The Ph.D. In Environmental Science

Florida Tech's doctoral program in environmental science creates graduates who are experts in the biological and chemical fundamentals of natural environmental systems. The multidisciplinary PhD in environmental science gives students the background necessary to meet the needs of the numerous career opportunities in academics, government agencies, private consulting, and nonprofit organizations. The university's prime location near diverse ecosystems, such as the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, makes it an ideal choice to study environmental science.

Multidisciplinary Curriculum

Providing technical knowledge in the industry, as well as field experience in a wealth of research opportunities, Florida Tech's PhD in environment science is a curriculum emphasizing biological, chemical, and remote-sensing studies. As highly skilled experts, graduates with a PhD in environmental science are ready to immerse themselves in every aspect of the field, researching and analyzing data to provide solutions for the problems facing the natural environment. At Florida Tech, students work in real environmental programs and contribute in a meaningful way.

A Hands-On Program

The PhD in environmental science involves fieldwork that puts students in the environments in which they plan to work in the future. Students have access to numerous research labs, centers and institutes as well as small boats and ocean-going vessels for data collection and analysis. Having access to nearby ecosystems, including the Atlantic Ocean, the diverse estuarine habitats of the Indian River Lagoon, and the area's other natural resources, gives students a unique experience of a variety of environments to develop the skills they need to become environmental scientists. With faculty who bring a wealth of experience to the classroom, and a culture that empowers graduates to be future leaders, Florida Tech offers doctoral students the perfect setting in which to prepare for the complex environmental issues they'll face in their careers.

Personalized Learning Environment

Class sizes are small, promoting a close-knit academic community where students enjoy individualized attention and mentorship from their professors. Students have access to numerous research labs, centers, and institutes, as well as a fleet of aircraft and ocean vessels for hands-on study experiences. Working closely with advisors, students research and develop their dissertation, with the expectation that their results will be published in peer-reviewed journals.

Research Opportunities

Research is a top priority for students seeking a PhD in environmental science. As a doctoral candidate, students pursue advanced academic studies in the use, control, and preservation of environmental resources and the enhancement of the quality of life. With a strong background in biological, chemical, and physical sciences, laboratory and coursework is designed to prepare graduates who can provide solutions to companies in the private sector, and in local, state, and federal agencies. The capstone research project can involve many topics in the field including offshore oil spills and drilling impacts, ecological surveys, rising sea levels, and more.

Students can also enhance their knowledge and professional connections with participation in the Student Organization for Sustainability Action and Florida Tech Environmental Club, both dedicated to environmental awareness and sustainability practices.

High-Tech Laboratory Facilities

The undergraduate program in environmental science requires state-of-the-art facilities, and Florida Tech delivers. Some of those facilities are located in the F. W. Olin Physical Sciences Center and Instrumentation Center, and the F.W. Olin Life Sciences Building. The Center for High Resolution Microscopy and Imaging is housed in Life Sciences. An aquarium facility in the L3Harris Center provides opportunities for small-scale experimentation under environmentally controlled conditions. The Ralph S. Evinrude Marine Operations Center gives students and faculty direct access to the Indian River Lagoon. The Center for Remote Sensing encourages excellence in the development and application of remote-sensing science and technology.

Great Florida Location

Many professionals in the PhD in environmental science program are working in the field. The university's location also attracts students from around the world for access to Florida's subtropical climate that offers year-round warm weather and proximity to many diverse ecosystems.

Careers

Graduates with a PhD in environmental science are well prepared for rewarding careers as academics, consultants, and managers. Our graduates work for public, private, and nonprofit agencies such as the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the Environmental Protection Agency, state environmental agencies, solid waste management, law firms, Greenpeace, and the National Wildlife Federation.