Environmental geoscientists collect and analyze air, water and soil samples to prevent, control, or fix environmental problems. Ever increasing urban development and industrial expansion cause stress and potential hazards for the environment and human health. In addition, global climate change, in particular sea level rise, is affecting millions of people in the United States and around the world. Well trained professionals are needed who can identify, control, or eliminate sources of pollutants or hazards affecting the environment or public health.

The Environmental Geology MPS track offers students a specialized degree that combines knowledge in theoretical areas of geology with technical expertise in geochemistry, geophysics, and hydrogeology to address geologic hazards.

Prerequisites

Bachelor's degree, preferably in geology, geochemistry, or geography

Course Topics:

Earth surface processes, environmental site assessment, Geographic Information System (GIS), geophysics, geological and hydrological hazards, seismic interpretations

Example Job Titles:

• Environmental Geologist/Scientist
• Environmental Project Manager
• Natural Resource Specialist
• Project Engineer Geologist
• Hydrogeologist

• Why this track is important?

  Urban and industrial development in conjunction with sea level rise cause increasing stress on human health and potential environmental hazards. This track will produce well-trained geoscientists who can identify and mitigate naturally and anthropogenically-derived geologic hazards at the local and national levels.

• Why Miami?

  The Rosenstiel School has a diverse group of experts in geochemistry, geophysics, and hydrogeology to address the impacts and mitigation of chemical pollution, salt water incursions and retreat of the coastal zone due to sea level rise. They will provide the students with the academic grounding and rigorous training in field and laboratory techniques for addressing and solving tasks in their career in environmental geology.

• What can students do with this degree?

  The students completing the Master of Professional Science degree in Environmental Geology will be equipped with the tools to provide sound advice for 1) responsible development of coastal and urban areas, and 2) mitigating naturally and anthropogenically-derived geologic hazards at the local and national levels. They will be well-positioned to feed the increasing demand for environmental geologists from local businesses and engineering companies, environmentally-oriented non-profit organizations, as well as federal, state, or local governments.

• What makes this track unique?

  The track offers students comprehensive knowledge in geology with technical expertise in geochemistry, geophysics, and hydrogeology. To prepare students for their subsequent career, courses combine theoretical and hands-on practical training. This expertise will be the foundation to tackle a variety of environmental challenges and careers.

¹ Enrollment in 2-6 internship credits is required during a student's time in the MPS degree program. Completion of less than 2 internship credits must be approved by MPS Director. Students may enroll in more than 6 internship credits with the approval of the Program Director. Typically, two semesters are needed to complete all aspects of the internship phase of MPS.

Elective Options

Three core courses are required in each semester plus one additional elective course, totaling 24 course credits. Students may request additional elective courses instead of core courses with the consent of their Academic Advisor. Refer to the course schedules for a list of classes available on the Rosenstiel School campus. The course offerings may vary from semester to semester. For more details, visit the UM Academic Bulletin.