Hello All ,
I received my BS in Biology with emphasis in marine and minor in Stats back in 2012. Since then I worked in a few marine labs, worked as an environmental scientist and now a chemist at a material testing lab with some engineers.
I found myself lost the few years and found a liking to the idea of becoming an Environmental Engineer or a Water Resource Engineer. It looks like a great market, with great pay, and looks fun.
Since I am trying to avoid going back for to school for another BS degree, I am looking into applying to grad school for a MS/MA in Environmental Engineering or a Water Resource Engineering. Some program allow non-engineers to apply. I have taken calculus, chemistry, physics, and of course bio and stats. Also have years of experience in material engineering field as well as the environmental science field.
Is this possibly to achieve for me? Or am I doomed? After getting my MS, can I still become a PE?
thank you guys so much for any help!
Im located on the west coast, if that helps.
I’ve got a cousin who has a BS in biology and an MS in environmental engineering, so yes, it can be done. It’s probably not even that uncommon.
Oh really!? How was that process for ur cousin? Are they working as a PE ? If so what state? I know some states have different regulations and was worried california or oregon wont allow me to be a PE if my undergrad wasnt engineering.
I don’t think it was too bad but I don’t know for sure. I have no idea if she has a PE license but whether you need one or not varies by field anyway.
Have you taken Multivariate Calculus, Diffrential Equations and/or Linear Algebra, Dynamics, Thermodynamics, Vector Mechanics-Statics, and was the physics course calculus based? If not, you may have to take some of these courses before starting the classes in an MS Program but if you really want to do this you’ll be willing to put in the time and you can do it.
Check out SUNY ESF. Great cost. Outstanding program. Yes, you can still become a PE - you need to have your masters in Engineering, 5 years working in the field and then you sit for the exam.
I guess my reply didnt post.
Thats great to hear! How was that path for ypur cousin? Did your cousin get a PE?
Empireapple
I took calc 1, gen chem, organic chem, a lot of bio classes (of course), phyics (2 semesters), and a oceanography course. So i know i will have to take some engineer classes, but the amount i have to take varies on the school i think.
That reply did post and I already responded to it.
Thats weird. I see it now. Cant explain that. Sorry about that.
These inputs have been very helpful and i hope more are to come!
My other thought if somehow the path of getting an environmental engineer degree doesnt pan out, i should pursue a MS in Envir Sci with focus on either water resource or energy managment. OR just keep in the work force. I have over 5 years of work experience from marine labs, envir consulting, and currently material chemistry.