UMass Boston

Environmental Sciences MS

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Create a better future through cutting-edge research

Join the Environmental Sciences master's program and embrace the field as a metadiscipline that integrates the natural and social sciences. The School for the Environment is nationally recognized for its preparation of MS-level environmental practitioners whose research and practical knowledge advances natural resource conservation, climate change impacts and responses in coastal marine systems, new methods and technologies for the remote study of the planet, and the development of sustainable policies and management strategies to conserve and protect human-natural systems.

In the Environmental Science MS with UMass Boston, you will:

  • Develop a strong foundation in environmental science, gaining a comprehensive understanding of ecological systems, environmental processes, and the impact of human activities on the environment
  • Acquire proficiency in scientific research methods, data collection, and analysis, allowing you to conduct fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and environmental monitoring
  • Generate valuable insights and inform environmental decision-making
  • Cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills necessary for effectively communicating scientific findings

How to Apply

Thesis Track
Non-Thesis Track

Applicants must meet general graduate admission requirements in addition to the following program-specific requirements:

Letters of Recommendation: 2
Other: Faculty advisor commitment, 3.0 undergraduate GPA

Application Deadlines

Thesis Track
Non-Thesis Track

Deadlines: January 15 for fall, October 15 for spring

Curriculum

Core Courses (8 Credits)


Skills Course (3 or 4 Credits)


Complete one from below.

Another course may be taken with approval of the master’s thesis/project committee.

Ethics Course (1 Credit)


School for the Environment Seminar (2 Credits)


Graduation Criteria

Program Requirements


Complete 30 credits from at least nine courses including two core courses, one skills course, one ethics course, one School for the Environment seminar, one capstone course, and nine to ten credits of electives.

Capstone: Complete a project as part of ENVSCI 698.

Minimum grade: No courses with a grade below B may be applied toward the program. Students who earn a B- in two courses will be considered no longer in good standing and may be dismissed from the program. Students who receive a grade below C in any graduate course will be dismissed from the program.
Grading basis: Courses must be taken graded unless the course is only offered on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis.
GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required from all courses applied toward the program.
Residency: Graduate course credits earned at another institution, as a non-degree student, or in another department may only be applied to the program with approval from the thesis/project advisor and graduate program director.
Course level: No more than one course taken at UMass Boston at the 300/400-level may be applied toward the program with approval of the thesis/project advisor and graduate program director.
Statute of limitations: Seven years.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Please refer to Cost & Aid - Graduate Students for more information.

For additional information regarding tuition and fees, please visit the Bursar’s Office or send an email to Bursar@umb.edu.

FAQs

1. Should I contact faculty members directly?

Yes, reach out and talk to faculty whose research interests you.  To be accepted in the program you need a faculty advisor.

2. Is there a separate application I need to fill out to be considered for a teaching assistantship?

No, your general application is all that is required.

3. I'm applying for a master's degree, can I still get a teaching assistantship?

Possibly, preference is given to doctoral students.

4. Can I start my graduate degree in the spring semester?

Yes, however, most students start in the fall semester.  

5. Can I get an application fee waiver?

In special situations this is possible, please contact the graduate program director directly and discuss your situation.

Should you need further assistance please refer to the link below or contact Graduate Program Director Michael Tlusty at michael.tlusty@umb.edu

Career Possibilities

Conduct research, collect and analyze environmental data, and assess the impact of human activities on ecosystems as an environmental scientist. Evaluate environmental policies and provide recommendations for developing and improving environmental policies as a policy analyst. Or, study the impacts of climate change and contribute to efforts aimed at addressing them as a climate change analyst.These are just a few of the possibilities.

Become a(n):

  • Environmental Scientist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Conservation Specialist
  • Environmental Policy Analyst
  • Climate Change Specialist
  • Environmental Educator
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School for the Environment

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