M.A. in Early Christian Studies
The M.A. in Early Christian Studies at The Catholic University of America is an interdi...
M.S. in Environmental Engineering
Washington, D.C
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.S. in Environmental Engineering at The Catholic University of America is a graduate program designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills to address complex environmental challenges facing society. The program emphasizes both foundational engineering principles and cutting-edge technologies related to environmental protection, resource management, and sustainable development. It prepares graduates for advanced professional roles in design, research, and management within the environmental engineering sector, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable future.
STEM Designated: Yes, the M.S. in Environmental Engineering program at The Catholic University of America is STEM-designated. This is advantageous for international students, as it potentially allows them to apply for an extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States, providing additional post-graduation work authorization.
ABET Accredited: While the undergraduate Civil Engineering program at The Catholic University of America (which includes environmental engineering aspects) is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET, the M.S. in Environmental Engineering program itself is not typically listed as ABET accredited. ABET primarily focuses on undergraduate program accreditation.
Curriculum: The M.S. in Environmental Engineering program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours and offers both a thesis and a coursework-only option. The curriculum covers a wide range of specialized areas crucial for environmental protection and management. Key areas of concentration typically include: Water Quality and Treatment, Wastewater Engineering, Air Pollution Control, Solid and Hazardous Waste Management, Environmental Hydrology and Water Resources, Environmental Modeling, and Sustainable Engineering. Courses include topics such as physico-chemical processes, biological processes, environmental chemistry, environmental modeling, and design of environmental systems. Students also engage in laboratory studies and advanced engineering analysis relevant to environmental problems.
Research Focus: The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Catholic University has a strong research focus on critical environmental issues. Research areas align with the program's concentrations, including water quality and treatment, wastewater engineering, air pollution control, solid and hazardous waste management, environmental hydrology and water resources, and sustainable engineering. Faculty are actively involved in research projects often related to mitigating pollution, developing sustainable solutions, and improving environmental quality. The emphasis is on equipping students with the ability to conduct rigorous scientific and engineering analysis to solve complex environmental problems and contribute to the advancement of sustainable practices.
Industry Engagement: The M.S. in Environmental Engineering program at Catholic University maintains strong ties with relevant industries, government agencies, and environmental organizations, particularly benefiting from its location in Washington, D.C. This proximity offers unique opportunities for students to engage with federal agencies (like the EPA, USGS), environmental consulting firms, public utility companies, and non-profit environmental advocacy groups. The curriculum is designed to meet the evolving demands of the environmental engineering sector, and faculty members often bring practical experience from the field into the classroom. The program prepares graduates for immediate impact in environmental consulting, government regulation, public works, and research roles.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Environmental Engineering program inherently incorporates a strong global perspective, as environmental challenges like climate change, water scarcity, and pollution are global in nature and transcend national borders. The principles of sustainable development, environmental protection, and resource management are universally applicable. The curriculum equips students to analyze and develop solutions for these complex global issues, preparing them to contribute to international efforts in environmental sustainability. The university's broader commitment to social justice and the common good also encourages a comprehensive understanding of global environmental stewardship.
Location
Washington, D.C
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 34570
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
The Catholic University of America (CUA) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities to support international students in their pursuit of higher education. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, making CUA an attractive destination for talented students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: CUA provides merit scholarships to international students based on their academic achievements and overall profile. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable each year, provided students maintain satisfactory academic performance. Scholarships are awarded automatically during the admission process or through a separate application depending on the program.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While need-based financial aid for international students is limited due to federal regulations, CUA offers institutional grants and assistance based on demonstrated financial need. International students are encouraged to provide comprehensive financial documentation to be considered for these awards.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain departments and colleges within CUA offer specialized scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields such as theology, law, engineering, or music. These awards often recognize outstanding talent or the discipline and may include research stipends or assistantships.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: Graduate international students have access to assistantships and fellowships that provide tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for teaching, research, or administrative support. These opportunities not only help finance education but also provide valuable professional experience.
External Scholarships and Resources: CUA encourages international students to seek scholarships from external organizations, foundations, and government programs in their home countries. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on identifying and applying for such opportunities.
Graduates of The Catholic University of America's M.S. in Environmental Engineering program are highly skilled professionals who can design solutions to complex environmental problems. Their expertise in pollution control, water management, and sustainable practices makes them essential in a wide array of sectors.
Environmental Engineer (Consulting): Working for engineering consulting firms, advising clients on environmental compliance, pollution prevention, waste management, and site remediation projects.
Water Resources Engineer: Designing and managing systems for water supply, wastewater treatment, stormwater management, and flood control, ensuring clean and sustainable water resources.
Air Quality Engineer: Developing strategies and technologies to control air pollution from industrial sources, monitor air quality, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Solid Waste Management Engineer: Designing and managing systems for the collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes, often for municipal or private waste management companies.
Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Manager: Ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards within industrial facilities, corporations, or government agencies.
Sustainability Engineer: Developing and implementing sustainable practices in design, manufacturing, and operations to reduce environmental impact and improve resource efficiency for companies or municipalities.
Environmental Regulatory Specialist: Working for government agencies (e.g., EPA, state environmental departments) to develop, interpret, and enforce environmental regulations and permits.
Hydrologist/Hydrogeologist: Studying the movement and distribution of water (surface and groundwater) to assess water availability, predict flood risks, and address groundwater contamination issues.
Remediation Engineer: Designing and overseeing projects to clean up contaminated sites (e.g., brownfields, hazardous waste sites) using various engineering and scientific techniques.
Research and Development (R&D) Engineer (Environmental): Conducting research to develop new technologies, materials, or processes for environmental protection, pollution control, or resource recovery in academia, government labs, or private industry.
