Hi all, I am a potential student really interested in environmental engineering. I'm considering UC Berkeley for this major, but I'd love to hear from current students or recent graduates. What's the program like? Are there any research opportunities? I appreciate any info you can share!
Hi there! It's great that you're interested in environmental engineering at UC Berkeley. UC Berkeley is known for its strong engineering programs, and its environmental engineering major is no exception. The program is housed within the Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) department, and many students find it to be academically rigorous yet rewarding.
One of the major strengths of the program at Berkeley is its interdisciplinary approach. You'll get to take a wide range of courses from various departments, such as mechanical engineering and chemical engineering. This will give you a well-rounded foundation in environmental engineering and prepare you for diverse career options.
Research opportunities are abundant at UC Berkeley in the CEE department and beyond. As an undergraduate, you can seek out research experiences with faculty working on environmental engineering projects in areas such as water resources, air pollution control, and environmental sustainability. You can earn academic credit by participating in research projects alongside graduate students and faculty, and potentially have the opportunity to co-author publications based on your work.
Additionally, UC Berkeley has numerous research centers and institutes that focus on environmental issues, such as the Berkeley Water Center, Renewable and Appropriate Energy Laboratory (RAEL), and the Energy and Resources Group (ERG). These centers and institutes often have research assistant positions and internships available to undergraduate students, providing even more opportunities to get involved.
Lastly, the location of UC Berkeley offers unique advantages when it comes to opportunities within the environmental engineering field. The campus is situated near the San Francisco Bay Area, which is home to many environmental organizations and agencies. This makes it easier to find internships or co-op positions during your time at the university, and also extends your network of professional contacts, which can be beneficial for your future career.
Overall, UC Berkeley's reputable program, research opportunities, and the surrounding environment make it an excellent choice for studying environmental engineering. Good luck with your decision!
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