General Science (M.S.)

Anyone with a B.A. or B.S. degree in environmental studies, geography, earth science, marine science, environmental chemistry, and any other environment-related majors would find the program to be a valuable stepping stone to career advancement.

The significance of the program

This degree prepares high end professionals to lead Pennsylvania and the nation both in the development of new geotechnology used to understand and manage environmental and spatial phenomena, and in the management and application of this technology in corporate and public or private service organizations.

The uniqueness of this program

Students will learn the latest geotechnology (GIS, RS and GPS) and how to apply this technology to the environment-related fields and careers.

Students will also gain valuable professional skills they need in career development, such as environmental communication, written Communication, project management, and leadership.

Career prospects

In 2004, the US Department of Labor identified geotechnology as one of the three most important emerging and evolving fields, along with nanotechnology and biotechnology (Nature, Vol. 727, p376). Job opportunities are growing and diversifying as geospatial technologies prove their value in more areas, including the environmental sciences.

Prospective jobs include: Environmental Manager, Natural Resources Manager, GIS Analyst, Remote Sensing Specialist, Cartographer, Planner, Safety and Emergency Manager, Surveying Manager, Biodiversity Analyst, Ocean Surveys Analyst, Water Quality Analyst and Teacher.