The Master of Science in Environmental Science (MSES) is for students seeking deeper understanding of the role that field-based science plays in determining economic and political policies that shape northern regions. The science portion emphasizes both knowledge and practical field abilities in biology, chemistry, and geology. The policy portion emphasizes the historical development of current policies, agreements, laws, and regulations, as well as their use and effects.

The following are the degree objectives for the Master of Science in Environmental Science:

• Increase knowledge of environmental science and policy and apply this knowledge in field and laboratory settings
• Develop skills in written and oral communication to the level of delivering professional presentations and crafting publishable papers
• Apply analytic techniques including modeling, statistical inference, and database management
• Design, undertake, analyze, write and defend an original research project as a graduate thesis

Admissions

We seek talented new and recent graduates of four-year programs as well as working adults seeking to advance in the natural sciences. Our MSES students represent a wide range of academic backgrounds and work experiences – and include successful candidates whose background may not be in science.

In addition to the general requirements for admission to graduate studies at APU, found under the Admissions section of this catalog, the MSES program expects incoming students to have basic quantitative and discipline-appropriate skills, as evidenced by at least two college-level courses in math/statistics and two foundational courses in the field of the student’s primary interest (e.g. biology or geology). A bachelor’s degree in one of the natural sciences will typically meet this requirement; students from less traditional backgrounds may require some preparatory coursework before starting the program.

To apply, complete the standard application for graduate admission and supplement with the following documents:

1. Three letters of recommendation dated within the past year
2. A current resume or CV
3. Graduate Records Exam (GRE) scores dated within the past four years
   • APU reporting code: 4201
4. A 500 word essay outlining your motivations for seeking the MSES. Include your professional interests, career goals, and the research topic(s) you wish to pursue for your thesis.
5. Completed Faculty Mentor Request form

The MSES program admits students for the Fall semester only. Applicants seeking to begin studies at any other time must submit a written request for exception stating reasons for an alternative start date. This request must accompany other application materials.

• MSES application review begins immediately following the February 15 priority deadline. Applicants who prefer to work with a specific faculty advisor are strongly encouraged to submit all application materials ahead of the priority deadline as faculty advisors will be assigned at this time and space may be limited. Late applicants, while admissible, may not be assigned to the advisor of their choice due to faculty load restrictions.

MSES Degree Requirements (48 credits)

 Each Master of Science in Environmental Science graduate is required to:

1. Successfully complete six required courses, two elective courses, and two research seminars.
2. Successfully design a thesis proposal and complete an individually designed research thesis.
3. Submit MSES thesis committee approval form to the Registrar’s Office prior to graduation.