Program Overview
The Master of Science in Environmental Studies at San José State University prepares students for careers as environmental professionals or further academic training. The program emphasizes both quantitative and qualitative research, with focus areas including climate impacts, human ecology, and environmental justice. Students complete coursework, an application science component, and a culminating experience (thesis or project). Graduates are equipped for careers in environmental consulting, research, policymaking, and education.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Science in Environmental Studies program at San José State University aims to prepare students for careers as environmental professionals or to pursue further academic training in Ph.D. and other advanced degree programs. The curriculum integrates global and local perspectives and emphasizes both quantitative and qualitative research. The program's focus areas include:
- California Wild (Protected) Lands
- Forest Ecology and Conservation
- Climate Impacts Research
- Human Ecology
- Coastal Environments
- Agroecology
- Insect Conservation
- Corporate Sustainability
- Marine Environments
- Energy
- Nature and Conservation Photography
- Environmental Education
- Political Ecology
- Environmental Impact Assessment
- Pro-environmental Behavior
- Environmental Justice
- Sustainable Food Systems
- Environmental Policy
- Water Resources Management
- Environmental Restoration
- Wetlands Ecology, Restoration, and Management
- Wildlife Conservation and Management
Outline:
The program consists of 30 units of coursework, including:
- Seminars (9 units):
- ENVS 200 - Seminar: Environmental Methods
- ENVS 250 - Seminar: Environmental Thought and Philosophy
- ENVS 297 - Research and Proposal Development
- Application Science (9 units):
- 9 units of 100- or 200-level field analysis, laboratory work, or other forms of application science selected with the advisor's approval.
- Electives (6 units):
- 100- or 200-level courses in Environmental Studies or related fields selected with the advisor's approval.
- Culminating Experience (6 units):
- Plan A (Thesis): Complete ENVS 299 - Master's Thesis (1-6 units).
- Plan B (Project): Complete ENVS 298 - Special Study (1-4 units) and an additional 3 units of electives.
Assessment:
The program's assessment methods include:
- Coursework: Students are assessed through assignments, exams, and projects in each course.
- Culminating Experience: Students are assessed on their thesis or project, which must be approved by their committee and successfully defended.
- Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR): Students must pass the GWAR as a condition for advancement to candidacy.
Teaching:
The program is taught by faculty members with expertise in various areas of environmental studies. The faculty work closely with students to guide their research and academic development. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through field work, laboratory experiments, and internships.
Careers:
Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in environmental consulting, research, policymaking, education, and other fields. Potential career paths include:
- Environmental Scientist
- Environmental Engineer
- Environmental Consultant
- Conservation Biologist
- Environmental Educator
- Policy Analyst
- Researcher
San Jose State University
Overview:
San Jose State University (SJSU) is a public university located in San Jose, California. It is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in business, engineering, and nursing. SJSU is also recognized for its commitment to student success and its location in the heart of Silicon Valley, providing students with access to numerous career opportunities.
Services Offered:
SJSU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
King Library, tutoring services, academic advising, and career counseling.Student Life:
Housing options, health and wellness services, campus safety, and student organizations.Research and Innovation:
Opportunities for student-faculty collaborations, research centers and institutes, and partnerships with industry leaders.Online Learning:
SJSU Online offers flexible and affordable programs for students with busy lifestyles.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at SJSU can expect a vibrant and diverse campus community. The university offers a variety of events, traditions, and student organizations to foster a sense of belonging and engagement. The campus is located in close proximity to Silicon Valley, providing students with access to numerous cultural and entertainment options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Location in Silicon Valley:
Provides access to numerous career opportunities and industry connections.Strong Academic Programs:
Offers a wide range of programs, particularly in business, engineering, and nursing.Affordable Education:
Provides a high-quality education at a relatively affordable cost.Commitment to Student Success:
Offers a variety of support services to help students succeed academically and professionally.Academic Programs:
SJSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across nine colleges:
- Business
- Education
- Engineering
- Graduate Studies
- Health and Human Sciences
- Humanities and the Arts
- Professional Education
- Science
- Social Sciences
Other:
SJSU is a highly ranked university, consistently recognized for its value, innovation, and social mobility. The university is committed to sustainability and has received numerous awards for its environmental initiatives.
Entry Requirements:
- An undergraduate degree in Environmental Studies or related field from an accredited institution.
- An overall grade point average of 3.0 (“B”) or better for the last 60 semester units of academic study.
- The capability, in the opinion of the graduate committee, of successfully completing degree requirements.
- The removal of deficiencies if preparation differs markedly from the BS - Environmental Studies at San José State University. (BA students may be required to complete a general science background.) Courses used to remove such deficiencies cannot be used to fulfill MS requirements. For further information, see the graduate coordinator.
- Two letters of recommendation from university faculty members or professionals in the field.
- A personal statement of purpose that describes your background and objectives for seeking the MS - Environmental Studies at SJSU. This letter should also convey a sense of focus and direction for thesis research and potential faculty thesis advisers in the department.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Applicants from countries in which the native language is not English must achieve a minimum score of 580 (Paper Based), 237 (Computer Based), or 92 (Internet Based) on the TOEFL exam for foreign students.
