Environmental Quality Sciences

The Master of Science in Environmental Quality Sciences prepares students to address the challenges of global environmental issues: development of alternative water and energy resources, water and soil pollution treatment, waste recycling, agricultural intensification, environmentally-sustainable pest control and plant protection, and related economics.

The multidisciplinary program is taught by academic staff from the Robert H. Smith Faculty's Environmental Quality and Natural Resources in Agriculture department and the Agricultural Research Center's Volcani Institute. The courses cover broad areas of scientific research, such as: environmental microbiology, ecology, soil and water, economics, weed control, botany and plant protection. The common denominator of these diverse fields is the goal to understand and promote processes that affect and improve the quality of the environment and nurture a sustainable agricultural environment for future generations.

The one-year program leads to a non-thesis Master of Science in Agriculture majoring in Environmental Quality Sciences. After successful completion of the first year, qualified graduates can be reviewed for admission to the thesis track for a second year of studies to earn a thesis degree, and continue for a PhD degree either in Israel or elsewhere. Upon completion of their studies, the majority of alumni return to their home countries, where they hold key positions in industry, education, academics, research, NGOs and government organizations. 

Semester A

• Introduction to Molecular Biology
• Contemporary Approaches to Plant Physiology
• Water Quality Workshop
• Experimental Design and Statistical Analyses + Practice
• Mineral Nutrition of Higher Plants
• Scientific Presentation
• Integrated Pest Management
• Chemistry of the Environment + Practice
• Environmental Economics
• Biotechnology for Agricultural Crops

Semester B

• Basic Irrigation Systems
• Reclaimed Water and Environmental Aspects
• Aquatic Geochemistry 
• Biological Control of Agricultural Pests 
• Ecological Principles in Spatial Conservation Planning
• Environmental Microbiology
• Microbial Ecology of Aquaculture Systems
• Weed Management 
• Plant-Microbe Interactions

Semester C

• Research Exercise
• Seminar

We welcome applications from international students from all over the globe!

In order to apply to Graduate Studies at the Hebrew University you are required to meet the following prerequisites:

1. Bachelors degree from a recognized university

2. "B" average in undergraduate studies or its equivalent.

These are the minimum admission requirements. Many departments are selective and require a higher grade average.

3. Additional exams may be required, such as the GRE or GMAT. 

4. Knowledge of English:

All candidates are required to meet English proficiency requirements as listed in the program website. TOEFL and IELTS are recognized.

The Department Admissions Committee takes the final decisions after review of the candidate’s academic achievements.

More information on specific admission requirements is available in the program website.