll graduate ready to take on roles including:

• Researcher or teacher educator in science and environmental education in colleges and universities
• Science education specialist in governmental agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and multinational corporations

Raul P. Lejano

Clinical Professor of Environmental Education and Director of The Wallerstein Collaborative for Urban Environmental Education & Sustainability

Catherine Milne

Professor of science education.

Robert Wallace

Research assistant professor of science education.

Overview of the PhD Program

For specific information on the Environmental Science and Engineering PhD program, see the navigation links to the right. 

What follows on this page is an overview of all Ph.D. programs at the School; additional information and guidance can be found on the  Graduate Policies  pages. 

General Ph.D. Requirements

• 10 semester-long graduate courses, including at least 8 disciplinary.   At least 5 of the 10 should be graduate-level SEAS "technical" courses (or FAS graduate-level technical courses taught by SEAS faculty), not including seminar/reading/project courses.  Undergraduate-level courses cannot be used.  For details on course requirements, see the school's overall PhD course requirements  and the individual program pages linked therein.
• Program Plan (i.e., the set of courses to be used towards the degree) approval by the  Committee on Higher Degrees  (CHD).
• Minimum full-time academic residency of two years .
• Serve as a Teaching Fellow (TF) in one semester of the second year.
• Oral Qualifying Examination Preparation in the major field is evaluated in an oral examination by a qualifying committee. The examination has the dual purpose of verifying the adequacy of the student's preparation for undertaking research in a chosen field and of assessing the student's ability to synthesize knowledge already acquired. For details on arranging your Qualifying Exam, see the exam policies and the individual program pages linked therein.
• Committee Meetings : PhD students' research committees meet according to the guidelines in each area's "Committee Meetings" listing.  For details see the "G3+ Committee Meetings" section of the Policies of the CHD  and the individual program pages linked therein.
• Final Oral Examination (Defense) This public examination devoted to the field of the dissertation is conducted by the student's research committee. It includes, but is not restricted to, a defense of the dissertation itself.  For details of arranging your final oral exam see the  Ph.D. Timeline  page.
• Dissertation Upon successful completion of the qualifying examination, a committee chaired by the research supervisor is constituted to oversee the dissertation research. The dissertation must, in the judgment of the research committee, meet the standards of significant and original research.

Optional additions to the Ph.D. program

Harvard PhD students may choose to pursue these additional aspects:

• a Secondary Field (which is similar to a "minor" subject area).  SEAS offers PhD Secondary Field programs in  Data Science and in  Computational Science and Engineering .   GSAS  lists  secondary fields offered by other programs.
• a Master of Science (S.M.) degree conferred  en route to the Ph.D in one of several of SEAS's subject areas.  For details see here .
• a Teaching Certificate awarded by the Derek Bok Center for Teaching and Learning .

SEAS PhD students may apply to participate in the  Health Sciences and Technology graduate program  with Harvard Medical School and MIT.  Please check with the HST program for details on eligibility (e.g., only students in their G1 year may apply) and the application process.

In Environmental Science & Engineering

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• Doctor of Philosophy — PhD

The doctoral program cultivates scholars who are equipped to understand and develop solutions to complex environmental challenges.

On This Page

Program overview.

Doctoral students work with the school’s world-renowned faculty to collaboratively design cutting-edge research projects that engage them in scientific discovery, policy, public discourse, and action.  The five-year program is fully funded and independent of any faculty research grants, allowing doctoral students the intellectual freedom to explore the environmental issues that most inspire them. Students also have access to a broad array of resources across Yale University and its professional and graduate schools, including its faculty and library system.  Graduates complete the doctoral program having gained disciplinary depth and strong leadership skills that enable success in any career path — academic, government research, policy, nonprofits, and the private sector.

Doctoral students at YSE receive five years of guaranteed funding, independent of any faculty research grants, allowing doctoral students the intellectual freedom to explore the environmental issues that most inspire them.

Doctoral Program Handbook

Combined Doctoral Degree Programs

Combined PhD — Yale Anthropology Combined PhD — New York Botanical Garden

Degree Awarded

Doctor of Philosophy — PhD

Program Duration

Required credit hours, additional program options.

• Combined PhD — Yale Anthropology
• Combined PhD — NY Botanical Garden

Why YSE Doctoral Programs?

Research Independence and Funding

Doctoral students at YSE receive five years of guaranteed funding , independent of any faculty research grants, allowing doctoral students the intellectual freedom to explore the environmental issues that most inspire them.

• Current Dissertation Titles
• Funding Information

Acclaimed Faculty

Working closely with some of the top experts in their fields is one of the advantages of a YSE doctoral degree. Our faculty are committed to mentoring the next generation of environmental leaders to tackle the world’s most urgent problems.

• YSE Faculty

Student and Alumni Spotlights

Tracking Environmental and Infrastructure Damage in Ukraine

As co-leader of Black Marble, NASA’s light dataset, Eleanor Stokes '18 PhD is currently tracking the effects of Russian military strikes on Ukraine’s infrastructure and climate-induced natural disasters across the world. NASA’s Black Marble science team, which uses data from the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite aboard NASA’s Suomi NPP satellite spacecraft  to map  disaster impacts in vulnerable communities , was awarded the 2020 NASA Group Achievement Award for helping realize the vision of the  NASA-ESA-JAXA COVID dashboard  and enabling international partnership in a time of need.  “Humanity is facing major global risks from extreme weather and rising sea levels,” Stokes says. “It’s very important to have a satellite record that can speak to the human piece of the puzzle.

Redefining Human-Wildlife Conflict

In the Tibetan Plateau, Yufang Gao ’14 MESc, ’23 PhD interviews, observes, and travels with Tibetan herders and Buddhist monks. He sets up camera traps and collects scat to analyze the diet of snow leopards. And he has hiked a mountainside 15,000 feet above sea level — all in pursuit of data for his dissertation focused on the quest for harmonious coexistence between people and large carnivores. What is needed for human-wildlife coexistence is a different perspective about conflict, Gao says. “Conflict,” he has found, “is part of coexistence.”

• Master of Environmental Science - MESc

Tracking Forest Inventory

Richard Guldin ’76 MFS, ’79 PhD  has helped reinvent the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program by integrating new sampling designs, field procedures, and innovative software to create an annual inventory that has become a global model. His work earned him the Society of American Foresters’ Sir William Schlich Award.

• Master of Forest Science — MFS

Contact the Doctoral Program

Elisabeth Barsa is the contact for students interested in the YSE doctoral program.

Elisabeth Barsa

Doctoral Program Coordinator

Admissions and Funding Information

Our doctoral program offers scholars from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to pursue a highly individualized area of inquiry under the mentorship of a YSE faculty member. The research conducted by YSE PhD candidates spans global and disciplinary boundaries — and what’s more, it is fully funded.

Doctoral students at YSE receive 5 years of guaranteed funding. Funding packages consist of a stipend , full tuition coverage, and health insurance. For more information on funding and benefits for doctoral students at Yale, visit the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences' stipend payments and financial support pages.

Apply to the PhD Program

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• Doctoral Admissions

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Environmental Health

Offered by: Department of Environmental Health and Engineering

Onsite | Full-Time | 5 years

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About the PhD in Environmental Health Program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree program is a full-time degree program that offers a unique interdisciplinary learning experience where the course of study is individually tailored based on the student’s interest in understanding and finding solutions to pressing problems in environmental health and engineering.

The goal of PhD training in EHE is to prepare graduates to engage in scholarship and professional practice that creates new knowledge, use research to transform practice and improve the health of the environment and the public, and effectively communicate research findings to the public. The program requires didactic coursework followed by an average of four to five years of research towards a doctoral dissertation (also referred to as a thesis on official forms and committees).

Training is offered through a core curriculum that is required of all PhD students in the Department with the addition of track/program-specific requirements and focused courses in specialized areas.

Students are expected to tailor their curricula, working with their advisers to create a comprehensive plan of study and research. PhD thesis must be based on original research, worthy of publication, and approved by the Department and a committee of thesis (dissertation) readers. PhD students must also be engaged in primary data collection as a component of their dissertation research or embedded in other research during their training here.

Our programs are offered in the  Whiting School of Engineering , on the Homewood campus (WSE) and the  Bloomberg School of Public Health  (BSPH) East Baltimore campus. Students in all of our programs have the unique opportunity to take classes on both the Homewood and East Baltimore campuses in order to complete their degree requirements.

Students in the PhD in Environmental Health  program select from one of four tracks:

Track in Exposure Sciences and Environmental Epidemiology (ESEE)

Track in Environmental Sustainability, Resilience, and Health (ESRH)

Track in Health Security (HS)

Track in Toxicology, Physiology, and Molecular Mechanisms (TPMM)

PhD in Environmental Health Program Highlights

Fully funded.

PhD students are guaranteed tuition, health insurance, and stipend coverage for 5 years. Health Security students receive four years of funding.

Multidisciplinary

Opportunities to work across departments in the Schools of Public Health, Engineering, and more

Write and Publish

Help with academic writing and grant proposals embedded into coursework, with opportunities to learn from published faculty and peers

Teaching Training

Teaching assistantships, training, and support for learning to teach, and opportunities for paid TA positions as well

What Can You Do With a Graduate Degree In Environmental Health?

Sample careers.

• Assistant Professor
• Senior Consultant
• Data Scientist
• EnvironmentalToxicologist
• Epidemiologist
• Postdoctoral Fellow

Curriculum for the PhD in Environmental Health

Browse an overview of the requirements for this PhD program in the JHU  Academic Catalogue .

Admissions Requirements

For the general admissions requirements see our How to Apply page.

Standardized Test Scores

Standardized test scores are  not required and not reviewed  for this program. If you have taken a standardized test such as the GRE, GMAT, or MCAT and want to submit your scores, please note that they will not be used as a metric during the application review.  Applications will be reviewed holistically based on all required application components.

Vivien Thomas PhD Scholars

The  Vivien Thomas Scholars Initiative (VTSI)  is an endowed fellowship program at Johns Hopkins for PhD students in STEM fields. It provides full tuition, stipend, and benefits while also providing targeted mentoring, networking, community, and professional development opportunities. Students who have attended a historically Black college and university (HBCU) or other minority serving institution (MSI) for undergraduate study are eligible to apply. To be considered for the VTSI, you will need to submit a SOPHAS application, VTSI supplementary materials, and all supporting documents (letters, transcripts, and test scores) by December 1 , 202 3 . VTSI applicants are eligible for an application fee waiver , but the fee waiver must be requested by November 15, 202 3 and prior to submission of the SOPHAS application.

Faculty Advisers

The following faculty may be willing to advise PhD students. If you identify a faculty member that you want to work with who is not on this list, we encourage you to ask them about their availability.

Peter DeCarlo

Peter studies the chemical composition of gas particles in the air to improve our understanding of climate, air quality, and health impacts of pollutants.

Paul Ferraro

Paul ­ is a Bloomberg Distinguished Professor with joint appointments in the Department of Environmental Health and Engineering and the Carey Business School. He is known for his research on behavioral economics and the design and estimation of impacts of environmental programs.

Ciaran Harman

Ciaran, an associate professor of landscape hydrology and Russell Croft Faculty Scholar, studies how the structure of landscapes controls the movement of water from rainfall to streams, and how that structure evolves over time.

Thomas Hartung

Thomas Hartung, MD, PhD, steers the revolution in toxicology to move away from 50+ year-old animal tests to organoid cultures and the use of artificial intelligence.

Scot Miller

Scot Miller combines satellite data and statistics to understand greenhouse gas emissions across the globe.

Roni A. Neff

Roni Neff, PhD '06, ScM, researches ways to cut food waste and address climate change through more resilient, equitable, and healthy food systems.

Carsten Prasse

Carsten's research focuses on the occurrence and fate of organic contaminants in the urban water cycle and their impact on environmental and human health.

All full-time PhD students will receive the following support for the first five years of the program: full tuition, stipend, individual health insurance, University Health Services clinic fee, vision insurance, and dental insurance.

Need-Based Relocation Grants Students who  are admitted to PhD programs at JHU   starting in Fall 2023 or beyond can apply to receive a $1500 need-based grant to offset the costs of relocating to be able to attend JHU.   These grants provide funding to a portion of incoming students who, without this money, may otherwise not be able to afford to relocate to JHU for their PhD program. This is not a merit-based grant. Applications will be evaluated solely based on financial need.  View more information about the need-based relocation grants for PhD students .

Questions about the program? We're happy to help. [email protected]

University of California, Santa Barbara

Become a leader in solving environmental problems through interdisciplinary research

Phd in environmental science and management.

Bren’s PhD in Environmental Science and Management is a doctoral program designed to develop the broad knowledge, analytical powers, technical skills, and innovative thinking required to be a leader in your field.

As a Bren doctoral student you have the opportunity to engage in research that crosses disciplines, and to take courses at the Bren School or in other renowned UCSB departments, such as geography, ecology, earth science, economics, political science, and marine biology. Choose from a research track in either Natural Sciences or Engineering, or in Social Sciences.

As a student in the Bren PhD program, you'll benefit from the school’s superb facilities, smaller size, close faculty mentorship, academic excellence, and opportunities to work across disciplines.

The Bren PhD program is mentorship-based; you will work closely with at least one Bren professor in their area of expertise. Your sponsor serves as your student advisor and the chair of your PhD committee. This faculty sponsor is also responsible for providing intellectual support and academic and career advice, as well as assisting you to obtain financial support from Graduate Student Researcher positions, Teaching Assistant positions, fellowships, and other areas of support.

The PhD program is intended to be full-time and courses are offered at the UC Santa Barbara campus. Currently, the Bren School does not offer any online degree options. 

Your future as a leader in solving environmental problems begins with being prepared for admission to the PhD in Environmental Science and Management at the Bren School. The admissions team is here to answer your questions about eligibility, the application process, research, faculty sponsorship, and how to choose your path in a PhD program in environmental science and management.

The Bren PhD program academic requirements are highly individualized for your mentorship-based experience. The PhD in Environmental Science and Management is a research degree awarded upon demonstration of academic excellence and performance of original research. There is no specific unit requirement, though there are required interdisciplinary seminar courses that enrich your experience and help you complete research with integrity. For students also completing an optional PhD emphasis or certificate, additional requirements and coursework may apply.

PhD Emphases & Certificates

Enhance your PhD experience by adding an optional PhD emphasis and/or certificate. Students have several opportunities for: 

Climate Science and Climate Change

Develop a broader understanding of the physical principles governing climate on Earth, climate changes associated with natural variability and anthropogenic forcings, and the impacts of climate change on the environment and society.

Economics and Environmental Science

Acquire a deep and expert knowledge of economics and the complex connections between the environment and economics.

Environment and Society

Receive additional training and mentorship in interdisciplinary studies such as global political economics, social justice, environmental politics, and population ecology.

Information Technology and Society

Explore further themes of the societal implications of information technology, including studies in media, science education and instruction, and data visualization.

Management Practice

Gain an in-depth understanding of entrepreneurial, business, and management practices in global technology-based companies.

PhD Research

The work of Bren PhD students is a balance of research and application to both understand and solve complex environmental problems. In pursuit of their passion in environmental science and management, Bren doctoral students are taking on environmental challenges in a range of topics, including climate change impacts, aquaculture and sustainable fisheries, wildlife conservation, coral reef resilience, fate and transport modeling, life cycle assessment, environmental politics, nanomaterials and micropollution, renewable energy resources, deforestation, and so much more. 

Gain inspiration for your research topic from Bren's current PhD research projects and archive of dissertation titles. 

Career Development

Whether you’re looking to apply your PhD to an academic or non-academic career path, we’re here to connect you to the advising, resources, and contacts you need to learn relevant job search skills and put your expertise to practice via real-world impacts. In addition to individualized, field-specific career guidance from your faculty advisor(s), as a Bren doctoral student, you’ll have access to supplemental career support from our highly celebrated Career Development team as well as the dedicated career and professional development staff at UCSB’s Graduate Student Resource Center . 

Bren PhD alumni have gone on to successful positions as scientists, faculty members, researchers, managers, fellows, technical officers, and more within a variety of settings, including universities, corporations, think tanks, research institutes, consulting firms, and government agencies across the U.S. and globe. 

Alumni Network Access and 24/7 Career Resources

From your first day at Bren, you’ll have access to BrenConnect, Bren’s unique career resources and alumni networking platform, where you can peruse fresh job listings, find and connect with Bren alumni, and access Bren-specific career guidance articles. Want to talk to a Bren grad who works at your dream organization? More than 75% of alumni are BrenConnect users.

Career Programming and 1-on-1 Guidance for Your Unique Career Journey

During your time at Bren, you’ll enjoy open access to the 40+ career workshops, speakers, and events hosted by the Career Development Team for Bren master’s students each year, allowing you to pick what and when to attend based on your needs and graduation timeline. To provide further guidance to doctoral students, the Career Development Team also hosts 1-2 PhD-specific workshops each year and partners with UCSB’s Graduate Student Resource Center (GSRC), which provides a full suite of additional workshops. These sessions cover academic and non-academic career topics, from how to write a teaching statement for faculty applications to how to leverage LinkedIn for a non-academic job search. In addition to individual guidance from your faculty advisor(s), both the Bren and GSRC career staff are available for one-on-one career advising on topics such as applying, interviewing, negotiating, and more.

This is a graduate school experience like no other where you'll have access to faculty mentors, potential employers, internship opportunities, and a professional network of alumni from day one. The Bren grad school experience has been designed to open doors for students to make a difference in the world. Our students often say they make friends and colleagues for life during their time at Bren.

PhD Symposium

PhD students at Bren organize and host an annual PhD Symposium in winter quarter, an event where PhD students give flash talks and present their research via a poster session to the campus community and general public. Students will also find opportunities to volunteer as part of the annual symposium committee.

PhD Retreat

Each year, Bren PhD students, faculty, and staff organize a retreat to welcome new students to the PhD program. The location of the retreat varies year to year and has been held in inspiring locations in nature, such as Yosemite and the California coast.

Are you ready to solve environmental problems?

Request more information, get to know the Bren School, and start planning your application today.

DISCOVER THE INNOVATIVE WORK WE ARE DOING ON:

• Air, Food & Water
• Art & Culture
• Cities & Towns
• Climate Change
• Energy & Technology
• Environmental Justice
• Law & Policy
• Nature & Conservation
• Sustainable Business

Ph.D. in Environment and Sustainability

Our Environment and Sustainability Ph.D. equips students with diverse perspectives to develop profound new ideas, knowledge and answers to the most important concerns facing people and the planet. The program provides a deep understanding of how fundamental principles of environmental science and sustainability can be applied to research and address key environmental challenges that require skills in multiple disciplines—preparing students for a range of careers in academia, as well as public and private sectors.

UCLA and IoES are uniquely positioned to offer a PhD program of this character. As a world-class public research university, UCLA provides access to a vast range of expertise across the physical and life sciences, humanities, fine arts, social sciences and major fields of professional training. Within UCLA, IoES provides a strong programmatic identity, multiple degree programs and issue-focused research centers, strengths that make it the campus-wide hub for teaching and research in environment and sustainability. IoES has the largest breadth of interdisciplinary collaboration of any peer institution, with 60+ participating faculty from more than 25 campus units and more than 10 faculty who hold joint appointments between IoES and other departments or schools.

Located in one of the world’s greatest and most diverse metropolitan areas, UCLA is uniquely situated to be a laboratory for engagement and partnership that puts knowledge into practice to advance concrete environment and sustainability solutions. As one prominent example, UCLA created the Sustainable LA Grand Challenge with the goal of achieving 100 percent renewable energy, 100 percent locally sourced water and enhanced ecosystem health for Los Angeles County by 2050.

Diversity and Accessibility

UCLA maintains a deep commitment to diversity and accessibility. We embrace the principles of diversity and inclusion to understand, appreciate and respect differences in cultures and customs, religious beliefs, gender identity, sexual preferences and political points of view. In May 2017, UCLA was ranked as having the most diverse hiring among tenure-track faculty out of the 60 Association of American Universities member schools.

To enhance accessibility, UCLA provides substantial financial support to recruit outstanding students and ensure their success. Entering and continuing students may receive fellowships, traineeships and employment-based opportunities to support their studies and enhance their academic, research and training portfolios.

Los Angeles and UCLA have the best of both worlds when it comes to studying the environment—lots of people and lots of nature, though you may not know it by reputation. When school is in session, UCLA effectively becomes a city of 80,000 people, nested in one of the world’s most diverse megacities. The population of greater L.A. is 18 million, and it’s growing. Yet there is a wealth of nature all around—25 percent of the county is dedicated parkland. From the Santa Monica Mountains to the beaches of Malibu, Los Angeles is a case study in how an urban humanity interacts with nature. Water, food supply, energy, pollution and environmental justice are all part of the picture.

UCLA Bruins take advantage of these open spaces on their own or in groups such as the Hiking Club and the Bruin Naturalists Club. There’s plenty of green on campus, too. The Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden is a place of beauty and biodiversity, learning and relaxation. Meanwhile, Sage Hill features native flora and fauna, with 50 higher plant species, seven mammals, 17 species of butterfly and 30 resident and migratory bird species. And drought-tolerant gardens are just steps from the front door of IoES.

Which program is right for me?

Which program should I apply for, the Environmental Science and Engineering D. Env. or the Environment and Sustainability Ph.D.?

The UCLA Institute for Environment and Sustainability (IoES) has two doctoral programs, the professional doctorate in Environmental Science and Engineering (D.Env.) and the Ph.D. in Environment and Sustainability. Both programs are interdisciplinary, both equip students with diverse perspectives to tackle pressing environmental issues, and both provide opportunities to interact with students and faculty across all the programs and projects of IoES, and more broadly across UCLA.

Environmental Science and Engineering, D.Env.

• A professionally oriented program – the only professional environmental doctorate in the nation.
• Emphasizes interactions between science, engineering, public policy, economics, and law in the protection of the environment and public health.
• Students spend two years on campus completing courses, including a major applied “Problems Course” completed in the second year.
• The dissertation is completed off campus, typically in two years, while the student is in professional residence at an environmentally focused organization – a business, public agency, consulting firm, environmental group, or non-profit organization.
• Of the program’s 250 alumni, about 90 percent are in non-academic careers in the public, private, or non-profit sectors.  

Environment and Sustainability, Ph.D.

• A research oriented program
• Newly established, with the inaugural class starting in Fall 2018
• Emphasizes interdisciplinarity and innovation in research to understand paramount environment and sustainability challenges
• Students have two advisors, from distinct disciplinary backgrounds
• Students develop an individualized program of courses in consultation with their advisors, including a small number of core courses plus additional courses that develop the foundation of knowledge and skills to support the student’s research aims, in their dissertation and their subsequent career.
• Students are typically in residence through the entire program. 
• The program will prepare students for a wide range of academic and research careers, as well as careers in environment and sustainability in the public, private, and non-profit sectors.

If you are unsure which program is right for you, we are happy to discuss it with you – or to help you transfer your application between programs.

How to Apply

• Ph.D. Fellowships and Support
• Ph.D. How to Apply

The PhD program in Marine and Environmental Sciences will train independent scientists whose research addresses fundamental and applied questions at the local, regional, national, and global scale.

Northeastern’s PhD program in Marine and Environmental Sciences trains high-caliber and independent scientists whose research addresses fundamental and applied marine and environmental science questions at local, regional, national, and global scales.  Our students will apply their research to address issues of relevance to society and the environment. In addition to training students to conduct world class research, we aim to prepare them to effectively communicate their findings broadly. We foster opportunities to develop teaching skills and communicate knowledge through outreach programs locally and internationally, so that students hone these essential skills.

To align their studies with their academic and career goals, students select one of the following 4 concentrations: Marine Sciences, Geosciences, Sustainability Sciences, and Ecology & Evolutionary Biology. While research interest may be focused, the academic experience is enriched by providing access to faculty with a wide range of expertise such as coastal sustainability, geology, marine biology, biogeochemistry, global change biology, marine robotics, fisheries science and policy, coral reef ecology, and social and ecological coupling.

• Bachelor’s and Advanced-degree entry are possible
• Students prepare and defend a written dissertation
• Faculty’s research areas are numerous
• State-of-the-art lab facilities located in Nahant, MA, a peninsula surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean
• Significant inter-lab collaboration encouraged and supported by the university
• Opportunities to TA for courses in Panamá and Washington state through the Three Seas Program

Our graduates pursue careers within academia and beyond.

• Tufts University
• Emory University
• University of Rhode Island
• Rutgers University
• Michigan State University
• New England Biolabs
• Knauss Fellowship Program

Application Materials

Application.

• Application fee – US $100
• Unofficial transcripts for all institutions attended (Official transcripts required upon acceptance of admission offer)
• Personal statement
• Three letters of recommendation
• GRE General – recommended, but not required
• Proof of English Proficiency for all applicants

Priority deadline for completed applications: December 1 st

Rolling admissions until March 15.  Check with department to see if there is availability.

• Program Website

Request Information for PhD in Marine and Environmental Sciences

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Environmental Science Ph.D.

Want more info.

We're so glad you're interested in UNT! Let us know if you'd like more information and we'll get you everything you need.

Why earn an Environmental Science Ph.D.?

The Environmental Science program is an interdisciplinary collaboration among the Department of Biological Sciences, the Department of Geography, the Department of Chemistry, the Department of Philosophy and Religion Studies and other departments at UNT to examine major environmental issues through an interdisciplinary perspective.

The program offers graduate studies in environmental science that lead to the Ph.D., granted through the Department of Biological Sciences. The course of study, involving both core and elective courses, is designed for those students who desire an interdisciplinary perspective concerning human-environmental interactions.

• Communication to professional/lay audiences
• Design field-based research protocols
• Proficiency in environmental ethics
• Recognition of national/international issues
• Lead/direct research programs/projects

Environmental Science Ph.D. Highlights

Environmental science ph.d. courses you could take.

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• Environment @ UCSB
• Graduate Programs

Master and PhD in Environmental Science and Management

The Bren School at UCSB plays a leading role in researching environmental issues, identifying and solving environmental problems, and training research scientists and environmental management professionals. The Bren School offers two degree programs: Master of Environmental Science and Management (MESM) and PhD of Environmental Science and Management.

Master of Environmental Science and Management (MESM)

The Master of Environmental Science and Management (MESM) is a 2-year professional program focused on interdisciplinary collaborative solutions to environmental problems. Each MESM cohort is approximately 80 students; the total number of MESM students is 160. MESM students come from across the U.S. and around the world. MESM students develop breadth through courses in natural and social sciences, build depth through courses in a specialization, and participate in a year-long collaborative capstone project, either working as part of a Master's Group Project or Eco-Entrepreneurship (Eco-E) Project. For Master's Group Projects, students work together in groups of 4 or 5 with a faculty advisor to solve an environmental problem for a real client, such as a business, government agency, or non-governmental organization. For Eco-E Projects, students work together in groups of 2-5 to develop a business model for a new venture that addresses both a consumer and an environmental challenge. MESM graduates pursue practical, scalable, and scientifically-based environmental solutions that are relevant for careers in business, consulting, non-governmental organizations, government agencies, and academic and research institutions.

Bren Master's Program

PhD in Environmental Science and Management

The PhD in Environmental Science and Management is designed to develop broad knowledge, analytical powers, technical skills, and creative thinking demanded of environmental leaders. Each PhD cohort is approximately 10 students; the total number of PhD students is 50. Bren PhD students conduct innovative original research, typically over 5 years, with guidance from a faculty advisor and committee. Bren PhD training differs from a conventional discliplinary department by focusing on a wide variety of environmental issues, being multidiscilinary in nature, and individualized in implementation. Bren PhD alumni are leaders in academia, research, and business.

Bren PhD Program

• School of Earth and Sustainability
• Earth Sciences and Environmental Sustainability PhD

School of Earth & Sustainability

Earth sciences and environmental sustainability, doctor of philosophy.

• Available Emphasis Areas:
• Climate and Environmental Change - Emphasis
• Earth Systems - Emphasis
• Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology - Emphasis
• Engineering Sustainable Systems - Emphasis
• Environment and Society - Emphasis

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To receive a Doctor of Philosophy Degree (PhD) at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses, from one or more disciplines, ranging from at least 60 - 109 units of graduate-level courses. Most plans require research, a dissertation, and comprehensive exams. All plans have residency requirements regarding time spent on the Flagstaff campus engaged in full-time study. The full policy can be viewed here.

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In addition to University Requirements:

Purpose Statement The Interdisciplinary PhD Program in Earth Sciences & Environmental Sustainability (ESES) brings together students and faculty from across the University. Many ESES topics address questions that can inform decisions and solutions related to environmental issues made by governments, business and society.   ESES students produce discipline-specific science and engineering of the highest quality. They strive to integrate different disciplines from the natural sciences, social sciences and engineering to build, connect and communicate knowledge to increase the broader impacts of their research.   ESES students study how planet Earth is changing due to natural phenomena and human activities over spatial and temporal scales. They observe, explain, understand, and project trends in earth, environmental, and societal systems, and investigate the drivers and processes that shape natural and social worlds and the interactions between them.

Earth Systems Emphasis This emphasis area will train and educate leaders in rapidly growing industries and academic fields such as natural resources and energy, and in government agencies that require PhD-level researchers to inform policy decisions on some of the greatest problems facing society.

Climate and Environmental Change Emphasis This emphasis often combines the long-term perspective from geological archives with process-oriented investigations of today, with the goal of integrating a field-based understanding of natural systems into predictive models to support sustainable resource management in the face of climate change.

Engineering Sustainable Systems Emphasis This emphasis is designed for engineers who are interested in understanding the economic, societal and environmental implications of engineering systems. It provides a strong background in engineering enhanced by understanding future sustainability of our environment, and will prepare you for careers in academia, industry, and governmental organizations.

Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology Emphasis This emphasis will train and educate leaders in areas of research and application at the cutting edge of conservation and sustainability professions, including basic research, management decision-making, sustainable policy development, and applied conservation.

Environment and Society Emphasis This emphasis will prepare leaders in the areas of natural resources management, community engagement, the non-profit/NGO sector, academia, and in government agencies that require PhD-level researchers to inform management and policy decisions that address some of the greatest environmental problems facing society today.

Student Learning Outcomes ESES students will select one of the following three emphasis areas, based upon their background and the work they will complete toward their dissertation:   Earth Systems Emphasis

• Advance cutting-edge research in the Earth sciences.
• Increase knowledge in the critical areas for society of energy, natural resources, water, and natural hazards.
• Apply this knowledge in areas that bridge the geosciences with physics, chemistry, engineering, and biology.
• Advance new understandings of natural climate variability.
• Improve projections of climate change and its impacts on ecosystems and their hydrological and geological underpinnings.
• Inform policy decisions about how best to manage natural resources under changing climate and related environmental stresses.
• Advance engineering analysis and applications relevant to sustainable development.
• Improve the efficiency and effectiveness of engineering processes, products, and education.
• Understand and apply their knowledge in the sustainability contexts of economic viability, environmental compatibility and sustainability, societal impacts and policy development and implications.
• Advance the frontiers of understanding of ecological and evolutionary processes.
• Synthesize applied, empirical, or experimental work from multiple disciplines to confront integrative challenges at the cutting edge of applied and basic research.
• Apply ecological, evolutionary, and conservation theory to conservation challenges, incorporating the human dimensions of sustainable management and policy.
• Advance knowledge in social theory and environmental policy related to sustainability.
• Conduct cutting-edge interdisciplinary research at the nexus of the natural and social sciences.
• Apply this knowledge in decision making for sustainable resource management and socio-economic policies.

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Graduate admission information.

The NAU graduate online application is required for all programs. Admission to many graduate programs is on a competitive basis, and programs may have higher standards than those established by the Graduate College. Admission requirements include the following:

• Transcripts.
• Undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution with a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale ("A" = 4.0), or the equivalent.

Visit the NAU Graduate Admissions website for additional information about graduate school application deadlines, eligibility for study, and admissions policies. Ready to apply? Begin your application now.

International applicants have additional admission requirements. Please see the International Graduate Admissions Policy .

Additional Admission Requirements

Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.

• GRE® revised General Test
• Three letters of recommendation
• A writing sample
• A personal statement or essay
• Resume or curriculum vitae

Doctoral Requirements

This Doctoral degree requires 60 units distributed as follows:

• Common Courses: 7 units
• Graduate Seminar:  2 units
• Professional Experience:  6 units
• Research Methods Courses: 3 units
• Climate and Environmental Change Emphasis
• Earth Systems Emphasis
• Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology Emphasis
• Engineering Sustainable Systems Emphasis
• Environment and Society Emphasis
• Dissertation: 15 units

Take the following 60 units, with a minimum GPA of 3.0:

Common Courses (7 units)

• ENV 555 (3 units)
• EES 605 , EES 606 (2 units)
• ESE 698 School of Earth and Sustainability Seminar Series (2 units)

Graduate Seminar (2 units)

• 698 Graduate Seminar course from any unit (2 units)

Professional Experience (6 units)

• Any experience that significantly broadens knowledge and skills, and advances the student’s career objectives. The requirement can be satisfied through regular course work or through individualized study that expands the student’s skills in an area outside his/her dissertation but in a professional area related to his/her career goals, or research experiences within the context of the dissertation. See an advisor. (6 units)

Research Methods Courses (3 units)

• In consultation with your advisor, select any graduate-level course with significant content in statistics and/or science/engineering research methods. (3 units)
• Emphasis Requirement - Select one (27 units)

Climate And Environmental Change Emphasis (27 units)

• Graduate-level courses with EES, ENV, BIO or FOR prefixes, or other courses that focus on climate or environmental change.

Earth Systems Emphasis(27 units)

• Graduate-level courses with GLG prefix, or other courses that focus on earth systems.

Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology Emphasis (27 units)

• ( BIO 577 or ENV 577 or FOR 577 ) (3 units)
• Select one seminar course from: FOR 505 , BIO 698 (1 unit)
• Quantitative: BIO 523 , BIO 580 , BIO 676 , FOR 606 , ( EES 529 or GSP 529 ) or other graduate-level coursework in quantitative ecology at NAU, guided and approved by advisor input.
• Physiological/population/community: BIO 570 , BIO 571 , BIO 573 , BIO 663 , BIO 673 , ENV 540 , FOR 504 , FOR 517 , FOR 520 , FOR 543 , FOR 545 , FOR 550 , FOR 551 , FOR 552 , FOR 553 , FOR 560 , FOR 580 , FOR 582 , FOR 604 , or other graduate-level coursework in physiological, population, or community ecology at NAU, guided and approved by advisor input.
• Ecosystem/global: ( BIO 507 or FOR 507 ),  BIO 578 , ENV 571 , FOR 515 , FOR 544 , or other graduate-level coursework in ecosystem/global ecology at NAU, guided and approved by advisor input.
• If electing the Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology Emphasis, complete an additional 14 units of graduate-level courses with EES, ENV, BIO or FOR prefixes, or other courses that focus on ecology, evolution and conservation biology.

Engineering Sustainable Systems Emphasis (27 units)

• Graduate-level courses with CENE or ME prefixes, or other courses that focus on engineering sustainable systems.

Environment and Society Emphasis (27 units)

• Graduate-level courses with ECO, EES, ENV, FOR, POS, SOC or SUS prefixes, or other courses that focus on economic, political and social theories and practices related to environmental sustainability.

You may have no more than 6 units of 400-level courses. These 400-level courses cannot have been used to satisfy the requirements for any previous degree program(s). You must get your dissertation committee's approval for any courses taken outside of NAU.

Dissertation (15 units)

• EES 799 for the research, writing, and oral defense of an approved dissertation. You can only count 15 units of dissertation credit toward your degree; however, you may end up taking additional units because you must enroll for it each term while you're working on your dissertation. (15 units)
• Your dissertation committee must approve all of your courses.

Research Requirements In addition to completing 45 units of coursework, you must demonstrate your independence, research skill, and experience in a discipline within earth sciences and environmental sustainability by choosing a problem and research area in consultation with your dissertation committee and then satisfactorily completing a dissertation. Your dissertation research meets our standards when it is soundly based in the theoretical context of the subject, proceeds with a sound design that gives due attention to statistical adequacy, and concludes with findings and inferences set forth within an appropriate theoretical context. Your dissertation must demonstrate that you have mastered your field of specialization, carried out independent scholarly work, and contributed significant new knowledge. You must pass an oral defense of your dissertation.

Comprehensive Exam We also require that you demonstrate written and oral communication skills in English at a level that will allow you to effectively communicate your ideas and knowledge to a wide range of audiences. Part of this demonstration involves comprehensive oral exams by the end of your 4th semester designed to establish your competence in a breadth and depth of subjects within your emphasis area and the larger field of earth sciences and environmental sustainability.

Research Competency Requirement NAU policy for PhD programs includes a research competency requirement that must be satisfied before a student can be admitted to candidacy. This interdisciplinary doctoral program recognizes ENV 555 , EES 605 , and EES 606 , plus one graduate level course with significant content in statistics and/or science/engineering research methods, as meeting this requirement.

Additional Information

Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.

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PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering

Fuel Innovation in Environmental Science and Engineering

The rapid transitions our society requires for clean energy, air, water and sustainable food systems depend on the sophisticated knowledge, exhaustive inquiry and out-of-the-box thinking of leaders. Through Clarkson University’s PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering program, you will be able to develop innovative solutions to some of the most pressing environmental sustainability issues of today. We offer the resources, state-of-the-art facilities and mentorship that allow you to become an innovator in the field. 

Why Earn a PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering?

Our graduate program in environmental engineering is considered one of the top 50 in the nation by the U.S. News & World Report . The PhD program is focused on producing researchers who can offer groundbreaking solutions to present environmental challenges. If you have a vision for the future, Clarkson provides the tools you need to bring it to life. What can you expect?

• Interdisciplinary: The coursework includes science, engineering, social sciences and policy. Your research will span the boundaries of these disciplines.
• Intensive research: The program creates the right setting for experimentation and discovery. You’ll learn from our world-renowned faculty while conducting your own investigations in our state-of-the-art facilities.
• Dissertation: The research you undertake during your studies will be the basis for your dissertation. This is your opportunity to contribute to the field with original scholarship, propositions and potential solutions.
• Resources: The Institute for a Sustainable Environment is the PhD program's home and a hub for discovery and exploration. You will find the facilities, research centers and initiatives you need to fulfill your requirements.

What You’ll Learn

PhD students take courses in:

• Ecology and environmental systems
• Environmental engineering
• Policy and law
• Risk analysis

You’ll center your elective courses around a theme of your choosing and through the guidance of your advisor. Some suggested themes include:

• Air Quality and Environmental Assessment

Engineering and Policy

Environmental Chemistry

Environmental Quality and Treatment

Sustainable Systems

Review all requirements below. 

The PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering requires 90 credit hours above the bachelor’s level. This is divided among at least 24 credit hours of coursework, a six-credit-hour seminar, doctoral work and a dissertation. You’ll devote 15 credit hours toward a theme of your choice. You’ll apply for PhD candidacy within two years of acceptance to the program. From here, you have seven years to finish all coursework and research.

Environmental Science & Engineering PhD Required Courses

The PhD candidates must complete 90 credit hours, including 6 credits of seminar and at least 24 credits of graduate coursework.  Additionally, the PhD candidate must take:

• EV 532 (Risk Analysis)
• POL 570 (Environmental Policy) or POL 571 (Energy Policy)
• CE 586 (Industrial Ecology) or CE 582 (Environmental Systems Analysis and Design)
• Five (5) additional electives (15 credits) following a selected “Theme”
• At least three (3) of the above set of courses must be Engineering courses
• Completion of a Dissertation

Programs of study will be developed for each PhD candidate in conjunction with a Faculty Advisor based on research direction and should provide sufficient breadth and depth to allow for the student’s future intellectual development. For many this will require completing more than 24 course credits. 

Suggested Elective Environmental Science & Engineering Themes

• EC660 (Environmental Economics)
• POL571 (Energy Policy)
• CE586 (Industrial Ecology)
• EV536 (Global Climate Change: Science, Engineering, and Policy)
• ANTH570 (Environment, Technology, and Society)
• POL592 (Environmental Political Theory)
• POL575 (Environmental Law)

Air Quality and Environmental Assessment:

• CE577 (Atmospheric Chemistry)
• CM532 (Particle Size Analysis in Dispersions and Other Colloids)
• CM552 (Aerosol Chemistry)
• EHS505 (Methods and Analysis)
• CE533 (Human Exposure Analysis)
• BY659 (Systems Biology)
• BY520 (Microbiology)
• BY525 (Biological Systems & Global Environmental Change)
• CE534 (Sustainable Development Engineering)
• CE569 (Watershed Analysis)
• PHIL510 (Sustainability Theory & Practice: A Critical Assessment)
• BY531/CE589 (Limnology)
• CE535 (Groundwater Hydrology and Geochemistry)
• CE580 (Environmental Chemistry)
• CM530 (Colloids and Interfaces)
• CE579 (Water and Wastewater Treatment and Design)
• CE581 (Hazardous Waste Management Engineering)
• CE584 (Chemodynamics)
• CE681 (Environmental Physico-Chemical Processes)
• CE682 (Environmental Biological Processes)

The Institute for a Sustainable Environment is a hub for integrated research in environmental solutions across Clarkson. You will have access to our CAARES facility, CAMP , the Power Systems Center, the NYS Center of Excellence in Healthy Water Solutions , the Clarkson Center for Complex Systems Science ( C3S2 ) and the Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries. The current areas of research at ISE include clean air, clean water, clean energy, advanced materials, healthy ecosystems, encouraging a circular economy, supporting a healthy planet and sustainable and resilient communities. 

A complete application consists of the following:

• Online Application Form
• Statement of purpose
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts
• GRE is strongly encouraged but not required.
• Minimum test score requirements: TOEFL (80) and TOEFL Essentials (8.5), IELTS (6.5), PTE (56) or Duolingo English Test (115).

PhD Prerequisites: No minimum grade point average is required for admission; however, in general, a GPA above 3.25 for a Master of Science degree in a related field is expected in combination with a superior record of academic achievement.

Learn more about admission requirements for graduate students .

A limited number of fully funded research and teaching assistantships and partial tuition scholarships and stipends are available for qualified full-time students.

Learn more about all of our scholarships and assistantships and how to apply by contacting the Institute for a Sustainable Environment's graduate division via email at [email protected] .

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Graduate Admissions Email: [email protected] Phone: 518-631-9831

Interested in learning more about the PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering? Contact the Office of Graduate Admissions today with your questions.

Find out more in the Institute for a Sustainable Environment.

Careers in Environmental Science & Engineering

The research-heavy foundation and interdisciplinary nature of Clarkson’s PhD program prepare candidates for a variety of career paths, and our graduate students secure leadership and research positions in many well-known organizations.

Career Paths

• Careers in the private sector
• Education and academia
• Research-, development- or innovation-based roles in government or industry

Recent Employers

• Baseline Environmental Consulting
• Cornell University
• MJW Corporation
• New York State Water Resources Institute
• NY Independent Service Operators (NYISO)
• Virginia Tech University

Student Story

"Clarkson's Environmental Science and Engineering PhD program provided me with some of the most formative, unique experiences of my education. The small community, where everyone knew one another and was passionate about their work, combined with the freedom to pursue opportunities and ideas that I found exciting, allowed me to thrive and grow as an independent researcher and professional. My time spent at Clarkson was a time of rapid growth and evolution in who I am as an individual and as a research professional. Today, as a postdoctoral researcher, my work is a direct expansion on the research and skills I gained as a PhD student at Clarkson. The freedom within the ESE program simulates well the independence of pursuing your own research in a post-graduate career — if you are excited to put in the work and desire to think creatively, you will get out what you put in and find people along the way to support you."

Evie S. Brahmstedt '22, PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering

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Sustainability Efforts

Clarkson is known and lauded for our dedication to sustainability. Our major sustainability initiatives include working to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions, maintaining a Gold AASHE Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System™ (STARS®) rating, aligning with the U.N.'s sustainable development goals and supporting student-endorsed sustainability projects.

To learn more, listen to Dr. Susan Powers, director of our Institute for a Sustainable Environment, on the Ignite Podcast about our changing climate, the latest sustainability efforts on campus and the amazing progress Clarkson has made to reduce the university's carbon footprint.

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Students enrolled in the PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering program work closely with ISE-affiliated faculty. Learn more about our team, including specialties and backgrounds.

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PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering

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Help make a positive impact on the environment through your own research and independent study. If you see yourself making a difference through Clarkson’s PhD program, take the next step.

Earth Sciences

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Earth & Environmental Science (Ph.D.)

The Doctor of Philosophy degree in Earth and Environmental Sciences (NRESS)  is offered through the interdisciplinary Natural Resources and Earth System Science program . This program offers students interested in Earth sciences (e.g. geology, geophysics, hydrology, climate science, or geochemical systems) an opportunity to pursue a Ph.D. degree that is tailored to their interests.  For more infomation, please contact Wendy Rose, Educational Program Coordinator, James Hall room 202, 603- 862-3933 , [email protected] . 

WHY PURSUE A PH.D. IN Earth and Environmental Sciences  UNH?

The Natural Resources and Earth Systems Science (NRESS) Ph.D. in Earth Systems and Environmental Science (ESSEES) is an interdepartmental program that draws on the university's strengths in environmental and earth sciences, life sciences, social sciences, and ethical and policy studies to increase our understanding of environmental and natural resource challenges and solutions at the local, regional and global scale. Areas of study include, but are not limited to, ecosystem science, biogeochemical cycling, geochemical systems, atmospheric science, environmental philosophy, forestry, geologic science, hydrology, marine science, oceanography, social science, environmental policy and ethics, environmental education, and multidisciplinary natural resources management.

Program Highlights

The Ph.D. in Earth and Environmental Sciences (EES) focuses on problems dealing with the physical, chemical, and/or biological processes that affect earth and environmental systems. Students receiving the Ph.D. degree in EES will typically have a bachelor's and/or master’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, geology, hydrology, or microbiology.

Potential Career Areas

• College or university faculty
• Principal Investigator in government agencies
• Research Scientist for nongovernmental environmental organizations
• Policy Advisor for governmental agencies and NGOs

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Contact Information

Curriculum & Requirements

Program description.

The graduate program in Natural Resources and Earth Systems Science (NRESS) is an interdepartmental program offering the Ph.D. degree for interdisciplinary work in areas related to the understanding and management of the environment in the broadest context. Areas of study include, but are not limited to, ecosystem science, biogeochemical cycling, geochemical systems, atmospheric science, environmental philosophy, forestry, geologic science, hydrology, marine science, oceanography, social science, environmental policy and ethics, environmental education, and multidisciplinary natural resources management.

Earth and Environmental Sciences (EES)

The NRESS Ph.D. in Earth and Environmental Sciences (EES) focuses on problems dealing with the physical, chemical, and/or biological processes that affect earth and environmental systems. Students receiving the Ph.D. degree in EES will typically have a bachelor's and/or master’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, geology, hydrology, or microbiology.

Requirements for the Program

Degree requirements.

The requirements of the doctoral program are flexible to accommodate the diverse interests and needs of students. All students in the NRESS program must meet the requirements listed below.

Committees and Coursework

The Ph.D. guidance and dissertation committees must consist of at least five members. The chair must be a member of the NRESS faculty . Three of the five members (including the chair) must be NRESS faculty, and committee members must be from more than one academic department. Students are strongly encouraged to include at least one off-campus member. Off-campus committee members must hold a doctoral (or terminal) degree and be approved by the student's adviser, the NRESS Program, and the Graduate School dean. Students should select the guidance committee in a timely manner, within one year for full-time students and two years for part-time students.

Core Area Course Requirements

All students will take one course in each of four core areas while enrolled in the program: natural sciences, ethics/policy/law, methods, and seminar. Students are also required to take NRES 997 Interdisciplinary Research in Natural Resources and Earth and Environmental Sciences , preferably within the first year of enrollment. Any course used to satisfy the natural sciences, ethics/policy/law, and methods core areas must be a classroom course of at least 3 credits. The seminar course must be interactive and must be at least 1 credit. Independent study courses may not be used to satisfy core requirements. Students must complete a Preliminary Coursework Approval Form, which lists the student's planned coursework, within one year for full-time students and two years for part-time students. A Final Course Approval Form, with signatures from the adviser, committee members, and the NRESS program chair is submitted once the coursework is completed.

Students Entering the Program without a Master's Degree

Students entering the program without a master's degree are expected to complete a minimum of 36 credit hours. There is not a specific credit requirement beyond the required four core courses and NRES 997 for students who have completed a M.S. or M.A. degree in a related field. Students enter the NRESS program with diverse backgrounds and preparation in their desired area of study. Therefore, final credit requirements are determined by the guidance committee and may include additional coursework necessary to enhance the student's selected field of study and/or correct any deficiencies in the student's previous program. Students may apply a maximum of 12 credits of independent study and/or seminar courses to their total course requirement.

Transfer Credits

Graduate-level courses taken prior to admission may be transferred into the program and applied to the total only if they were not taken while matriculated in another degree program, as per Graduate School policy. These courses may not be used to meet the core course requirements. Transfer of credits must be approved by the adviser, the guidance committee, and the Graduate School.

Language Proficiency

Language proficiency may be required at the discretion of the student's adviser/committee. If required, a student will need to show proficiency in one foreign language or one computer language.

Examinations

Each student is required to pass three examinations, each of which has both a written and oral component. Additional preliminary examinations may be administered before the three required exams as the committee deems necessary. Performance on such an exam will determine areas where the student needs additional coursework or could result in the student's removal from the program.

Comprehensive exam (sometimes referred to as the qualifying exam) : The student must prepare an extensive written answer to one question from each committee member that covers the basic concepts and factual material deemed essential for the student’s program. Three weeks are allowed for completion of the exam during which time students are expected to work solely on their answers.  Answers are expected to be anywhere from 10 – 20 pages per question with extensive literature citations. Completed written answers are submitted to the adviser who then distributes copies to the other committee members for review.  Approximately 1 – 2 weeks are allowed for the committee to read the answers, after which time the student gives an oral presentation to the committee. Following the presentation, committee members will ask for clarification of the student’s answers, if necessary.  The committee may require a student to repeat part, or all, of the comprehensive exam if the student’s performance is deemed unsatisfactory. This exam should be taken within three years of initiation of graduate study in the program.

Proposal exam: The student must present to the committee a written proposal on the dissertation research topic. Once the proposal is written, the student will complete a public oral presentation of the proposed research, followed by an oral examination by the committee.

Final exam: The student must complete a written Ph.D. dissertation prior to the final exam. Once written, the student is required to complete an oral defense of the dissertation, which will include both a public presentation and oral examination by the committee.

A student may be required to take additional courses following either the comprehensive or proposal exam, or may be removed from the program following failure of any of the required exams. Students are advanced to candidacy after successfully completing the comprehensive exam, proposal exam, and all coursework required by the guidance committee as summarized on the Coursework Approval Form.

Application Requirements & Deadlines

Applications must be completed by the following deadlines in order to be reviewed for admission:

• Fall : May 15 (recommended); August 1 (final; timely processing of applications not guaranteed for late submissions)
• Spring : October 15 (recommended); January 1 (final; timely processing of applications not guaranteed for late submissions)
• Summer : N/A
• Special : N/A

Application fee : $65

Campus : Durham

New England Regional : MA

Accelerated Masters Eligible : No

New Hampshire Residents

Students claiming in-state residency must also submit a Proof of Residence Form . This form is not required to complete your application, but you will need to submit it after you are offered admission or you will not be able to register for classes.

Transcripts

If you attended UNH or Granite State College (GSC) after September 1, 1991, and have indicated so on your online application, we will retrieve your transcript internally; this includes UNH-Durham, UNH-Manchester, UNH Non-Degree work and GSC. 

If you did not attend UNH, or attended prior to September 1, 1991, then you must upload a copy (PDF) of your transcript in the application form. International transcripts must be translated into English.

If admitted , you must then request an official transcript be sent directly to our office from the Registrar's Office of each college/university attended. We accept transcripts both electronically and in hard copy:

• Electronic Transcripts : Please have your institution send the transcript directly to [email protected] . Please note that we can only accept copies sent directly from the institution.
• Paper Transcripts : Please send hard copies of transcripts to: UNH Graduate School, Thompson Hall- 105 Main Street, Durham, NH 03824. You may request transcripts be sent to us directly from the institution or you may send them yourself as long as they remain sealed in the original university envelope.

Transcripts from all previous post-secondary institutions must be submitted and applicants must disclose any previous academic or disciplinary sanctions that resulted in their temporary or permanent separation from a previous post-secondary institution. If it is found that previous academic or disciplinary separations were not disclosed, applicants may face denial and admitted students may face dismissal from their academic program.

Letters of recommendation: 3 required

Recommendation letters submitted by relatives or friends, as well as letters older than one year, will not be accepted.

Personal Statement/Essay Questions

A clear, concise statement of the applicant’s relevant past experiences including academics, research, and/or work experience. The statement should also include an expression of interests and an explanation of the student’s goals in pursuing a doctoral degree. Applicants must identify in the application personal statement an NRESS PhD Program Faculty member willing to serve as their graduate advisor.

Statements must be included with your submitted application.

Additional Department Requirements

Applicants must secure a faculty member from the current list of NRESS faculty who will agree to serve as advisor and potentially provide funding for the student’s doctoral studies. Applicants should visit the NRESS program website and review the list of faculty in their area of interest. The applicant should contact potential faculty advisors to discuss their interests to determine if the faculty member(s) would be willing to serve as the student’s advisor before applying to the program.

Important Notes

All applicants are encouraged to contact programs directly to discuss program-specific application questions.

International Applicants

Prospective international students are required to submit TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent examination scores. English Language Exams may be waived if English is your first language. If you wish to request a waiver, then please visit our Test Scores webpage for more information.

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Faculty directory.

Rosemarie Came

Sophie Coulson

J. Matthew Davis

John Hughes Clarke

Joel Johnson

Robert Letscher

Joseph Licciardi

Anne Lightbody

Thomas Lippmann

Larry Mayer

David Mosher

Ruth Varner

APPLICATION INFORMATION

Applicants to the NRESS Ph.D. Program come from a wide range of undergraduate majors. Individuals are considered based on the quality of their work and its relevance to the particular area of study they wish to pursue.

CHECKLISTS & FORMS

NRESS PROGRAM INFORMATION AND FORMS FOR NRESS STUDENT

ABOUT NRESS STUDENTS

Meet NRESS Students Students currently enrolled in the NRESS Ph.D. program number nearly sixty-five, making NRESS the largest Ph.D. program at UNH. MEET THE NRESS STUDENTS

NRESS Student Network The NRESS Student Network aims to foster community across the highly interdisciplinary NRESS student body.  The Student Network coordinates professional and career development activities, as well as provides student support, guidance, and mentoring. NRESS STUDENT NETWORK

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Doctoral Programs

Animal Comparative Biomedical Science

Pursue extensive formal classroom and research training within your field of choice as you perform state-of-the-art research and present your findings at national and international meetings. Students may apply to the ACBS PhD training program without an MS. 

Biosystems Analytics & Technology

Prepare for careers in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which is the intersection of science, technology and analytics.  This program focuses on biological systems and water-related issues, such as irrigation and water quality, and biosystems applications like computer modeling, sensors and controls, and systems design.

Biosystems Engineering

Biosystems engineers use engineering, math and life science to design systems to manage soil and water resources, produce food, develop biological products, and manage and analyze large data sets. Work on projects involving wise use of energy, materials, biochemicals and recyclable wastes.

Entomology & Insect Sciences GIDP

Take on interdisciplinary doctoral training in the biology of insects. This program is flexible in its requirements, allowing students to design, in collaboration with faculty, programs of study tailored to individual interests and needs.

Environmental Science

Our distinguished faculty are experts in soil, air and water, and solutions-oriented in their research of today's most pressing environmental issues, from water quality and food safety to mining remediation and environmental justice.

Human Development & Family Science

This five-year doctoral program is designed to enrich knowledge in developmental, interpersonal and family theories while developing research skills and in-depth knowledge within a specialized content area chosen by the student.

Microbiology

Gain a postgraduate education in the basic science disciplines, including microbiology, immunology and food safety, while embracing an integrative approach to science. You will develop a broad academic foundation with a concentration in at least one science discipline.

Nutritional Sciences

This program leads in cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research that advances the discovery and translation of nutritional science and health. Explore outstanding opportunities that lead to an MS and a PhD in nutritional sciences while working directly with research faculty.

Natural Resources

This program gives you five emphasis areas to choose from: Ecology, Management and Restoration of Rangelands; Fisheries Conservation and Management; Natural Resource Studies; Watershed Management and Ecohydrology; and Wildlife Conservation and Management.

Plant Pathology

Prepare for careers in research and academia focused on microbes, particularly fungi and plant-associated bacteria and viruses, both beneficial and pathogenic.

Plant Science

Prepare for careers in research and academia focused on all aspects of plants, including interactions with abiotic and biotic factors.

Lund University

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ClimBEco Graduate Research School

About climbeco, courses and workshops, joint phd seminars on environmental challenges, climbeco video.

PhD students and project manager on why you should join ClimBEco – youtube.com.

Contact us at ClimBEco with any questions.

• Occupational & Environmental Health

Education & Degree Programs

School of medicine.

The Division of Occupational and Environmental Health sponsors the following occupational health degrees and programs within the Department of Family and Preventive Medicine. These programs are operated in conjunction with the Rocky Mountain Center for Occupational and Environmental Health (RMCOEH), which also facilitates additional programs through the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Weber State University.

See RMCOEH for comprehensive information about the degrees and emphases, including how to apply, as well as descriptions of the other programming students can pursue through the center. Brief summaries follow.

Master of Occupational Health

The Master of Occupational Health (MOH) is designed for professionals who either 1) already have a terminal degree or 2) are currently working in occupational health and safety.

The MOH is offered in the following emphases:

• General Occupational Health
• Industrial Hygiene
• Occupational Injury Prevention
• Occupational Medicine (also offered in an online format)
• Occupational Safety (also offered in an online format)

Master of Science in Occupational Health

The Master of Science in Occupational Health (MSOH) degree program is designed to train students for professional careers in occupational health or for further research training. The MSOH is offered in the following emphases:

• Occupational Safety

Doctor of Philosophy in Occupational and Environmental Health

The Doctor of Philosophy in Occupational and Environmental Health (PhD in OEH) program trains students who are interested in advanced-level OEHS problem solving, furthering professional occupational health practice through coursework applicable to research, attaining higher placement in a desired career area, or academia. The PhD in OEH is offered in the following emphases:

• General Occupational and Environmental Health

Online, Distance-Based Degrees

Students can pursue an online Master of Occupational Health (MOH) in one of two emphases: Occupational Safety and Occupational Medicine. The online MOH is particularly geared toward professionals who are already employed in occupational safety and health positions and are seeking additional education to advance in their careers.

Graduate Certificate of Occupational Safety and Health

The Graduate Certificate of Occupational Safety and Health (COSH) is designed to help meet graduate-level regional and national needs for personnel trained in occupational safety and health. Students typically have a bachelor’s degree and are often working within the industry. The certificate provides them with the training and knowledge to advance their careers. Some students may pursue a graduate degree after obtaining the certificate. The following emphases are available: Industrial Hygiene, Ergonomics and Safety, Occupational Health, and General.

Learn more about military programs available

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UD Increases its Ranking for Graduate Programs in Education

The U.S. News 2024 rankings of Best Graduate Schools of Education have been released, and the University of Dayton ranks 157th, an increase in the rankings of 19 points from the 2023 ranking report. 

The Best Education Schools rankings are designed for prospective students seeking a doctorate in education. 

The current rankings are based on the 2022-23 academic/fiscal year. 

The improvement in our 2024 ranking computation reflects the increase in doctoral degrees awarded in education, with the conferring of the Ed.D. for the first graduating class in 2022-23. 

Our ranking in the number of doctoral degrees awarded increased from 66th to 18th. This metric increased without an overall increase in total faculty in education programs, impacting our faculty/doctoral degree ratio. 

As another improvement reflected in our ranking, our level of research activity increased by 73% , as total SEHS education research expenditures in 2022-23 were nearly $1.4 million. We are also proud of the independent quality ratings of our local educational professionals and of education school deans, which resulted in our ranking on these measures trending up, by 32% for educational professionals' ratings, and 4% for education school deans' ratings. 

Research activity and quality ratings together are weighted the highest in the U.S. News Ranking methodology, composing 25% of the overall score. 

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• UB schools among the best in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools rankings

UB schools among the best in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools rankings

Photo: Douglas Levere

By David J. Hill

Release Date: April 9, 2024

BUFFALO, N.Y. – Several schools within the University at Buffalo, New York’s flagship, are ranked among the top nationwide in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools rankings , released this morning.

The School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences is among the top 20 in the country, coming in at No. 19 overall and 18th among public universities.

“This achievement is a testament to our relentless pursuit of groundbreaking research, transformative discoveries, and unwavering commitment to the success of our students,” said Gary Pollack, PhD, dean of the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. “Our top 20 ranking reaffirms our steadfast commitment to cultivating the next generation of pharmacy and pharmaceutical science leaders who will push the boundaries of scientific inquiry, drive innovation in patient care, and elevate the standards of pharmaceutical research on a global scale.”

The School of Social Work is once again in the top 25, coming in at 24th nationally and No. 13 among public universities.

The School of Nursing’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program moved up 11 spots to 34th in the country and No. 24 among public universities. In addition, the nursing anesthesia program was ranked 22nd.

“We are immensely proud to rank among the best DNP programs in the United States,” says School of Nursing Dean Annette Wysocki, PhD. “Our commitment to exceptional nursing education cultivates discipline of the mind to educate highly discerning nurse practitioners, who are indispensable in addressing the nation’s critical shortage of primary care providers. Quality nursing education remains paramount in safeguarding the health and wellness of our community.”

UB’s Graduate School of Education moved up four spots to No. 54 in Best Education Schools. Among public universities, the Graduate School of Education ranks 42nd. “Our steady climb in the rankings over the years is a testament to the hard work and high-quality research of GSE faculty,” says dean Suzanne Rosenblith, PhD.

The School of Public Health and Health Professions moved up four spots, to No. 46 nationally and No. 29 among public universities. Its programs in occupational therapy (41) and physical therapy (74) were also ranked, as was biostatistics (22).

Meanwhile, the School of Law moved up 17 places to No. 108 among Best Law Schools nationwide and 56th among public universities.

The School of Management’s MBA program came in at No. 74 in Best Business Schools and 38th among public universities, making it the highest rated business school within SUNY.

In addition, UB’s graduate programs in audiology (22) and speech language pathology (32) were also ranked this year.

Media Contact Information

David J. Hill Director of Media Relations Public Health, Architecture, Urban and Regional Planning, Sustainability Tel: 716-645-4651 [email protected]

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UT’s Excellence and Impact On Display in Latest Graduate School Rankings

AUSTIN, Texas — The University of Texas at Austin continues to be one of the premier schools for graduate studies, according to U.S. News & World Report’s partial release of its most recent “Best Graduate Schools.” UT made gains in several disciplines, including the College of Education’s jump into the top 10.

U.S. News has delayed release of its engineering, medicine and clinical psychology rankings, areas in which the University has historically achieved No. 1 and top 10 rankings.

Even with the partial release of the graduate rankings, UT maintained its top 10 spot for five colleges and schools: the College of Education (No. 8); the School of Information (No. 5); the Steve Hicks School of Social Work (No. 8); the College of Pharmacy (No. 6); and the Jackson School of Geosciences (No. 7), ranked under Earth Sciences. Three specialties ranked No. 1 in the country: Accounting, Latin American History and Sociology of Population. Overall, the University has 42 graduate schools and specialty programs ranked in the top 10 when combined with previous years.

“These rankings are striking and reflect our ability to continue to attract exceptional faculty and students. Our excellence is evident in our set of more than 40 schools, programs and specialties ranked in the top-10 in this partial release alone, including several that are the best in the country, if not the world,” said President Jay Hartzell. “Our talent is what puts UT at the leading edge of discovery in AI and robotics, life sciences, population research, and many other disciplines that are at the forefront of solving many of the world’s most pressing problems and bettering society.”

Among the highlights in this year’s rankings:

• The College of Education is now ranked in the top 10, moving up eight spots to No. 8.
• The McCombs School of Business moved up four ranks to No. 16 overall.
• The Information Systems MBA program in the McCombs School of Business is ranked No. 4 this year, marking 31 years that it has ranked in the top 5. Accounting has been ranked No. 1 for 18 years.
• The College of Pharmacy moved up one spot to No. 6. Computer Science moved up one rank to No. 7.
• The Nursing master’s program rose six spots to No. 14.

U.S. News & World Report’s graduate rankings, which are published separately from the yearly ranking of undergraduate programs, are considered the gold standard of graduate and professional rankings. They are based on surveys of academic leaders and, for select programs, additional quantitative measures including placement test scores, student/faculty ratios, research expenditures, salary by profession and job placement success.

The publication updates some of its specialty rankings each year and republishes the most recent rankings in other areas. The rankings for engineering, medicine and psychology will be released at a later date, according to U.S. News.

Graduate schools, programs and specialties that U.S. News ranked in the top 25 are listed below.

Business – 16

• Accounting – 1
• Business Analytics – 8
• Entrepreneurship – 10
• Finance – 13
• Information Systems – 4
• Management – 11
• Marketing – 11
• Production/Operations – 15
• Project Management – 4
• Real Estate – 8
• Supply Chain/Logistics – 16
• Executive MBA – 15
• Part-Time MBA – 7

Education – 8

• Counseling – 15
• Curriculum/Instruction – 12
• Education Policy – 9
• Educational Administration/Supervision – 5
• Educational Psychology – 6
• Elementary Teacher Education – 10
• Higher Education Administration – 14
• Secondary Teacher Education – 10
• Special Education – 7

Health Disciplines (other than Nursing)

• Audiology – 12
• Pharmacy (College of Pharmacy) – 6
• Social Work (Steve Hicks School of Social Work) – 8
• Speech-Language Pathology – 14
• Business/Corporate Law – 17
• Constitutional Law – 11
• Contracts/Commercial Law – 15
• Criminal Law – 20
• Intellectual Property Law – 15
• International Law – 25
• Tax Law – 13

Library and Information Studies Schools (School of Information) – 5*

• Archives and Preservation – 4*
• Digital Librarianship – 7*
• Information Systems – 8*
• Master’s – 14

Public Affairs – 13

• Public Policy Analysis – 15

The Sciences

Biological Sciences – 25*

• Ecology/Evolutionary Biology – 8*

Chemistry – 16*

• Analytical – 4*
• Inorganic – 14*
• Organic – 20*
• Physical – 14*

Computer Science – 7

• Artificial Intelligence – 9
• Programming Language – 7
• Systems – 10

Earth Sciences (Jackson School of Geosciences) – 7*

• Geochemistry – 13*
• Geology – 2*
• Geophysics and Seismology – 5*
• Paleontology – 3*

Mathematics – 13*

• Algebra – 19*
• Analysis – 8*
• Applied Math – 7*
• Topology – 8*

Physics – 13*

• Cosmology/Relativity/Gravity – 10*
• Condensed Matter – 22*

Statistics – 27* 

Social Sciences and Humanities

Economics – 22*

English – 17*

• American Literature After 1865 – 18*

History – 11*

• African American History – 10*
• Latin American History – 1*
• Modern U.S. History – 16*

Political Science – 19*

• American Politics – 20*
• Comparative Politics – 18*

Psychology – 23*

• Behavioral Neuroscience – 8*
• Social Psychology – 9*

Sociology – 11*

• Sociology of Population – 1*
• Sex and Gender – 6*
• Social Stratification – 13*

Fine Arts – 23*

• Sculpture – 6*

*Ranking not revised for 2024-25. Based on latest available ranking.

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Best Global Universities for Engineering in Russia

These are the top universities in Russia for engineering, based on their reputation and research in the field. Read the methodology »

To unlock more data and access tools to help you get into your dream school, sign up for the  U.S. News College Compass !

Here are the best global universities for engineering in Russia

Itmo university, tomsk state university, tomsk polytechnic university, lomonosov moscow state university, novosibirsk state university, saint petersburg state university, peter the great st. petersburg polytechnic university, moscow institute of physics & technology, national research nuclear university mephi (moscow engineering physics institute).

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• # 307 in Best Universities for Engineering  (tie)
• # 696 in Best Global Universities  (tie)
• # 364 in Best Universities for Engineering  (tie)
• # 587 in Best Global Universities  (tie)
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• # 632 in Best Universities for Engineering  (tie)
• # 355 in Best Global Universities
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• # 902 in Best Universities for Engineering  (tie)
• # 475 in Best Global Universities  (tie)
• # 915 in Best Universities for Engineering  (tie)
• # 483 in Best Global Universities  (tie)

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FSU graduate programs in education, nursing and law rise nationally

Florida State University’s graduate programs rank among the best in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 edition of “Best Graduate Schools” released April 9.  

Graduate programs in education, law and nursing continue to shine in the rankings, led by Education’s rise to No. 14 among all public and private universities.  

“Florida State University’s outstanding graduate programs contribute to our prominence as one of the best universities in the country,” said President Richard McCullough. “Our faculty and students are engaged in cutting-edge research, teaching and service that make a positive impact on our state, nation and world. These rankings are a testament to their hard work, dedication and innovation across a wide range of disciplines.”  

Notably, FSU’s graduate program in Education and the College of Nursing’s Doctor of Nursing Practice ranked No. 1 among Florida’s public universities.  

“Outstanding graduate programs are driving FSU’s success as a top research institution,” said Jim Clark, provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs. “These rankings reflect the significant investments FSU is making into graduate education to attract high-quality students and support them in their scholarly and creative activities.”   

Interest in FSU’s graduate programs continues to gain momentum. The number of prospective students who applied for Fall 2024 is already the third largest in university history, and applications are still being accepted.  

“FSU’s colleges and programs continue to gain increasing recognition and these latest rankings are further evidence of this exciting upward trajectory eclipsing our previous numbers,” said Mark Riley, dean of The Graduate School. “There is a very special collective coherence in all our graduate endeavors with our faculty, students and deans, working together to produce significant outcomes, and these efforts are being noticed both nationally and internationally.”  

The College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences’ graduate program in Education rose seven spots to No. 14 overall and No. 6 among publics. In addition, four education specialties placed in the Top 25 among public universities — Special Education (No. 14), Elementary Teacher Education (No. 18), Education Administration (No. 18), and Curriculum and Instruction (No. 22).  

“I am overjoyed at the rankings earned by the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences,” said Damon Andrew, the college’s dean. “Not only are we the top-ranked college among education colleges in Florida, but we also solidified our standing among elite institutions across the nation. My hearty congratulations go to the faculty, staff and students who made this outstanding result possible.”  

The College of Nursing’s Doctor of Nursing Practice continued its upward trajectory, moving seven spots to No. 26 overall and five places to No. 17 among public colleges. The DNP program, which has risen 51 places in three years, ranks No. 1 among public and private institutions in Florida.  

“We’re immensely proud of our DNP program’s national ranking climb,” said Jing Wang, dean of the College of Nursing. “The bold rise of 51 spots in three years reflects the diligent efforts of our world-class faculty who hold prestigious national honors and fellowships, the groundbreaking research our scientists embark on to solve the most complex issues in health care, and the innovative curriculum we offer as we educate the next generation of nurse practitioners leading in primary care, mental health, acute care, lifestyle medicine and health systems change. Congratulations to all our faculty, staff and students on a job well done, as we continue to make Florida State University shine on the national and global stage in our new journey on FSU Health.”  

The College of Law climbed six places to No. 23 among public institutions and eight spots overall to No. 48 overall. Seven specialty programs ranked in the Top 25 among public institutions: Environmental Law (No. 7); Tax Law (No. 12); Contracts/Commercial Law (No. 16); Constitutional Law (No. 18); International Law (No. 18); Criminal Law (No. 19) and Business/Corporate Law (No. 21).   

“We are delighted to be ranked among the nation’s top-tier law schools and to have many of our substantive programs ranked among the Top 50,” said Erin O’Hara O’Connor, dean of the College of Law. “The fact that seven of our programs are ranked in the Top 50 — including environmental law at No. 17 and tax law at No. 28 — reflects the strength of our nationally recognized faculty and the impressive breadth of our curriculum.”  

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FSU | College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences

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College of education, health, and human sciences, fsu college of education, health, and human sciences ranked best in florida by u.s. news & world report.

The 2024 U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate School Rankings placed the FSU College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences as No. 6 among public colleges of education and No. 14 overall. The rankings give FSU the distinction as having the best college of education in the state of Florida—public or private.

In addition to the overall ranking, the FSU College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences received impressive rankings in four additional areas. Among public colleges of education, FSU ranked:

• No. 22 in Curriculum and Instruction
• No. 18 in Educational Administration
• No. 18 in Elementary Teacher Education
• No. 14 in Special Education

“This is an historic moment for our college,” said Damon Andrew, dean and professor at the FSU College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences. “I have long said that the work of our faculty, students, and staff is world class, and to see it reflected by U.S. News & World Report is both gratifying and a testament to the quality of work that takes place at our college.”

The U.S. News & World Report rankings are based on several factors including peer assessment, student/faculty ratio, research activity and grants, number of doctoral students, and more. The FSU College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences excelled in all these areas, demonstrating its commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service.

“I am incredibly proud of our faculty, staff, and students for their hard work and dedication that made these rankings possible,” Andrew said. “We are not resting on our laurels, however. We are always looking for ways to improve our programs, enhance our research impact, and better serve our communities.”

The roots of FSU’s College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences date back to the university’s establishment, and it is the oldest college of its kind in Florida. Recently expanded in 2023, the College is home to six academic departments united through a common goal to maximize human potential. In total, the College includes the Department of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies, Department of Educational Psychology & Learning Systems, Department of Health, Nutrition, and Food Sciences, Department of Human Development & Family Science, Department of Sport Management, School of Teacher Education, numerous research centers, and three laboratory schools (Florida State University School, FSU Pembroke Pines Charter School, and The Collegiate School at FSU Panama City). The College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences serves more than 4,500 students via 187 full-time faculty and 73 full-time staff.

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Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (Ph.D.)

The NRESS Ph.D. Program draws on the university's strengths in environmental and earth sciences, life sciences, social sciences, and ethical and policy studies. Our Natural Resources and Environmental Studies Ph.D. students focus on problems dealing with the allocation and distribution of natural resources, policies at the local to global scale, and ethical and societal factors that affect resource management.

WHY PURSUE A PH.D. INEarth and Environmental Sciences Natural Resources and Environmental Studies AT UNH?

The Natural Resources and Earth Systems Science (NRESS) Ph.D. in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies Earth Systems Science(ESS NRES) is an interdepartmental program that draws on the university's strengths in environmental and earth sciences, life sciences, social sciences, and ethical and policy studies to increase our understanding of environmental and natural resource challenges and solutions at the local, regional and global scale. Areas of study include, but are not limited to, ecosystem science, biogeochemical cycling, geochemical systems, atmospheric science, environmental philosophy, forestry, geologic science, hydrology, marine science, oceanography, social science, environmental policy and ethics, environmental education, and multidisciplinary natural resources management.

Program Highlights

The Ph.D. in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies Earth and Environmental Sciences(EES NRES)focuses on problems dealing with the allocation and distribution of natural resources, policies at the local to global scale, and ethical and societal factors that affect resource management. Students typically enter the program with a bachelor's and/or master's degree in economics, environmental conservation, philosophy, political science, or sociology.

Potential Career Areas

• College or university faculty
• Principal Investigator in government agencies
• Research Scientist for nongovernmental environmental organizations
• Policy Advisor for governmental agencies and NGOs

Contact Information

Curriculum & Requirements

Program description.

The graduate program in Natural Resources and Earth Systems Science (NRESS) is an interdepartmental program offering the Ph.D. degree for interdisciplinary work in areas related to the understanding and management of the environment in the broadest context. Areas of study include, but are not limited to, ecosystem science, biogeochemical cycling, geochemical systems, atmospheric science, environmental philosophy, forestry, geologic science, hydrology, marine science, oceanography, social science, environmental policy and ethics, environmental education, and multidisciplinary natural resources management.

The NRESS Ph.D. in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (NRES) focuses on problems dealing with the allocation and distribution of natural resources, policies at the local to global scale, and ethical and societal factors that affect resource management. Students typically enter the program with a bachelor's and/or master's degree in economics, environmental conservation, philosophy, political science, or sociology.

Requirements for the Program

Degree requirements.

The requirements of the doctoral program are flexible to accommodate the diverse interests and needs of students. All students in the NRESS program must meet the requirements listed below.

Committees and Coursework

The Ph.D. guidance and dissertation committees must consist of at least five members. The chair must be a member of the NRESS faculty . Three of the five members (including the chair) must be NRESS faculty, and committee members must be from more than one academic department. Students are strongly encouraged to include at least one off-campus member. Off-campus committee members must hold a doctoral (or terminal) degree and be approved by the student's adviser, the NRESS Program, and the Graduate School dean. Students should select the guidance committee in a timely manner, within one year for full-time students and two years for part-time students.

Core Area Course Requirements

All students will take one course in each of four core areas while enrolled in the program: natural sciences, ethics/policy/law, methods, and seminar. Students are also required to take NRES 997, Interdisciplinary Research in Natural Resources and Earth and Environmental Sciences, preferably within the first year of enrollment. Any course used to satisfy the natural sciences, ethics/policy/law, and methods core areas must be a classroom course of at least 3 credits. The seminar course must be interactive and must be at least 1 credit. Independent study courses may not be used to satisfy core requirements. Students must complete a Preliminary Coursework Approval Form, which lists the student's planned coursework, within one year for full-time students and two years for part-time students. A Final Course Approval Form, with signatures from the adviser, committee members, and the NRESS program chair is submitted once the coursework is completed.

Students Entering the Program without a Master's Degree

Students entering the program without a master's degree are expected to complete a minimum of 36 credit hours. There is not a specific credit requirement beyond the required four core courses and NRES 997 for students who have completed a M.S. or M.A. degree in a related field. Students enter the NRESS program with diverse backgrounds and preparation in their desired area of study. Therefore, final credit requirements are determined by the guidance committee and may include additional coursework necessary to enhance the student's selected field of study and/or correct any deficiencies in the student's previous program. Students may apply a maximum of 12 credits of independent study and/or seminar courses to their total course requirement.

Transfer Credits

Graduate-level courses taken prior to admission may be transferred into the program and applied to the total only if they were not taken while matriculated in another degree program, as per Graduate School policy. These courses may not be used to meet the core course requirements. Transfer of credits must be approved by the adviser, the guidance committee, and the Graduate School.

Language Proficiency

Language proficiency may be required at the discretion of the student's adviser/committee. If required, a student will need to show proficiency in one foreign language or one computer language.

Examinations

Each student is required to pass three examinations, each of which has both a written and oral component. Additional preliminary examinations may be administered before the three required exams as the committee deems necessary. Performance on such an exam will determine areas where the student needs additional coursework or could result in the student's removal from the program.

Comprehensive exam (sometimes referred to as the qualifying exam) : The student must prepare an extensive written answer to one question from each committee member that covers the basic concepts and factual material deemed essential for the student’s program. Three weeks are allowed for completion of the exam during which time students are expected to work solely on their answers.  Answers are expected to be anywhere from 10 – 20 pages per question with extensive literature citations. Completed written answers are submitted to the adviser who then distributes copies to the other committee members for review.  Approximately 1 – 2 weeks are allowed for the committee to read the answers, after which time the student gives an oral presentation to the committee. Following the presentation, committee members will ask for clarification of the student’s answers, if necessary.  The committee may require a student to repeat part, or all, of the comprehensive exam if the student’s performance is deemed unsatisfactory. This exam should be taken within three years of initiation of graduate study in the program.

Proposal exam: The student must present to the committee a written proposal on the dissertation research topic. Once the proposal is written, the student will complete a public oral presentation of the proposed research, followed by an oral examination by the committee.

Final exam: The student must complete a written Ph.D. dissertation prior to the final exam. Once written, the student is required to complete an oral defense of the dissertation, which will include both a public presentation and oral examination by the committee.

A student may be required to take additional courses following either the comprehensive or proposal exam, or may be removed from the program following failure of any of the required exams. Students are advanced to candidacy after successfully completing the comprehensive exam, proposal exam, and all coursework required by the guidance committee as summarized on the Coursework Approval Form.

Student Learning Outcomes

The Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (NRES) PhD degree within the Natural Resources and Earth Systems Science PhD Program trains scientists and scholars whose research addresses problems dealing with the allocation and distribution of natural resources, related policies at the local to global scale, and ethical and societal factors that affect resource management. Through interdisciplinary coursework and doctoral research, we train researchers who can independently pursue the process of science and scholarship, effectively apply their research to both solve basic questions in natural resource and environmental studies and apply their work to issues of relevance to society and the environment, especially in this era of global change. learning outcomes:

• Critically review and cogently synthesize relevant literature, and identify need for new research.
• Draw on previously published work to independently design and execute new experiments or field manipulations or develop models with a high degree of sophistication. The design and execution of an experiment or the building of a model should demonstrate an understanding of good laboratory, field or modeling practices.
• Structure a coherent and convincing academic argument.
• Lead the writing of manuscripts describing their research and its impacts that are suitable for publication in peer-reviewed journals or appropriate professional outlets for their particular sub-discipline, and be able to describe their research in presentations at national meetings of major relevant scientific societies, and at national and international symposia hosted by other professional organizations. The general expectation is that the final dissertation will include three first-authored publications submitted to or accepted in a peer-reviewed journal, or ready for submission.
• Articulate how their research relates to a broader context outside of academia, and how their expertise will be applicable in the execution of complex research problems.

Application Requirements & Deadlines

Applications must be completed by the following deadlines in order to be reviewed for admission:

• Fall : May 15 (recommended); August 1 (final; timely processing of applications not guaranteed for late submissions)
• Spring : October 15 (recommended); January 1 (final; timely processing of applications not guaranteed for late submissions)
• Summer : N/A
• Special : N/A

Application fee : $65

Campus : Durham

New England Regional : MA

Accelerated Masters Eligible : No

New Hampshire Residents

Students claiming in-state residency must also submit a Proof of Residence Form . This form is not required to complete your application, but you will need to submit it after you are offered admission or you will not be able to register for classes.

Transcripts

If you attended UNH or Granite State College (GSC) after September 1, 1991, and have indicated so on your online application, we will retrieve your transcript internally; this includes UNH-Durham, UNH-Manchester, UNH Non-Degree work and GSC. 

If you did not attend UNH, or attended prior to September 1, 1991, then you must upload a copy (PDF) of your transcript in the application form. International transcripts must be translated into English.

If admitted , you must then request an official transcript be sent directly to our office from the Registrar's Office of each college/university attended. We accept transcripts both electronically and in hard copy:

• Electronic Transcripts : Please have your institution send the transcript directly to [email protected] . Please note that we can only accept copies sent directly from the institution.
• Paper Transcripts : Please send hard copies of transcripts to: UNH Graduate School, Thompson Hall- 105 Main Street, Durham, NH 03824. You may request transcripts be sent to us directly from the institution or you may send them yourself as long as they remain sealed in the original university envelope.

Transcripts from all previous post-secondary institutions must be submitted and applicants must disclose any previous academic or disciplinary sanctions that resulted in their temporary or permanent separation from a previous post-secondary institution. If it is found that previous academic or disciplinary separations were not disclosed, applicants may face denial and admitted students may face dismissal from their academic program.

Letters of recommendation: 3 required

Recommendation letters submitted by relatives or friends, as well as letters older than one year, will not be accepted.

Personal Statement/Essay Questions

A clear, concise statement of the applicant’s relevant past experiences including academics, research, and/or work experience. The statement should also include an expression of interests and an explanation of the student’s goals in pursuing a doctoral degree. Applicants must identify in the application personal statement an NRESS PhD Program Faculty member willing to serve as their graduate advisor.

Statements must be included with your submitted application.

Additional Department Requirements

Applicants must secure a faculty member from the current list of NRESS faculty who will agree to serve as advisor and potentially provide funding for the student’s doctoral studies. Applicants should visit the NRESS program website and review the list of faculty in their area of interest. The applicant should contact potential faculty advisors to discuss their interests to determine if the faculty member(s) would be willing to serve as the student’s advisor before applying to the program.

Important Notes

All applicants are encouraged to contact programs directly to discuss program-specific application questions.

International Applicants

Prospective international students are required to submit TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent examination scores. English Language Exams may be waived if English is your first language. If you wish to request a waiver, then please visit our Test Scores webpage for more information.

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Timeline for the degree.

Review the timeline for this degree both with and without a master's degree.

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Public Health Sciences Learning Objectives

Public health sciences students graduate with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace, public health sciences major - learning objectives.

Students in the Public Health Sciences major graduate with the following skills and abilities: 

• Describe the concept of population health and the basic processes, approaches, and interventions specific to the needs and concerns of populations. 
• Evaluate the source and quality of health information and data as related to individual and community health. 
• Demonstrate mastery in public health communication skills including oral communication and written communication for both lay and expert audiences.
• Assess the values and perspectives of diverse individuals, communities, and cultures, and describe how these factors influence health behaviors, choices, and practices. 
• Engage in collaborative, team-based, and interdisciplinary approaches for improving population health. 
• Identify public health tools and evidence-based strategies to respond to public health issues in a global world.
• Gain awareness of and exposure to the broad and diverse range of areas of study within the field of public health, and identify and explore areas that are of personal interest.

The Public Health Sciences major is accredited by the Council for Education on Public Health

Courses in the Public Health Sciences major provide instruction in the following domains and competencies, developed by the Council for Education on Public Health. 

Foundational Domains

• The concepts and applications of basic statistics 
• The foundations of biological and life sciences 
• The history and philosophy of public health as well as its core values, concepts, and functions across the globe and in society 
• The basic concepts, methods, and tools of public health data collection, use, and analysis and why evidence-based approaches are an essential part of public health practice 
• The concepts of population health, and the basic processes, approaches and interventions that identify and address the major health-related needs and concerns of populations 
• The underlying science of human health and disease, including opportunities for promoting and protecting health across the life course 
• The socioeconomic, behavioral, biological, environmental, and other factors that impact human health and contribute to health disparities 
• The fundamental concepts and features of project implementation, including planning, assessment, and evaluation 
• The fundamental characteristics and organizational structures of the U.S. health system as well as the differences between systems in other countries 
• Basic concepts of legal, ethical, economic, and regulatory dimensions of health care and public health policy and the roles, influences, and responsibilities of the different agencies and branches of government 
• Basic concepts of public health-specific communication, including technical and professional writing and the use of mass media and electronic technology

Foundational Competencies

• Communicate public health information, in both oral and written forms, through a variety of media and to diverse audiences 
• Locate, use, evaluate, and synthesize public health information

Accreditation

The Public Health Sciences major at UMass Amherst is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health, which is an independent agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit schools of public health, and public health programs outside schools of public health.

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