M.S. in Management of Information and Technology
The M.S. in Management of Information and Technology at OU is designed for individuals ...
Master of Environmental Science
Norman, Oklahoma
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.E.S. at OU is a 30-credit-hour graduate program that can be completed in approximately 21-24 months. It is particularly notable for its online Master of Environmental Science in Hydrology and Water Security, an innovative partnership across multiple colleges. This specific online program offers a core curriculum alongside three specialized concentrations: Water Management, Water Quality, and Water Quantity. The broader M.E.S. program (which may also have on-campus options and other specializations depending on departmental offerings) aims to build knowledge and prepare students for a variety of careers by providing a postgraduate academic qualification demonstrating high-level expertise in environmental science.
STEM Designated: Yes, the Master of Environmental Science in Hydrology and Water Security offered online by the University of Oklahoma is a STEM-designated program. This is a significant advantage for international students, as it qualifies them for a 24-month Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension beyond the initial 12 months, totaling up to 36 months of work authorization in the U.S. after graduation. This designation highlights the program's strong quantitative, analytical, and technical foundation, aligning it with high-demand fields in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.E.S. is deeply interdisciplinary, integrating physical, biological, social, and information sciences to study the environment. For the Hydrology and Water Security specialization, core courses include "Fundamentals of Project Management." The concentrations delve into specific topics: the Water Management concentration covers "Fundamental Hydrology," "Water Economics," and "Water Reuse"; the Water Quality concentration includes "Hydrology," "Hazardous and Solid Waste Management," and "Water Quality Modeling"; and the Water Quantity concentration features "Hydrology," "Water Resources Management," and "Groundwater and Seepage." The broader M.E.S. may include courses in environmental problem analysis, environmental chemistry, ecology, and environmental transport and fate processes.
Research Focus: Research is a core component of the M.E.S. program, focusing on expanding student knowledge relative to the processes governing the natural environment and the impacts of human activities. Faculty from various disciplines, including civil and environmental engineering, environmental science, hydrology, chemistry, and ecology, collaborate on research efforts. Key research areas include water security, climate change impacts on hydrologic cycles, water quality monitoring, and numerical modeling of environmental systems. Students are encouraged to engage in basic laboratory studies, field applications, and numerical modeling, contributing to a deeper understanding of complex environmental challenges.
Industry Engagement: The University of Oklahoma's M.E.S. program, especially the Hydrology and Water Security specialization, emphasizes preparing students for strong career growth in water-based industries. The program's faculty includes both world-class academics and "professors of practice" (industry experts), ensuring that the curriculum is advanced and relevant to current industry needs. Students have opportunities to build professional networks through the global OU alumni community and are equipped with skills highly sought after in the growing and evolving field of environmental science, particularly within water-related sectors. The interdisciplinary nature of the program provides a unique perspective for industry professionals seeking to lead innovations.
Global Perspective: The Master of Environmental Science at OU inherently embraces a strong global perspective, acknowledging that environmental challenges, particularly those related to water security, are global in scope. The curriculum addresses worldwide issues, such as water as a globally recognized valued natural resource. The program prepares graduates to understand and address complex environmental problems that transcend national boundaries, considering global economic, environmental, and societal contexts. OU's diverse student body and faculty contribute to a multicultural learning environment that enriches discussions and provides insights into international environmental policies, practices, and sustainable solutions with a global impact.
Location
Norman, Oklahoma
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 22582
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $100
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% 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 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 60 or higher.
The University of Oklahoma offers a variety of scholarships specifically designed to support international students in achieving their academic goals. These scholarships aim to recognize outstanding academic achievements, leadership qualities, and contributions to the campus community while helping to make education more affordable for students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: OU awards several merit-based scholarships to incoming international undergraduate students based on academic excellence, standardized test scores, and extracurricular accomplishments. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are automatically considered during the admissions process or require a separate application.
International Ambassador Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate strong leadership skills, a commitment to cultural exchange, and active participation in university life. Recipients often serve as ambassadors for OU’s international community, promoting diversity and inclusion.
Graduate Fellowships and Assistantships: For international graduate students, OU offers numerous fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships. These positions provide financial support in the form of tuition waivers and stipends while offering valuable professional experience in academic and research settings.
Country-Specific Scholarships: OU periodically partners with governments, foundations, and organizations to offer scholarships targeting students from specific countries or regions. These scholarships foster international collaboration and cultural exchange.
External Scholarships and Financial Aid Resources: In addition to university-funded awards, OU provides guidance and resources to help international students find external scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities available through private organizations, embassies, and international agencies.
A Master of Environmental Science (M.E.S.) from the University of Oklahoma (OU) provides graduates with an interdisciplinary foundation to address complex environmental issues. This STEM-designated program, particularly known for its specialization in Hydrology and Water Security, prepares students with advanced analytical and problem-solving skills to foster a more sustainable future. Graduates are equipped for diverse roles in government, private industry, and non-profit sectors, applying scientific knowledge to real-world environmental challenges.
Environmental Scientist: Conducting research, collecting and analyzing environmental data, and developing strategies to address pollution, climate change, and natural resource management. They often work for government agencies, research institutions, or environmental consulting firms.
Water Resources Specialist/Hydrologist: Focusing on the scientific study of water, including its distribution, movement, and quality. They analyze water data, model hydrological processes, assess water availability, manage water supplies, and address issues related to water security and quality.
Environmental Consultant: Advising businesses, government bodies, and non-profit organizations on environmental regulations, sustainability practices, risk assessment, and remediation strategies. They conduct site assessments, develop environmental impact reports, and provide solutions to environmental problems.
Sustainability Manager/Specialist: Leading efforts within organizations to integrate sustainable practices into operations, supply chains, and product development. They work on reducing environmental footprints, developing renewable energy strategies, and promoting corporate social responsibility.
Environmental Policy Analyst: Researching and evaluating environmental policies and regulations at local, national, or international levels. They assess the effectiveness of policies, recommend changes, and contribute to the development of new environmental legislation for government agencies or advocacy groups.
Environmental Compliance Officer: Ensuring that organizations adhere to environmental laws, regulations, and permits. They conduct inspections, audits, and investigations, and advise on corrective actions to maintain compliance with environmental standards.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Analyst: Using GIS software and technology to create, manage, analyze, and map spatial environmental data. They develop tools and models for environmental monitoring, resource management, land-use planning, and hazard assessment.
Conservation Scientist: Working to protect and manage natural resources, including parks, forests, wetlands, and wildlife habitats. They conduct ecological studies, develop conservation plans, and often work for government agencies, non-profit conservation organizations, or research institutions.
Remediation Specialist: Designing and overseeing projects to clean up contaminated sites (soil, water, air). They identify pollutants, develop treatment strategies, and manage the implementation of remediation technologies to restore environmental health.
Environmental Educator/Outreach Coordinator: Developing and delivering educational programs to raise public awareness about environmental issues, promote sustainable practices, and engage communities in conservation efforts. They often work for non-profits, government agencies, or educational institutions.
