This University one was one of the first institutions I considered for my graduates studies in Environmental Science because of the quality course work as well as the affordability. In particular, what I like was that their graduate program combines learning through both the textbook as well as through a student’s local ecosystems as use as a laboratory in which to gain hand on skills. However, what I disliked is that their Master of Science in Environmental Studies (MSES), which is offered as a web based distance-learning model, is that it requires a student to participate in two on-campus (Vermont) residencies. This would be a hardship for me as an out-of state student.
I chose this program due to the Master's of Science degree and the distance learning program aspect. Overall, I feel that the program is a good one and that the faculty is working towards making the program a great one.
The basic classes have been helpful for the most part. Beginning the program with a class like Bioregionalism really sets the whole program in motion and allows you to realize how you're going to be learning about conservation while taking classes online. While some of the classes were spot on (Natural History Writing, Field Journaling, Env. Communications) and taught me so much - there were others, as with every program, that really fell flat. Another issue would be the range of classes that are currently offered. There are quite a few classes listed in the program of studies that made me choose this school that still have yet to be offered. This was one of the biggest drawbacks of the program for me. Also, again as with other programs, some professors were very involved and helpful but others were quite distant (no pun intended) and were not available to aide students.
Having one weekend each year to visit the campus, meet your classmates and the professors is very nice and always a good time. I will say that unless you are a very vocal student though, you may not be remembered by professors even if you've had a couple of small classes with them.
The thesis aspect of this program was probably the most difficult for me. The communication on when parts of the thesis needed to be completed or the exact requirements for each step were not always clear and answers needed to be sought from multiple people. Even now, as I'm coming close to completing this program, the requirements for graduating are still hazy for me in many ways.
All-in-all though I truly learned a lot from the program. I'm coming from a background of never having worked in this field before (one of the few people in this situation it seems) and so finding an internship and thesis topic were not in any way easy tasks for me - but this program forced me to do it. I've been lucky enough to create some great contacts along the way and I have to believe this degree will help me to get the dream job I've always wanted in this field.
Good luck!
