Cornell University

Environmental Engineering is the study and practice of analyzing, designing, and managing natural and engineered systems in ways consistent with the maintenance or enhancement of environmental amenities and social sustainability goals. It requires the ability to predict interactions and impacts among natural and engineering-system components at various spatial and temporal scales in response to alternative projects, and design and management policies. It requires a thorough understanding of interactions among the natural environment, the constructed environment, and human activities. Environmental engineers pursue development of sustainable energy systems and mitigation of impacts of climate change.

Students matriculating in the College of Engineering (CoE) generally affiliate with this major in their second year. Students matriculating in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) generally enroll in this major in their first semester. This major requires that students take the following courses: