Environmental Science, Ph.D.

Ph.D. students at Florida Tech benefit from small class sizes and close faculty mentorship that supports independent, research-focused study.

Interdisciplinary collaboration draws on expertise from science, mathematics and engineering, providing a strong foundation for addressing complex environmental problems.

Faculty advisors guide students through all stages of doctoral training, from research design and implementation to publication and professional preparation.

The Ph.D. in environmental science is a research-driven degree. Students pursue advanced study in the assessment, management and preservation of natural resources, with an emphasis on understanding environmental processes, ecosystem dynamics and applied solutions.

The program culminates in a substantial, original dissertation. Doctoral students are expected to publish significant findings in refereed journals and present their research to peers and experts.

Research topics may include water quality, nutrient and sediment dynamics, eutrophication, restoration strategies and other challenges in aquatic and terrestrial systems.

Florida Tech offers a range of research facilities supporting both laboratory- and field-based environmental science.

On campus, students work in laboratories such as the Marine and Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, the F.W. Olin Physical Sciences Center and the L3Harris Center for Science and Engineering, with instrumentation for water quality analysis, sediment studies, core-boring and other advanced research techniques.

Field access includes the Ralph S. Evinrude Marine Operations Center and the Mertens Marine Center, which provide boats and waterfront laboratories for research in the Indian River Lagoon, a highly biodiverse estuarine system, and surrounding ecosystems. These resources support interdisciplinary research and the development of advanced experimental expertise in real-world settings.

Academic units at Florida Tech may offer graduate student assistantships to full-time, degree-seeking graduate students on a competitive basis.

Teaching Assistants (TAs) support faculty in teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, including tasks such as grading, tutoring and conducting office hours. First-time TAs attend a teaching assistant seminar to prepare for their responsibilities.

Research Assistants (RAs) collaborate with faculty on projects funded by government agencies, private sponsors and university research funds.

For current information regarding available assistantships, please contact the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences.

Florida Tech offers a safe and welcoming campus environment that supports advanced research alongside personal well-being. The campus includes extensive green spaces, such as the Joy and Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden, along with facilities like the Holzer Health Center and Clemente Center for health, fitness and stress management.

Located minutes from the Indian River Lagoon and 72 miles of Atlantic beaches, the university combines access to outdoor recreation with proximity to industry and government organizations that contribute to research collaboration and career development.

Graduate students from around the world come together at Florida Tech in a campus community that fosters international collaboration and innovation. This environment encourages students to work across cultures and perspectives, preparing them for research and professional settings around the globe.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) supports international students throughout their academic journey, providing guidance on immigration matters, serving as a liaison with sponsoring agencies and foreign governments, and sharing information about campus and community resources.

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in environmental science, biology, chemistry or a related science discipline. In some cases, prerequisite coursework may be required before beginning the doctoral program. Prospective students are encouraged to contact faculty to discuss research interests and identify a potential advisor.

Please see our graduate admission requirements for more information.