How's the environmental engineering program at Penn State?

Hi everyone! I'm super interested in environmental engineering and I'm considering Penn State as an option. Can anyone share their experiences with the environmental engineering program at PSU? Like the course quality, professors, and what kind of projects students get to work on. Thanks in advance!

Hello! It's fantastic that you're considering Penn State for environmental engineering. The Environmental Engineering program at Penn State is well-regarded, and many students have positive experiences with the program. Here are a few aspects of the program that you might find interesting:

1. Course Quality: Penn State's environmental engineering program offers a strong curriculum that sufficiently prepares students for careers in the field. The curriculum includes a mix of math, basic sciences, engineering principles, and environmental engineering-specific courses. You'll study topics like air pollution control, water and wastewater treatment, and solid and hazardous waste management. What stands out is the integration of real-world case studies into the coursework, which will help you better understand relevant environmental issues.

2. Professors: Several students praise the quality and dedication of the faculty that teach in the environmental engineering program. Many professors hold valuable industry experience, which means you'll be learning from professionals who have hands-on experience in practical problem-solving. Additionally, they're known for being approachable and genuinely interested in helping students succeed in their academic and professional lives.

3. Projects and Research: Students in the program will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on projects, often as part of a class or through a capstone project in their senior year. These projects can range from designing water treatment systems to modeling pollutant dispersion in natural systems. Additionally, students who are interested in research can find opportunities by collaborating with faculty as research assistants. The College of Engineering at PSU is also involved in several research centers related to environmental engineering, such as the Penn State Institutes of Energy and the Environment, providing more avenues for you to broaden your knowledge.

4. Extracurricular Opportunities: Penn State offers various environmental and engineering clubs, like the Environmental Engineering Society and Engineers for a Sustainable World, where you can further your involvement in related activities and projects outside of your coursework. These clubs provide a great way to network with peers, participate in competitions, and develop soft skills like teamwork and leadership.

Overall, Penn State's Environmental Engineering program generally receives positive feedback from students in terms of course quality, professors, and opportunities for hands-on experience. By choosing PSU, you'll likely receive a well-rounded education from dedicated faculty that'll prepare you for a successful career in the environmental engineering field. Good luck!