On-campus and Online Professional Science Master’s in Applied Science in Environmental Assessment With Certificates in Environmental Assessment and Environmental Justice


Professor with team of Environmental Studies students doing soil test outside campus

Join a growing job field in environmental assessment

The world’s growing population, and our growing understanding of problems caused by environmental degradation, climate change and the multiple benefits of greater sustainability and resilience, mean there is a growing need for environmental science professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for environmental scientists and specialists is expected to grow 11 percent by 2026, faster than the average for all professions.

An environmental scientist's duties might include:

  • Assessing potential impacts to the environment by impending development projects, programs and policies
  • Providing information and guidance to government officials, businesses or the public about possible environmental hazards, risks and opportunities
  • Working with governments at the local, state or national level on environmental projects and public policy
  • Working with businesses to assess, track, report and enhance environmental performance and sustainability

What jobs can I get with a Professional Science Master's (PSM) in environmental assessment?

Environmental scientists and professionals apply their knowledge in a variety of settings, including environmental consulting and engineering firms, governmental agencies, businesses and industry, and non-profit organizations. Adding an environmental justice focus opens additional opportunities with government agencies, community organizations and private firms. 

Is environmental assessment graduate education right for me?

KU's environmental assessment graduate programs are designed for students interested in a wide range of environmental issues. Courses are offered online and at the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park. The environmental assessment graduate programs combine physical and natural science, resilience, and sustainability principles with project management and communications training to develop science professionals with the skills to accurately collect, synthesize, and clearly communicate data, develop and implement solutions, and successfully lead teams.

What environmental assessment graduate programs are available at KU?

KU offers three options for environmental assessment programs. The Environmental Assessment Professional Science Masters and graduate certificate can be completed fully online, or in-person/hybrid format at the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park. The Environmental Justice graduate certificate is a hybrid program which can be completed at the Edwards Campus or the KU Lawrence Campus. See the choices below and download the program guides for more information. Each guide provides the program’s curriculum, career paths, admissions information, tuition and more.

Questions?

Terri Woodburn Ph.D.
  • Director and Assistant Teaching Professor, Environmental Assessment Programs

Accelerated Master’s Degree (4+1)

Save time and money by earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree at KU in only five years.

The KU environmental studies accelerated master’s degree program is designed for qualified students currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Environmental StudiesBachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies or Bachelor of General Studies in Environmental Studies degree tracks. The program allows a student to complete the Professional Science Masters (PSM) in Environmental Assessment graduate degree in a single year, or five years total for both degrees. Talk to your academic advisor for more information about this program option.

Professional Science Master's with concentration in Environmental Assessment 33 credit hours - 1 capstone, 4 professional skills courses, 2 science electives, 4 science core coursesGraduate Certificate in Environmental Assessment 12 credit hours - 3 required courses, 1 elective courseGraduate Certificate in Environmental Justice 12 credit hours - 2 required courses, 2 elective courses
Why choose KU for environmental assessment?

Flexible

  • Online, on-site and hybrid course formats
  • Evening courses
  • Accelerated 4+1 master’s option

Quality

  • Credentialed, experienced faculty
  • Globally recognized academics
  • KU is one of 38 public university members of the prestigious Association of American Universities, a group of America's leading research universities

Useful

  • Courses designed for science, business and technology professionals
  • Learn it today, use it tomorrow
  • Versatile skillset designed to apply scientific principles to your field