Working Toward a Sustainable Future
If your passion for the planet goes above and beyond your own carbon footprint, consider a degree in the environmental field. The Center for Environmental Research and Education (CERE) is dedicated to providing an education that aligns with the values of the integrative bottom line as well as the United Nation's Seventeen Sustainable Development Goals, which recognize that “ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality and spur economic growth –all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.” Our students gain a diverse and practical skillset in science, communication, critical thinking and leadership, enabling them to tackle any issue affecting our land, air and water systems. Technical abilities and effective communication are emphasized in preparation for successful careers and graduate studies.
Faculty and Staff
John Stolz, Ph.D.
Director and Professor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
David Kahler, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
Philip Reeder, Ph.D.
Professor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
Mary Kate Ranii, M.S.
Adjunct Instructor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
Tiffany Taulton
Adjunct Instructor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
Derek Illar
Adjunct Instructor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
Gregory Barton
Adjunct Instructor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
Shishir Paudel, Ph.D.
Adjunct Instructor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
Stan Kabala, Ph.D.
Adjunct Instructor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
Abby Rubright
Adjunct Instructor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
Thomas Joseph
Adjunct Instructor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
Brady Porter, Ph.D.
Professor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
Elizabeth Dakin, Ph.D.
Professor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
Kyle Selcer, Ph.D.
Professor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
Emily Mercurio, Ph.D.
Adjunct Instructor, Center for Environmental Research and Education
Hear from an Alum
"My time at Duquesne has been a really great experience. I joined various student organizations and became part of the Duquesne community. And then my research allowed me to become part of a larger community, where I could use my skills to help improve the environment."
Degrees & programs
Undergraduate Programs
Our undergraduate programs provide students with a comprehensive education in the field of environmental science. We offer minors for students who wish to delve deeper into the pressing issues facing our planet today.
Graduate Programs
The ESM offers a flexible and personalized education, centered on devising innovative solutions to pressing environmental issues. Students can opt for a concentration in one of three areas of study.
Dual Degree Programs
Our dual degree programs provide a unique opportunity for undergraduate students to seamlessly cross academic disciplines, with more efficiency than a traditional double or triple major.
Training the next generation of scientists
Research Opportunities
Discover research opportunities at the Center for Environmental Research and Education!
Professional Certificates
Elevate your expertise with a Professional Certificate in Environmental Science or a Professional Certificate in Environmental Management!
Add a Minor
Expand Your Knowledge and Career Opportunities with a Minor in Environmental Science or a Minor in Environmental Studies!
Duquesne - Pittsburgh Connection
CERE installed a campus-community garden that serves to fight food apartheid in neighboring Uptown, combat stormwater overflow in the City of Pittsburgh, and increase biodiversity on campus.
96%of all students complete over 200 hours of community service.
As part of the Undergraduate Research Program, environmental students participate in ten weeks of research, community engagement, and a research symposium.
90%knowledge retention rate through experiential learning.
Environmental students conduct research on topics ranging from fracking, water quality, freshwater species, renewable energy, sustainability, and more. The Center for Environmental Research & Education also publishes regular campus sustainability reports include Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventories and the STARS Report, facilitated by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.
CERE's alumni network includes professionals in every sector of the field who serve in a broad array of positions.
600active alumni members.
From the Director
While we tackle the current environmental issues of climate change, energy, and forever chemicals it may be hard to predict what the top environmental priorities will be in the future. One thing is for sure, we at CERE will continue our commitment to providing the best possible education and opportunities for our students.
Questions? Contact Us!
John Stolz, Ph.D.
