Classes in the master’s degree program are available in both face-to-face and online formats. Although all classes can be completed at a distance, the program is categorized as campus-based. It is possible to complete the degree either by attending classes at the ASU Polytechnic campus or online.

As a result, many of the students in the master’s program are working professionals from across the country or around the world who are typically taking two courses per semester and graduating in two years. The M.S. in ERM has three options: a thesis, an applied project, or coursework only with a comprehensive written exam at the end of the program.

Students come with a variety of undergraduate degrees ranging from the sciences (chemistry, biology, geology, environmental science, and others) to engineering, industrial hygiene, or public policy among others.

GRE Requirement*

As of Fall 2021, the GRE is no longer required for this program.

International applicants must also meet the English proficiency requirements, as defined by Graduate Admissions. Please be sure to review the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE score requirements, as your application will not be processed without valid proof of English proficiency.

ASU students with an undergraduate degree in ERM may share up to 12 hours between their B.S. and M.S. degree program. A separate application is required for this accelerated 4+1 program. To learn more, please visit our accelerated degree program page.

Focus Areas and Concentration

Students in the M.S. in ERM degree can concentrate their studies in two focus areas:

1. Environmental management
2. International environmental management and sustainable development

Effective Fall 2017, a new concentration in Water Management is available. Students are able to apply for a concentration in Water Management or pursue a focus area in either Environmental Management or International Environmental Management and Sustainable Development.

Core classes for the master’s degree with focus areas in Environmental Management or International Environmental Management and Sustainable Development include:

• Environmental Law
• Toxicology
• Chemistry of Hazardous Materials

Course Work

Depending upon the focus area, students also take classes in:

• Air Pollution
• Soils and Groundwater Contamination
• Water/Wastewater Treatment Technologies
• Hazardous Waste Management
• Industrial Hygiene
• Environmental Health
• Environmental Chemistry
• Environmental Leadership
• International Environmental Law and Policy
• International Environmental Management
• Sustainable Development
• Tribal Environmental and Natural Resources Management

Elective coursework from other ASU departments may be included in the program of study upon approval.

Water Management Concentration

Required classes for the concentration include:

• Environmental Law
• Toxicology
• Water Law and Policy
• Water/Wastewater Treatment Technologies
• Soils and Groundwater Contamination

Elective coursework from other ASU departments may be included in the program of study upon approval.

Accelerated bachelor’s and master’s program

This degree is offered as an accelerated degree with the M.S. in Environmental & Resource Management. The accelerated bachelor and master degree is designed to provide selected high-achieving students with the opportunity to combine advanced undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework and accelerate graduate degree completion. This program allow accelerated students to obtain a bachelor’s and master’s degree within five years.

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Eligible students will be advised in their junior and senior years by their academic department to apply. To review eligibility requirements, please visit: Polytechnic School Accelerated 4+1 Degree Programs