Each student conducts research and completes a thesis or project; each student develops depth in a specific academic area; and each student develops breadth through a set of core courses that include concepts in physical sciences, life sciences, social sciences. MS students will to complete lab or field thesis research. MS theses are based on a hypothesis driven research project that addresses an environmental question. Research may consist of field and/or lab research, though frequently it is a combination of both. MS students are advised primarily by a faculty advisor.