Environmental Engineering

Environmental Engineering at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students to address the pressing environmental challenges of our time. This program combines fundamental principles of engineering, science, and environmental management to equip graduates with the skills necessary to develop sustainable solutions for water, air, soil, and waste management. Students will engage in coursework that covers topics such as fluid mechanics, chemistry, biology, environmental systems, risk assessment, and pollution control. The curriculum emphasizes practical, hands-on learning through laboratory experiments, fieldwork, and design projects, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.

The program also offers opportunities for research collaborations and internships with government agencies, consulting firms, and industries, providing valuable industry experience. Faculty members are actively involved in cutting-edge research related to water resources, environmental health, and sustainable engineering practices, fostering an innovative academic environment. Graduates of the Environmental Engineering program at UNL are well-prepared for careers in environmental consulting, government agencies, research institutions, or for pursuing advanced studies in the field. The program aims to cultivate environmentally responsible engineering professionals committed to improving public health and preserving natural resources. With a solid foundation in technical expertise and ethical responsibility, students are empowered to make meaningful contributions to environmental protection, policy development, and sustainable development initiatives locally and globally.

Working with their advisers, students are expected to formulate coherent programs of research and study as they work toward a degree under Option I (thesis) or Option II (no thesis). Any student receiving support as a teaching and/or research assistant from the program is expected to enroll under Option I and complete a thesis. 

All students are required to complete: 

Students having equivalent courses from a previous degree program may substitute or waive a core course or courses, with the written approval of the M.S. EnvE Graduate Committee.< 

• To begin candidacy for an M.S. EnvE, a student must have completed an ABET accredited undergraduate degree in engineering, or have a B.S. in a physical or biological science and have completed specified core course requirements at the undergraduate level. 
• The M.S. EnvE Program admits, with a provisional status, students without an engineering background that have exceptional grade point averages, references, and/or professional experience. In addition to the normal requirements for the M.S. degree, such students must take (or have taken elsewhere) several undergraduate level background courses, as detailed below. A non-engineer should expect to devote a longer time to the M.S. degree program than a graduate student with an engineering degree. 
• International applicants who have not graduated from an ABET or CAB accredited undergraduate engineering program in the United States or Canada must take the TOEFL and the verbal and quantitative sections of the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). Those international applicants must achieve a TOEFL score of 550 (paper) or 80 (internet) and a minimum equivalent ranking of 75 percent on the quantitative portion of the GRE examination. 
• GRE
• Three letters of recommendation (Ph.D. and M.S.)
• Resume or curriculum vitae (Ph.D. and M.S.)
• Statement of purpose (Ph.D. and M.S.)

The Environmental Engineering program at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Students enrolled in the program can benefit from a combination of scholarships, financial aid, work-study opportunities, and student loans to help offset the cost of education. The university provides merit-based scholarships for incoming freshmen and transfer students, which are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and potential contributions to the university community. These scholarships do not require a separate application beyond the general admission process and can significantly reduce the financial burden for qualifying students.

In addition to scholarships, the university participates in federal and state financial aid programs. Eligible students can apply for need-based federal aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application determines the student's financial need and eligibility for grants, such as the Pell Grant, which do not require repayment, as well as federal student loans. The university also offers institutional loans and work-study opportunities, allowing students to earn money while gaining practical experience related to their field of study.

Graduate students in the Environmental Engineering program may have access to research assistantships and teaching assistantships. These positions provide a stipend and often include a tuition waiver, enabling students to reduce their educational expenses substantially. Funding opportunities are typically competitive and are awarded based on academic performance and research interests. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek external fellowships and grants through professional organizations and government agencies specializing in environmental research and engineering.

The university's financial services department provides comprehensive counseling to help students explore all available financing options. They offer guidance on budgeting, debt management, and planning for post-graduate employment to ensure students can manage their financial commitments effectively. Overall, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln strives to make environmental engineering education accessible and affordable through diverse funding avenues, fostering an environment where students can focus on their academic and professional development without undue financial stress.

Environmental Engineering at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is an interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students to address complex environmental challenges through innovative engineering solutions. The curriculum combines fundamental principles of civil, chemical, and mechanical engineering with specialized courses in water resources, air quality, waste management, and environmental systems. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, field studies, and project-based learning, enabling them to develop practical skills in environmental assessment, pollution control, sustainable design, and risk analysis. The program emphasizes the importance of sustainable development and environmental stewardship, integrating current issues such as climate change, renewable energy, and pollution mitigation into the learning experience. Faculty members are recognized experts who provide personalized mentorship and support research opportunities in areas like water treatment, environmental impact assessment, and environmental policy. The university offers state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with advanced instrumentation for real-world problem solving. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in government agencies, consulting firms, industry, and nonprofit organizations, contributing to environmental protection and resource management. They are also equipped for postgraduate study or professional certification in environmental engineering and related fields. The program fosters an inclusive academic community and encourages participation in internships, co-curricular activities, and professional development events. With a strong foundation in engineering principles, environmental science, and ethical practices, students are empowered to develop innovative solutions that promote sustainability and improve quality of life. The faculty collaborates with industry partners and government agencies to ensure the curriculum remains aligned with current industry standards and emerging environmental challenges. Overall, the Environmental Engineering program at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln provides a comprehensive education that prepares graduates to make meaningful contributions to environmental preservation and sustainable development on local, national, and global scales.