What is our name?

We are the School of Sustainability Engineering and Environmental Engineering (SEE). Sustainability Engineering and Environmental Engineering are similar but differ in one distinct way: Environmental Engineers generally work on challenges after they have impacted an environment, while Sustainability Engineers are looking ahead and solving problems before they occur. Including both areas was deeply motivated by industry, students, and research, and positions Purdue SEE as a leader in preparing the next generation of sustainability engineers and environmental engineers to make an impact.

Why the double engineering?

Sustainability and good environmental practice can extend (and we think should extend) into all areas of modern life. However, we focus on sustainability in a highly technical, systems integrated (AKA engineering) context.

How did this happen?

The School of Sustainability Engineering and Environmental Engineering has been in progress for years. With the help of the College of Engineering Dean and the Provost, the launch was officially approved by the Board of Trustees on June 6, 2025.

I’m a EEE student, what is my degree in now?

You are still pursuing a degree in Environmental and Ecological Engineering! The EEE degree program remains firmly established; it isn’t going away, it just got a new home in SEE. Newly admitted students will also be in the field of EEE. The School of SEE currently offers BSEEE, MSEEE and PhD degrees, but one day we will offer multiple plans of study. The school sets us up to grow and achieve bigger and better things.

Ecological is not in the school name; what happened to it?

Nothing, it is still in the degree name and an integrated part of the curriculum.

I just graduated from EEE, what should I put on my resume?

Your degree is in Environmental and Ecological Engineering from the School of Sustainability Engineering and Environmental Engineering. You should be clear that you have a EEE degree. Here's an example:

Education
Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Ecological Engineering

Can I still use/wear my EEE swag?

Of course! You can also get some SEE swag soon!

Why was SEE created?

EEE was a “division” of engineering. This essentially means faculty couldn’t have EEE as their tenure home and we were limited in size and resources. The launch of SEE was a vote of confidence from the University and College of Engineering Dean. The school is a long-term commitment from all of Purdue University to support us in continuing to do great things and produce consequential engineers.

Where is the SEE office?

On the third floor of Potter Engineering Center, Room 364.

How does this affect faculty?

Faculty previously appointed to EEE will be appointed to SEE, effective July 1. Most faculty will keep their current appointments in SEE and other schools, keeping our program uniquely multidisciplinary.

Will this impact ABET Accreditation of the BSEEE?

The School of Sustainability Engineering and Environmental Engineering (SEE) builds upon the strong foundation laid by Environmental and Ecological Engineering (EEE). Simply put, the BSEEE will be housed within SEE and there will be no changes to the EEE curriculum at this time. While SEE has become the institutional home of the BSEEE, the rigor of the curriculum remains the same and addresses the standards set by ABET. We do not anticipate that this will impact accreditation.

Are we combining with any other degree programs?

Not as of now. SEE offers degrees in Environmental and Ecological Engineering. You can expect to see new degree offerings in the future.

How does this impact research and funding?

Most funding is awarded to individual faculty members and won't be affected by SEE. Research will continue as normal, with more opportunities to explore in Sustainability Engineering.