Programs - Ecological Sciences and Engineering - Interdisciplinary Graduate Program, C4E at Discovery Park

The primary mission of the Ecological Sciences & Engineering Interdisciplinary Graduate Program (ESE-IGP) is to provide students with educational and research experiences that integrate engineering and science concepts to solve major environmental problems using an ecological approach. Here, we define “science” as observation/monitoring of systems and elucidation of processes/phenomena at appropriate scales, while “engineering” is defined the design of a system--based on scientific understanding—which mitigates a problem of interest. Thus, the discipline departments provide the foundation while the new graduate program promotes complementary integrating themes. This program will also serve as a catalyst to promote collaborative inter-disciplinary environmental and ecological research among Purdue University faculty members.

Students choose a primary for their graduate studies. Each theme draws from several core course areas, with flexibility built in allowing the student and their committee to tailor their plan of study in relation to their specific focus area or unique area of research. Students have an office in their affiliated "home" department, normally that of their major faculty advisor. Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin communicating with our faculty early in the process. Review our faculty.

The ESE program offers 3 degree options:

Masters research thesis
A traditional two year research thesis program providing solid scientific background and knowledge to enter research positions or prepare for the PhD.
Masters non-thesis (for Professionals)
A one year (or longer as part-time) non-thesis program designed to provide students and professionals a competitive edge to compete for positions in government, industry, and private-sector organizations, or to enhance thier current career.
Doctoral program
The Ph.D. program emphasizes interdisciplinary research into complex environmental issues, with projects supervised by faculty from more than one department.

Note from the Program Head

"If we acknowledge the value of protecting and promoting the natural environment, we can inspire lasting changes in attitudes that lead to sustaining our long-term health and the planet on which we depend."

Dr. Linda S. Lee

Helpful Links

Graduate School Resources

Faculty research interest search engine

Funding Opportunities

Center for the Environment

Division of Environmental and Ecological Engineering

Pre-Environmental Studies B.S.