Graduate Programs in Environmental Science
Environmental science is a broad and diverse field, encompassing a range of expertise from scientific research to policy and management. That's why UTC offers two distinct graduate tracks and two post-baccalaureate certificates to fit the needs of our students.
The master’s degrees share a common foundation in environmental science but diverge in focus, curriculum and career opportunities, empowering students to tailor their education to their unique career goals and interests.
- Environmental Science, M.S.
- Environmental Science: Environmental Administration and Management, M.S.
M.S. Environmental Science
- Focus
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Scientific principles and research methodologies relevant to understanding and solving environmental problems. Emphasis on the natural sciences as they relate to environmental issues.
- Curriculum
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Rigorous scientific coursework, laboratory work and field research designed to deepen students’ understanding of environmental processes, ecological dynamics and the scientific underpinnings of environmental issues.
- Careers
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Environmental scientist, research scientist, conservation scientist and roles in academia or governmental research institutions requiring strong research skills, scientific analysis, and technical expertise.
M.S. Environmental Administration and Management
- Focus
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Grounded in environmental science but with stronger emphasis on administrative, management and policy aspects of environmental issues. Designed for students aimed at leadership, management or policy development.
- Curriculum
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Coursework grounded in environmental science but with a stronger emphasis on policy, law, management, economics and sustainability.
- Careers
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Environmental program manager, sustainability director, environmental policy analyst and consultant and other roles in environmental organizations, governmental agencies, NGOs and private sector companies focused on sustainability.
The post-baccalaureate certificates are designed to supplement students enrolled in other graduate programs or for those who want to advance themselves in the workforce.
Faculty
UTC environmental science graduate faculty deliver dynamic courses rooted in science and policy, sharpening students’ critical thinking, advocacy and communication skills to tackle environmental challenges comprehensively and practically.
Our grad students dive into meaningful research and gain real-world experience through guided projects, internships and engaging discussions. They graduate prepared for career growth in various roles in the public and private sectors.
Student Professional Opportunities
Internships: Students in the UTC graduate environmental science program who engage in internships for their capstone experiences typically are placed in positions at agencies and firms that provide tangible career-advancement potential. While the specific skill set that a student will learn and practice varies for different internship settings, these positions all require students to practice effective communication and can lead to full-time jobs for recent graduates.
Presentations and Publications: Many of our thesis-track students deliver oral presentations or research exhibits to highlight their work at professional conferences, and some publish and/or co-author peer-reviewed articles based on their graduate studies. UTC Biology, Geology and Environmental Studies provides up to $250 for travel, and the UTC Graduate School up to $500 for travel to graduate students presenting results of their research at regional and national-level meetings.
Many students also participate in the UTC Spring Research and Creative Arts Conference, sponsored by the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, to showcase their research.
During the last five years, graduate students gave 91 academic and scientific presentations at professional conferences and through opportunities provided on campus. They also published 38 peer-reviewed publications. This includes a mixture of both thesis and non-thesis students.
Impact Through Collaboration
UTC faculty and graduate students collaborate with several community partners including local, regional and federal organizations such as:
- Audubon Society
- Chattanooga Natura Center
- Environmental Protection Agency
- Hamilton County Public Schools
- Reflection Riding
- Tennessee River Gorge Trust
- Tennessee WaterWays
- Chattanooga Arboretum
- Chattanooga Zoo
- EPB of Chattanooga
- Lula Lake Land Trust
- TN Dept of Environment and Conservation
- Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
- Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
How to Apply
The UTC Environmental Science graduate program accepts applications for the fall, spring and summer terms through a rolling admission process
- Step 1: Meet UTC Graduate School's admission requirements.
- Step 2: Prepare application materials including: a letter of intent, a resume/cv and three references.
- Step 3: Submit a UTC Graduate School application through the UTC application portal.
- Step 4: Request and submit official transcripts.
What Our Grads Are Saying
