Environmental engineers design systems and solve pressing global problems in all areas related to the environment and public health: sustainable design of drinking water treatment and distribution, wastewater treatment, and solid and hazardous waste disposal systems; development of air quality monitoring and pollution prevention programs; design of site remediation and mining reclamation programs; and development of ecosystem protection and restoration efforts, among others.
At the School of Mines, undergraduate students interested in a career in environmental engineering earn an ABET-accredited BS degree in civil engineering with an emphasis in environmental engineering. Civil and environmental engineers often work on interdisciplinary teams to solve complex system design problems, so a broad background in engineering fundamentals and the natural sciences is essential. Students pursuing an environmental emphasis take courses in environmental, geotechnical, water resources, materials, and sustainable engineering, as well as related chemical engineering courses, to prepare them for a career right after graduation or additional graduate studies in environmental engineering, civil engineering, construction management or other professional degrees such as medicine or law.
Companies hiring recent graduates: GeoMega Engineering, US Air Force, LyondellBasell, US Geological Survey, Kennecott Copper, Barrick Gold, Black Hills Corporation, HDR Engineering, HR Green Engineering, SD Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Department: Civil and Environmental Engineering (link to http://cee.sdsmt.edu)
