COURSE CURRICULUM

Acadia’s Master of Science in Environmental Science is a two-year, in-person program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in research methods and specialized knowledge in environmental science. The program emphasizes a close working relationship between students and their supervisors, allowing for tailored guidance throughout the research process. In the first term, students take a core course on research methods in environmental science, which prepares them with the skills necessary to conduct rigorous scientific inquiry. Alongside this, students select special topics courses that focus on current and emerging issues within the field, offering opportunities to deepen their understanding of specific areas of interest. Throughout the program, students dedicate significant time to their thesis research, which forms the core of their graduate studies.In the second term, students continue their thesis work while choosing electives from a variety of related disciplines, including biology, geology, chemistry, or environmental science. These electives allow students to broaden their expertise and complement their thesis research with interdisciplinary perspectives. The combination of focused research and diverse coursework ensures that students develop both depth and breadth in their knowledge. The third term is primarily devoted to advancing thesis research, providing students with the time and support to make significant progress toward completing their work.During the second year, students focus exclusively on thesis completion, with continued supervision and mentorship. This concentrated effort enables them to refine their research findings and prepare for the defense of their thesis. Graduates of this program leave well-prepared for careers in environmental management, policy, research, and related fields, or for further graduate study. Overall, the Master of Science in Environmental Science at Acadia offers a balanced mix of coursework and hands-on research experience within a supportive academic environment.