Environmental engineering (ENV) is not a desk job. Majors in the field learn and apply fundamental principles of environmental engineering to analyze and solve various engineering problems in areas such as air pollution control, water and wastewater treatment, and solid and hazardous waste management, with consideration to technical, ecological, socio-political, economic, and ethical factors.
Environmental engineers design pollution prevention (P2) and energy efficient (E2) systems to improve environmental quality by managing resources in a sustainable way. The department offers opportunities for undergraduate students to gain hands-on and other learning experiences through course work and research. Examples include sampling and analysis of indoor and ambient air, water and wastewater, soil, and rocks and minerals.
Wilkes is one of only a few universities in the country that houses both environmental engineers and scientists in the same department. This unique atmosphere produces high-quality engineers and scientists who have an enhanced ability to work collaboratively with one another. At Wilkes, students will gain an understanding of how natural and anthropogenic are influencing planet Earth. Wilkes' goal is to develop the student's skills as a strong critical thinker and prepare them for a career in industry, consulting, non-profit, government, or academia.
