What Is Environmental Engineering?

The environmental engineering and science curriculum provides a comprehensive base of course work and research in the areas of air and water quality management; environmental chemistry and microbiology; natural systems modeling; and processes for water supply, pollution control, and solid and hazardous waste management.

The Environmental Engineering and Science (EES) graduate program, featuring master’s degrees and a doctorate degree, at the University of Iowa represents diversity and excellence in teaching and research. Our alumni hold positions in academia, consulting, public works and private enterprise, worldwide. Graduates demonstrate the ability to manage, treat, and/or remediate hazardous substances, water supplies, municipal wastewater, storm water, solid & industrial waste, all while protecting public health. Our alumni also develop, plan and implement projects for sustainability, waste reduction, alternative energy, and life-cycle analysis. See details on our long-standing, top tier ranking.

Graduates of the EES program demonstrate fundamental and advanced knowledge of chemistry & microbiology, biological & physical-chemical treatment processes, environmental sampling & analysis, and technical communications, contextualized by a modern understanding of complex environmental systems. Elective coursework provides knowledge of fluid flows, informatics, watershed ecology, and the politics & economics of food, energy, water systems.

For many EES students, fundamental research and the completion of a thesis and/or dissertation deepens their graduate education and contributes to the body of knowledge. For many others, a course-work only master’s degree supports their career aspirations and/or professional development needs. Potential applicants can view the admission requirements, estimated cost of attendance, application deadlines, and application procedures at the Graduate College webpage for the EES program: Link to Graduate College Application.

Research active EES students typically receive a paid research assistantship, paid tuition, and other benefits. Research assistantships are awarded through a faculty-student matching process where written and verbal correspondence, and an on-campus visit, help the potential student and faculty determine if shared interests, skills and aptitudes point to future research success. Research track applicants must have a minimum TOEFL score of 81 and a minimum combined verbal & analytical GRE score of 301.