The University of Chicago is introducing a new master’s program in environmental science. This program aims to equip students with essential quantitative and data science skills applicable across various environmental science fields, including climate science, biogeochemistry, ecology, and oceanography.
“The demand for environmental science training is widespread and increasing, with environmental issues permeating all sectors of society,” said Maureen Coleman, associate professor of geophysical sciences and faculty director of the program. “Our program will provide a rigorous foundation in environmental data, earth systems, and climate sciences.”
Students enrolled in the program will undertake two courses focused on environmental data science. These courses will cover different types of environmental data, data analysis techniques, data collection instrumentation, and machine learning with a focus on addressing environmental problems.
Additionally, students can choose from a range of electives taught by leading faculty members in subjects such as environmental chemistry, climate dynamics, glaciology, and paleoclimatology. The program concludes with a capstone project-based course that addresses real-world problems in environmental science.
Upon completing the year-long program, graduates will possess the knowledge and skills necessary for further graduate studies or careers in public policy, corporate sustainability, ecosystem conservation, or green investing.
Set to begin in autumn 2025, the program will start accepting applications this fall.
“The MS in Environmental Science is a strong addition to an already excellent set of master’s programs in the physical and mathematical sciences,” said Ka Yee C. Lee, Interim Dean of the Physical Sciences Division. “Given the distinction of the Department of the Geophysical Sciences faculty and the flexible nature of the degree, students will have remarkable opportunities to engage with leading scholars across disciplines and graduate prepared to make a positive impact on the world.”
For more information about the program or application details, visit the University’s website.