Graduate Program Learning Outcomes (MSEEE and Ph.D.)

The faculty-approved Learning Outcomes for the graduate degree program in Environmental and Ecological Engineering are adapted from the Environmental Engineering Body of Knowledge developed under the auspices of the American Academy of Environmental Engineers & Scientists.

Outcome 1: Basic Environmental Math and Science

Graduates of the Master’s and Ph.D. program in Environmental and Ecological Engineering must have an ability to apply mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, ecology and earth science knowledge to analyze coupled natural and engineered systems and to design, construct and manage strategies that promote stewardship of the environment and ecosystems.

Outcome 2: Design and Conduct Experiments

An experiment is a procedure to take measurements or model a system in order to test or establish understanding of a process. Graduates of the Master’s and Ph.D. program in Environmental and Ecological Engineering must have an ability to design and conduct experiments necessary to gather data and synthesize information for use in analysis and design.

Outcome 3: Use of Modern Engineering Tools

Graduates of the Master’s and Ph.D. program in Environmental and Ecological Engineering must have an ability to apply measurement, modelling, statistical and risk analysis tools and techniques required for engineering practice.

Outcome 4: Risk, Reliability and Uncertainty

Graduates of the Master’s and Ph.D. program in Environmental and Ecological Engineering must have knowledge of the risks associated with human or environmental exposure to contaminants in our environment and incorporate sound uncertainty and reliability principles into engineered systems that are designed and managed for the protection of ecosystems and human health, welfare and safety.

Outcome 5: Problem Formulation and Analysis

Graduates of the Master’s and Ph.D. program in Environmental and Ecological Engineering must have an ability to assess engineering challenges, effectively communicate complex problems, formulate and evaluate alternative management strategies and recommend professionally acceptable solutions.

Outcome 6: Design

Graduates of the Master’s and Ph.D. program in Environmental and Ecological Engineering must have the ability to engage in creative and critical thinking, incorporation of uncertainties and use of engineering judgment to design a system, component or process to meet desired needs for the protection of ecosystems and human health, welfare and safety.

Outcome 7: Sustainability

Graduates of the Master’s and Ph.D. program in Environmental and Ecological Engineering must integrate the principles of sustainability into analysis and design. Constraints imposed by the long-term sustainability of our natural and social systems must be a critical factor in the design and selection of engineered systems.

Outcome 8: Societal Impact and Environmental Policy

Environmental and Ecological Engineers are regularly involved in the implementation of public environmental policy. Graduates of the Master’s and Ph.D. program in Environmental and Ecological Engineering should recognize societal impacts of engineering activities, should communicate these impacts to stakeholders, including policy makers, and should consider stakeholder inputs in developing engineering solutions.

Outcome 9: Globalization and other Contemporary Issues

Graduates of the Master’s and Ph.D. program in Environmental and Ecological Engineering must be able to function in a globalized system of development and delivery of professional services, taking into consideration local cultural norms for values, beliefs, communication and technology. Maintaining awareness of emerging contemporary issues and their impact on the profession is required.

Outcome 10: Thrive in Multi-Disciplinary Teams

The solutions to most engineering problems require the expertise and participation of a variety of disciplines. Graduates of the Master’s and Ph.D. program in Environmental and Ecological Engineering must be able to use management and communication skills to create, manage and/or participate in teams composed of professionals from a broad range of disciplines.

Outcome 11: Professional and Ethical Responsibilities

The National Society of Professional Engineers has published a Code of Ethics for Engineers that applies to Environmental and Ecological Engineering. A fundamental canon of this Code is that engineers “Hold paramount the safety, health and welfare of the public.” Unique to Environmental and Ecological Engineering is the principle that natural ecosystems support human existence and thus service to the public must include the preservation of species and habitats. In addition, environmental and ecological engineers recognize that all of nature has intrinsic value and that ecological stewardship and preventing the destruction of the natural environment is part of their professional responsibility.

Outcome 12: Effective Communication

The environmental and ecological engineer has a critical role interpreting environmental policy issues and the implementing of strategies for protecting public health and the environment. Graduates of the Master’s and Ph.D. program in Environmental and Ecological Engineering must effectively communicate in an appropriate and understandable manner when interacting with the non-technical public as well as the technical community.