The Environmental Studies Program is a flexible and interdisciplinary graduate program. Students design a course plan
tailored to their individual goals and interests and identify faculty members who can advise them in developing and
completing their projects and theses. The program offers a two-year master of science (M.S.) or master of arts (M.A.)
degree in environmental studies and a three- to five-year post-masters doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in environmental science, studies, and policy.
The program operates as an autonomous unit within the College of Arts and Sciences. More than eighty faculty members
affiliated with the program have research and/or teaching interests in local, regional, and global environmental
issues such as urban growth, sustainability, water resources, public land management, marine resources, land use,
and endangered species. The program attracts exceptionally strong students. Our students often have non academic
environmental experience (employment, volunteer work, internships, Peace Corps, or Americorps). Most graduate students
in environmental studies receive funding for all or part of their graduate program.
Program members enjoy a strong sense of community. The success of a student's individualized program relies heavily on
personal initiative and self-discipline. Many students focus on the law, policy, and science of environmental issues;
others choose to focus on the philosophical and historical legacies that underlie the human connection with the
environment. Some students integrate cultural representations of environment through studies in art, music, dance,
theater, and literature. Program graduates have gone on to work for government agencies, non governmental organizations,
and the private sector or have entered doctoral programs. The doctoral program prepares students for careers in research
and teaching in postsecondary institutions or for employment in government and non government sectors.
The program is complemented by the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology, the Institute for a Sustainable Environment, and
other campus and community resources. Students can take courses and work with faculty members at Oregon State University
and Portland State University through a joint-campus agreement.
Concurrent Degrees
Environmental studies students may obtain concurrent degrees with majors in law; economics; business; planning, public
policy and management; geography; biology, or other disciplines. Students must apply separately and be accepted to the
Environmental Studies Program as well as to the school, department, or program offering the major for the second degree.
5223 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403-5223, Voice (541) 346-5000, Fax (541) 346-5954
Visit us in Pacific Hall, Room 10 or email us at ecostudy@uoregon.edu
