QS Rank:

125

University of Southern California

California
,United States

Program Name
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering

Deadline
September 01st, 2026
Overview
The Master of Science in Environmental Engineering at the University of Southern California represents a significant opportunity for those looking to delve deep into the multifaceted world of environmental studies. This program is meticulously designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to address pressing environmental issues, such as pollution, waste management, and sustainable resource utilization. With a curriculum that blends theoretical understanding with practical applications, students will gain insights into how engineering principles can be applied to create effective solutions for environmental challenges.
The comprehensive curriculum is structured to cover vital areas such as water resources management, air quality control, and hazardous waste management. Students will engage in courses that emphasize the importance of sustainability and the role of technology in improving environmental outcomes. Notably, the program includes advanced coursework and research opportunities focused on emerging fields like renewable energy systems and environmental policy analysis. This integration of various disciplines prepares graduates to adopt holistic approaches to environmental engineering.
At the heart of the program is a strong focus on experiential learning. The Viterbi School of Engineering at USC provides students with access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities that foster innovation and hands-on practice. Faculty members are not just educators; they are professionals with extensive experience in their fields, bringing real-world insights into the classroom. Students often have the chance to collaborate with faculty on groundbreaking research projects, gaining invaluable experience that can set them apart in the job market.
The program also emphasizes building connections within the industry. With an extensive network of partnerships with leading organizations, students benefit from internship opportunities that provide practical experience and facilitate career transitions. This exposure to the professional realm not only enhances learning but also increases employability post-graduation. Graduates from the program have gone on to pursue fulfilling careers in various sectors, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private industry, where they tackle real-world environmental issues.
Alumni testimonials reflect the program's success in shaping careers. Many graduates highlight their experiences during and after the program, emphasizing how the skills gained at USC have empowered them to take on leadership roles in their respective fields. The rich array of career pathways available, ranging from environmental consultants to sustainability managers, showcases the versatility of the degree. As the demand for environmental engineers continues to rise, graduates find themselves well-prepared to make significant contributions to society and the environment.
Why Study Environmental Engineering at the University of Southern California
- A diverse and inclusive community that fosters collaboration among international students, enhancing cultural exchange and broadening perspectives.
- Access to world-renowned faculty who are leaders in the field of environmental engineering and provide mentorship opportunities through research assistantships.
- Modern laboratories and research facilities that are equipped with cutting-edge technology to support innovative research and practical learning experiences.
- Robust career services that include excellent placement programs, career fairs, and networking opportunities to assist students in transitioning into successful careers.
The application requirements for the Master of Science in Environmental Engineering program include a completed application form, a non-refundable application fee of $90, and official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Additionally, applicants are expected to submit letters of recommendation and a personal statement outlining their academic and professional intentions. While specific prerequisites may vary, a background in engineering, environmental science, or a related field is beneficial for prospective students.
International students must also demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests. Acceptable test scores include a minimum of 6.5 on the IELTS, 90 on the TOEFL, or 61 on the PTE. This ensures that all students can actively participate in the rigorous academic environment at USC.
The tuition fee for the Master of Science in Environmental Engineering is approximately $32,326 per year. While this investment is significant, the potential return in terms of career opportunities and earning potential makes it a wise choice for many students. The university also offers various financial aid options to help alleviate costs for deserving candidates.
In conclusion, the Master of Science in Environmental Engineering at the University of Southern California stands out as a premier program for individuals looking to make an impact in the field of environmental engineering. With a robust curriculum, experienced faculty, and extensive industry connections, students are positioned to become leaders who can innovate and drive positive environmental change. Whether you aspire to work within governmental agencies, non-profits, or the private sector, this program equips you with the tools necessary to succeed in a fast-evolving field. Make the decision to invest in your future today, and explore the transformative opportunities available through USC's Master of Science in Environmental Engineering.

Duration
24 Months
Ranking
#80
US World and News Report
#65
The World University Rankings
#125
QS World University Rankings

Intake
Fall ( Sept - Nov )

Intake
Spring ( Apr - June )
Class Profile
Career Outcomes

Job Placement
67%
Prospective Job Roles
Consultant
Software Engineer
Structural Engineer
Environmental Scientist
Project Engineer
Transportation Engineer I
Civil Engineering Associate
Top recruiters







Eligibility Criteria

Accepted fields include Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering.

At least 3.0 / 4.0 undergraduate GPA is expected.
English Proficiency Tests
TOEFL
90

IELTS
6.5

PTE
61

Duolingo
120

Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

Application Fee: 105

Transcript

Resume

English Proficiency Test

Master SOP

Academic LOR

Lor Document
Application Deadlines
| Final | Regular | Final Deadline | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Sep 1, 2026 | Sep 1, 2025 | N/A |
| Fall | Jan 15, 2027 | N/A | Jan 15, 2026 |
Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees
$37,310 / year

Overall Cost
$59,651 / year
FAQs
The comprehensive curriculum is structured to cover vital areas such as:
- Water resources management
- Air quality control
- Hazardous waste management
Students engage in courses that emphasize the importance of sustainability and the role of technology in improving environmental outcomes. The program also includes advanced coursework and research opportunities focused on emerging fields like:
- Renewable energy systems
- Environmental policy analysis
This integration of various disciplines prepares graduates to adopt holistic approaches to environmental engineering.
The program emphasizes experiential learning, which is at the heart of the educational approach. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities that foster innovation and hands-on practice. Faculty members are not only educators but also professionals with extensive experience, providing real-world insights into the classroom.
Additionally, students often collaborate with faculty on groundbreaking research projects, gaining invaluable experience that enhances their learning and prepares them for the job market.
Graduates from the Master of Science in Environmental Engineering program have pursued fulfilling careers across various sectors, including:
- Government agencies
- Non-profit organizations
- Private industry
Alumni testimonials indicate that the skills gained at USC empower graduates to take on leadership roles, and the rich array of career pathways available includes positions such as:
- Environmental consultants
- Sustainability managers
As the demand for environmental engineers continues to rise, graduates find themselves well-prepared to contribute significantly to society and the environment.
Key highlights of the program include:
- A diverse and inclusive community that enhances cultural exchange among international students.
- Access to world-renowned faculty who are leaders in the field and provide mentorship opportunities through research assistantships.
- Modern laboratories and research facilities equipped with cutting-edge technology.
- Robust career services, including excellent placement programs, career fairs, and networking opportunities.
These elements contribute to a rich educational experience and prepare students for successful careers in environmental engineering.
The program emphasizes building connections within the industry through an extensive network of partnerships with leading organizations. This network provides students with valuable internship opportunities that offer practical experience and facilitate career transitions.
Such exposure to the professional realm not only enhances learning but also significantly increases employability post-graduation, preparing students for successful careers in environmental engineering.
The program attracts a diverse and inclusive community of students, including many international students. This diversity fosters collaboration and enhances cultural exchange, broadening perspectives among students.
While specific backgrounds may vary, students with a background in engineering, environmental science, or related fields often find themselves well-prepared for the challenges of the program.
Unique aspects of the program include:
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities that support innovative research and practical learning experiences.
- Collaboration with experienced faculty who bring real-world insights and mentorship to students.
- Extensive industry connections that facilitate internships and enhance career opportunities.
These elements, combined with a rigorous curriculum and a focus on sustainability, distinguish USC's program as a premier choice for those looking to make an impact in environmental engineering.
The application requirements for the Master of Science in Environmental Engineering program include:
- A completed application form.
- A non-refundable application fee of $90.
- Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
- Letters of recommendation.
- A personal statement outlining academic and professional intentions.
While specific prerequisites may vary, a background in engineering, environmental science, or a related field is beneficial for prospective students.
The tuition fee for the Master of Science in Environmental Engineering is approximately $32,326 per year. While this investment is significant, it is important to consider the potential return in terms of career opportunities and earning potential.
The university also offers various financial aid options to help alleviate costs for deserving candidates, making the program more accessible to a broader range of students.
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