Environmental Engineering & Earth Sciences Ph.D.
Solve Complex Environmental Challenges
Our world faces increasingly complex challenges, from contaminated water supplies and hazardous waste to population growth and limited natural resources. The Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences at Clemson University is designed to prepare researchers and leaders who can address these issues through an interdisciplinary approach that integrates engineering, science, and environmental systems.
Advance Sustainable Solutions
Through a combination of advanced coursework and research, students gain a deep understanding of the interactions between natural processes and human activity. Drawing on principles from biology, chemistry, physics, geology, mathematics, and engineering, graduates are equipped to develop innovative solutions that:
- Protect and improve air, water, and soil quality
- Safeguard public health and environmental systems
- Design sustainable products, processes, and infrastructure
- Advance energy and resource management strategies
- Understand and respond to the forces shaping our planet
This program prepares graduates to lead in academia, industry, and government, driving meaningful change toward a more sustainable and resilient future.
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EEES Curriculum
This degree requires a minimum of 30 credits beyond the master's degree and at least 60 credits beyond the bachelor's degree. A minimum of 12 credit hours of non-research coursework and a minimum of 18 hours of dissertation research are required. All resident Ph.D. students must register for EES 9610 - Environmental Engineering and Science Doctoral Student Seminar for each available term. Each student's Ph.D. curriculum and research program is tailored to suit their personal and professional goals.
Ph.D. students must complete a well-founded dissertation based on original research, demonstrating they have a grasp of the subject matter and are competent in planning and conducting research. Qualifying, comprehensive, and final examinations are required. Ultimately, only the student's advisory committee can certify that the student has earned this degree.
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Applying to the Ph.D. Program
Graduate Degree
Pursuing a Ph.D. degree in Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences (EEES) takes time and effort. Applicants should reach out to professors in the EEES department with similar research interests as themselves. It is essential to find a research advisor who will guide the Ph.D. student well. Visit the profile page of each professor and send an email to those involved in areas of interest. For questions about this process, contact the Graduate Program Coordinator.
For admission to the Ph.D. program, an applicant should have a grade point ratio/average (GPR/GPA) of at least 3.0 out of 4.0. The applicant must have a faculty member who has agreed to be the research advisor before final admission.
How to Apply
Students with a baccalaureate or master’s degree in a related science or engineering field may apply directly to the Ph.D. EEES program. Students with exceptional records and experience in research will be considered for the Ph.D. degree without a master's degree. However, most students admitted to the Ph.D. program will have previously earned their M.S. degree. Qualified students from Clemson University also may be accepted for continued study from either the M.S. Hydrogeology degree program or the M.S. EES program.
