The thesis option requires a minimum of 30 semester hours. Of those 30 hours, six semester hours of thesis research are required and at least 12 hours of course work must originate within the area of concentration. Students must also take at least one course each in graduate statistics and research methods.

Non-thesis Option:The non-thesis option is available for students in any concentration who are pursuing their degree through distance education. Students may take any or all of their courses online. The non-thesis option requires a minimum of 33 semester hours of graduate level course work. A minimum of 15 of the semester hours must originate in the student’s area of concentration. Students must also take at least one course each in graduate statistics and research methods. Non-thesis track students are required to pass both written and oral comprehensive exams. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with their advisers and the program website for the sequencing and availability of distance education courses offered by the School of Human Environmental Sciences.