Environmental engineers design solutions that prevent future pollution as well as correct existing pollution problems. The undergraduate curriculum in Environmental Engineering is based on a strong foundation in physical, chemical, and biological sciences, mathematics, and engineering fundamentals. The All-University Core Curriculum provides a broad background in communication, liberal arts, humanities, and social sciences. Upper-division courses address engineering applications for prevention and control of air, water, and land pollution. Required courses that are specific to the Environmental Engineering major come from several engineering and science disciplines, including organic and environmental chemistry, microbiology, hydrology, statistics, environmental toxicology, and water treatment. Technical electives provide specialization in a particular area of interest. Seniors complete the same year-long, capstone design experience as Civil Engineering majors, working in teams on real-world engineering problems.
Participation in student professional societies, other campus organizations, internships, and volunteer activities is highly recommended to foster personal growth and professional development. The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is the first step toward registration as a Professional Engineer, an important professional credential for environmental engineers. Therefore, students are strongly encouraged to take the FE exam prior to graduation. As with the Civil Engineering majors, our graduates consistently achieve a passing rate on the FE exam that is above the national average.