American University of Beirut

The program educates students in ecosystem science and management by integrating instruction in biophysical and human systems. It provides students with sufficient research experience and equips them with the necessary tools for professional practice and/or the pursuit of higher education. Students are prepared to be leaders and agents of change to address issues of local and global relevance at the nexus of human development, ecological integrity, and the sustainable use of resources.

Ecosystem management involves not only an understanding of ecosystem structure and function when used for a variety of purposes, but also the incorporation of social, economic, and political considerations into decision-making. Consequently, the discipline involves the collection, analysis, interpretation, and integration of information not only from the more traditional areas of science but also from the areas of management.

The graduate study program leading to the MSES (master of science in environmental sciences) degree with a specialization in ecosystem management (ECOM) is offered with a thesis or non-thesis option.

Core and elective courses are structured to provide students with a diversified and multidisciplinary background in environmental sciences including environmental restoration and nature conservation, ecosystem sciences and management, urban greening and natural resources planning and management. The program crosses traditional boundaries by applying an interdisciplinary approach and multiple resource knowledge to ecosystem studies while also emphasizing human-nature interactions.

Effective fall 2020-21, new ECOM students will need to take a total of 5 core courses equivalent to 15 credits (three core courses from LDEM in addition to two core courses from ENVT, ENVH or ENVP). The three core graduate courses offered at LDEM include LDEM 301 (Urban Greening), LDEM 302 (Green Infrastructure for Resilient Landscapes and Cities), and LDEM 630 (Natural Resources Management). ECOM students will also need to take three elective courses equivalent to 9 credits (to be determined after consultation with their adviser). ECOM students will also register for a Comprehensive Exam (ENSC 695; 0 cr.) and an MS Thesis (ENSC 699; 6 cr.) In addition to the above, effective fall 2023-24, ECOM students will have to register for LDEM 320 (Graduate Seminar in Ecosystem Management; 0cr.) as a mandatory seminar every term until graduation.

For full details on the admission requirements for this interfaculty program, see the Admissions section of this catalogue and the Admission Policies for the interfaculty graduate environmental sciences program.

For information regarding graduation requirements, refer to the General University Academic Information section in this catalogue.