The M.S. degree prepares one for professional work relating to the earth, atmosphere and environment, or for further work leading to a doctorate. The degree may also be valuable to teachers of science in secondary schools and community colleges. Teachers and prospective teachers, if not already licensed, will be expected to obtain the necessary requisites for licensure in Illinois
The department welcomes applications from students with wide ranging interests and from varied backgrounds.
All new students who are admitted to a program are required to consult with the department's director of graduate studies before registering for courses. The coordinator will assist students in identifying an appropriate advisor who will form a committee to arrange a program of study. A student must choose either a thesis or a non-thesis option, subject to the consent of the advisor and graduate committee. A student whose background is deficient may be required to take additional course work at the undergraduate level. Deficiencies should be resolved in the first year and do not normally carry graduate credit toward the degree.
Check departmental information for additional requirements.
The student learning outcomes for this degree are located at http://www.niu.edu/assessment/clearinghouse/outcomes/index.shtml.

