MS Learning Goals & Objectives

MS in Environmental Sciences Program Learning Goals and Associated CLAS Essential Learning Outcomes (ELOs)


Program Learning Goal #1:  Knowledge Base of Environmental Processes and Systems

1.1 Critically evaluate the interdisciplinary nature of environmental science through the integration of the natural and physical sciences along with engineering, extending to the social sciences.

1.2 Demonstrate knowledge of a specific field of research within the context of the existing literature.

1.3 Conduct meaningful research using fundamental scientific principles, literature and analytical procedures and instrumentation.

1.4 Critically evaluate scientific and causal arguments.


Program Learning Goal #2:  Analytic Approaches and Methods

2.1 Demonstrate knowledge of appropriate analytic methods for analysis of environmental data.

2.2 Apply analytic methods, including statistical or geospatial techniques, to environmental data for studying scientific phenomena.

2.3 Obtain, analyze and interpret environmental data.


Program Learning Goal #3: Application and Community Engagement

3.1 Understand and demonstrate how student work influences society and promotes environmental stewardship within the student’s realm of influence and community.

3.2 Demonstrate ability to work on real-world challenges to combine theory and practice in responding to local to global issues at  community, non-profit, corporate or government contexts.

3.3 Practice effective communication of environmental science concepts and problems to both scientific and public audiences.


Program Learning Goal #4: Integrative and Applied Learning

4.1 Understand and synthesize complex relationships among components of natural and human systems.

4.2 Apply acquired skills to work as an individual or team in environmental research to real-world challenges.

4.3 Draw on diverse perspectives to examine complex social and environmental issues and practice global citizenship.