Master of Science (M.S.) in Sustainability

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The M.S. program in Sustainability addresses some of the most pressing concerns of the 21st century. Students learn innovative approaches to understand, research, and provide solutions to complex sustainability challenges. Although the graduate-degree programs emphasize the integration of a broad range of expertise in student training, the M.S. degree (vs. the M.A) is best suited to students inclined towards natural sciences or engineering.

Learning Outcomes

M.S. graduates will be able to think in a holistic way about different types of sustainability problems using a dynamic systems framework. They will have the technical skills to formulate and solve problems at the appropriate scale, and the breadth of vision to recognize the interconnectedness of coupled social and environmental systems. They will also be able to produce policy-relevant results. In addition to the common learning outcomes, M.S. students will be able to:

• Understand the concepts and methods of environmental economics, ecology, environmental biology, hydrology, environmental chemistry, engineering, earth systems management, and other disciplines relevant to the sustainable use of environmental resources.
• Lead others in applying these concepts and methods to developing sustainable strategies for water, land, air, and urban management at the local and global level.
• Evaluate the sustainability of technology, the built environment, and their environmental regulations, and policy.
• Research particular problems in the sustainability of the economic and natural environment.

Careers

Graduates will be able to move on to a doctoral degree or gain employment in areas such as:

• Education
• Local, State, and Federal Government
• Intergovernmental Organizations
• International Nongovermental Organizations
• Consultancy
• Industry
• Utilities
• Regulatory Agencies

To explore career options in sustainability, visit the Careers section.