Department of Environmental Science and Management

Graduate Programs

We offer the Masters of Science (MS), the Masters of Environmental Management (MEM), and the Professional Science Masters (PSM) degrees. The Department also participates in the Earth, Environment, & Society Ph.D. degree. 

Our graduate program provides a curriculum that will develop scientists and managers able to analyze and understand environmental systems, predict environmental change and participate in the management of the environment. Each student conducts research and completes a thesis or project; develops depth in a specific academic area; and develops breadth through a set of core courses that include concepts in physical systems, ecological systems and management. Areas of primary specialization are terrestrial, urban and aquatic ecology as they relate to human impacts and management. 

tree branch with leaves

Environmental Science and Management MS

MS students complete lab or field thesis research, with the goal of developing original scientific research questions to contribute new knowledge in the form of a MS thesis, likely leading to publication of these new findings. This degree typically is a stepping stone to a more traditional research career pathway.

Portland State University environment management student studying

Masters of Environmental Management

MEM students will complete a project with scope and effort similar to a thesis but with more flexibility of topic and design, including in-depth study of an appropriate problem. Typically, MEM students develop a project in consultation with an agency or organization outside the university.

Portland State University environmental science and management graduate student walking in the forest.

Professional Science Masters

PSM students will complete two graduate certificates in environmentally related areas and complete a project or internship, gaining applied knowledge in the discipline of professional management and practices.

Students examining soil under a bridge

Earth, Environment, and Society Ph.D.

The Earth, Environment, & Society (EES) doctoral program provides an opportunity for the student to engage in relevant research while acquiring advanced academic training in Environmental Science and Management, Geography, Geology, or a related field.

Ocean wave crashing

Hydrology Graduate Certificate

The Graduate Certificate of Hydrology is designed to give students advanced training in hydrology, and leads to professional certification with the American Institute of Hydrology (AIH).