Develop expertise in areas of Environmental Engineering ranging from nano/molecular science to systems-level scales with a strong grasp of natural science fundamentals, and robust skills in data science, modeling, and policy.
At-A-Glance
Environmental Engineering faculty perform research in atmosphere and climate, water, energy and land, as well as their dynamic interactions. We study grand challenges involving complex systems – with impacts on society, ecosystems, environment and economy.
FAQs
Q. What research is EES working on?
A. Some of our “large” research initiatives focus on areas where our expertise could be merged specifically to address Grand Challenges such as Impacts of Climate Change/Adaptation, Environmental Public Health Engineering, and OneWater Engineering. Our research also focuses on Rural and Urban Sustainability, Food, Water, and Energy in the Context of a Circular Economy, and Carbon Negative Solutions/Green Engineering.
Q. Who funds EES research?
A. Our research groups are funded externally with grants from federal and state governmental agencies, research foundations, and industry, and internally through seed funding programs at the Grainger College of Engineering and Civil & Environmental Engineering Department.
Q. How do I apply for a visiting scholar or post-doc position?
A. The University of Illinois Graduate College provides comprehensive information on their website.
Q. Can I achieve a Masters degree in less than a year?
A. Absolutely, an MS non-thesis or online degree program can be completed in 11 months. The Academics tab provides more information.
Q. Can undergraduate students participate in research projects?
A. Civil & Environmental Engineering Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) are paid positions that give you the opportunity to actively participate in research and work with faculty, graduate students and other researchers on ongoing projects.
2026 U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT RANKINGS
Environmental Engineering Undergraduate Program
Environmental Engineering Graduate Program
Behind the Rankings
In 2026, the Environmental Engineering and Science (EES) program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign ranked 3rd in the nation for both undergraduate and graduate programs. Following the launch of our new B.S. in Environmental Engineering in Fall 2024, the program has risen 2 spots and continues to gain national recognition and momentum.
What’s driving our success? It’s the strength of our people, research, facilities, and support.
STUDENTS: At the Core of Innovation
Our students bring talent, creativity, and a passion for solving real-world problems. Coming from diverse backgrounds, they enrich our program through:
- Collaborative Learning: Peer-to-peer knowledge exchange that sharpens critical thinking and problem-solving.
- Research Excellence: Hands-on involvement in cutting-edge projects alongside faculty, with results shared through publications and conferences.
- Community Impact: Leadership in outreach, workshops, and public engagement that reflects our values in action.
Their energy and commitment continue to elevate the academic quality and reputation of our program.
FACULTY: Solving Grand Challenges
Our faculty combine complementary expertise to tackle the complex environmental issues of today and tomorrow. From climate impacts to ecosystem health and sustainability, their collaborative work bridges disciplines and generates real-world solutions that shape global conversations.
FACILITIES: Empowering Research & Discovery
Our state-of-the-art labs support a wide range of research areas, including:
- Air quality
- Environmental toxicity
- Water disinfection and quality
- Environmental microbiology and genomics
- Synthetic biology
- Hazardous waste remediation
- Resource recovery
Shared facilities feature cutting-edge instruments like mass spectrometry, gas and liquid chromatography, ICP, and surface analysis tools. Explore more under our Research tab.
FUNDING: Fueling Innovation
We are proud to receive support from leading agencies and organizations, including:
- National Science Foundation (NSF)
- NASA
- U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- National Institute of Food and Agriculture
- Gates Foundation
- National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA)
- Illinois Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment
These investments power groundbreaking research and enhance the educational experiences of our students.
FRIENDS: Partners in Excellence
We are deeply grateful to the alumni and supporters whose generosity strengthens our mission. Contributions help fund:
- Graduate fellowships
- Student travel and conferences
- Our annual Graduate Student Spring Symposium
- Endowed professorships and distinguished guest lectures
- Lab renovations and equipment
- Student competitions and professional development
Your support allows us to attract the best and brightest minds—and provide them with opportunities that shape the future of environmental engineering.