Academics

Environmental Science and Management

PhD • Doctoral

Professor guides a student who reaches under a glass hood to work with materials that require isolation and ventilation

The PhD in Environmental Science and Management at Montclair State University is an interdisciplinary doctoral program designed to prepare you for leadership roles in environmental research, policy, and sustainable management. This STEM designated degree program emphasizes advanced scientific inquiry, environmental modeling, and applied research that addresses complex environmental challenges.

As a PhD candidate, you’ll work closely with expert faculty mentors in research areas such as climate change, ecosystem management, hydrology, environmental toxicology, and sustainability policy. The curriculum combines advanced coursework, doctoral seminars, and independent research leading to a dissertation that contributes to environmental science and management knowledge.

Graduates of this program are prepared for academic careers as university faculty members, high-level environmental management positions, or research leadership roles in government agencies, nonprofits, and private industry. The program provides a strong foundation for shaping environmental policy and implementing science-based solutions for global environmental issues. See the curriculum.

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Program Spotlight

Since 2003, Montclair’s transdisciplinary PhD in Environmental Science and Management has prepared professionals like you to take leadership roles in addressing society’s most complex environmental challenges. Our program is the first of its kind in New Jersey and a leader in the Northeast, uniquely integrating natural and physical sciences with social science, economics, policy, and project management to help you create sustainable, science-based solutions.

Video Spotlight: Environmental Science and Management (PhD)

 

Admission Requirements

  • Equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees: Please visit the international applicants page to review U.S. degree equivalency information.
  • An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher and/or a masters degree with a GPA of 3.3 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
  • Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact possible research advisors and projects prior to submitting an application and solicit letters of reference from university faculty who can specifically address your potential to conduct doctoral-level research.

Application Checklist

  • Application Deadline: December 15th, Fall Admission only
  • Complete applications are reviewed in December and January, with interviews for select candidates in February. Admission decisions (accept, waitlist, decline) follow soon after. Admitted students must respond by April 15; after that date, remaining spots may be offered to waitlisted applicants.
  • Deposit Required: An enrollment deposit is required upon admission and will be applied to your first semester’s tuition.
  • Online Application: Submit application  and $60 non-refundable fee (or waiver if applicable).
  • Transcript: One from each college attended.
  • Essays/Personal Statement: Two.
    • General Statement of Purpose: A strong personal statement will highlight your academic background, research experience, specific interests, and career goals. You should explain your motivation for pursuing a PhD and describe your readiness for doctoral research (2 page maximum)
    • General Statement of Research/Inquiry: Your research statement should describe your general research interests, propose future research directions, and explain how these align with the program’s strengths and faculty expertise. The statement should highlight the significance of the work and its potential impact on the field. The essay should include a list of faculty members with whom you have communicated and who are willing to serve as your research advisor (2 page maximum).
  • Resume: Required. Please include publications, professional reports, and professional presentations.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Three required. These letters should be from university faculty or professional supervisors who can attest to your potential for success in doctoral level research and coursework.
  • Standardized Test Scores: GRE Not Required. Applicants have the option of submitting GRE scores. Any applicant voluntarily choosing to do so should select Montclair State University as the receiving institution on their score report.

Questions? We’re Here to Help.

For more information about the PhD in Environmental Science and Management, advising, or research opportunities, please contact the department or admissions.

Office of Graduate Admissions

Get guidance on every step of the application process, from admission requirements and deadlines to transcripts, test scores and next steps toward enrollment. The Office of Graduate Admissions provides the information and resources needed to put forward a strong application.

Program Coordinator: Dr. Matthew Schuler

Get detailed information about the program itself—from curriculum and faculty expertise to research, internships and career outcomes. The program coordinator can explain how the program connects to your academic and professional goals.

Next Steps

Wherever you learn—on campus or online—Montclair State University offers the programs, community and support to help you reach your goals. Take the next step today.

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