Learning Outcomes for Graduate Students

Students who complete the Environmental Studies (MA) program will demonstrate significant progress towards the following learning outcomes:

• An understanding of, and the ability to apply, the scientific method, and the capacity to design and conduct a relevant research investigation using qualitative and quantitative techniques;
• The ability to understand and apply systems analysis and simulation modeling techniques to environmental education, management, or research;
• advanced ability to use appropriate technologies (statistical analyses, geographic information systems, field and laboratory techniques);
• An understanding of geologic, biological, chemical, physical, and evolutionary processes and their impact on ecosystems;
• A strong foundation in ecological principles and their application to the description and interpretation of environmental systems;
• An understanding of anthropogenic impacts on ecosystems;
• Knowledge of local plant and animal communities and ecosystem dynamics, and the ability to translate this understanding to regional and global levels;
• Knowledge and field skills in identifying and investigating a core cluster of life groups;
• Expertise in a limited group of organisms, or ecosystems.
• an understanding of the concept of sustainability and its application to the formation and implementation of public policy, decision making, problem identification, ethical dilemmas, creative problem solving, and conflict resolution,
• The ability to function in a professional setting; and
• Respect for the environment and all life within it, and recognition of the many ways of knowing the environment.