Best Master’s in Sustainability Programs 鈥 2024
July 25, 2024
Best Sustainability Master’s Programs (In-Person & Online) – Environmental protection and conservation are increasingly important areas of study. With green initiatives gaining traction at both large corporations and grassroots organizations, there is an increase of people looking to create positive, lasting change for our climate. For students looking to gain a more structured and disciplined approach to the environmental sciences, earning a master鈥檚 degree in sustainability might be a good place to start.
What is a master鈥檚 degree in sustainability?
These programs are often interdisciplinary and offer varied areas of concentrations to appeal to students with specific interests. Within these programs, students generally first learn a basic and broad knowledge of environmental sciences. Usually, these studies are then combined with social sciences, business practices, law, and/or conservation. These subcategories are defined as a concentration. Typically, students will become specialized in one of these concentrations over the course of their studies to become uniquely qualified in their area of expertise. In some cases, students can even earn a dual master鈥檚 degree.
Sustainability鈥檚 goal is to promote a healthy balance between the environment, equity, and the economy. Companies are increasingly looking for candidates with experience in this area to help ensure their corporations are utilizing the best practices for the protection of the planet.
After completing a master鈥檚 degree in sustainability, students have the option to pursue many different career paths. For example, graduates have found jobs as environmental lawyers, engineers, researchers, policy analysts, sustainable design professionals, and more.
Is There an Online Sustainability Master鈥檚 Degree?
Yes!
While some programs require students to be on campus, there are many programs that offer fully remote or even hybrid options. The benefits of remote instruction are that students can take classes at their own pace and on their own time. This is especially useful if you are already a working professional looking to balance both education and work. In fact, these programs can also be completed on a full- or part-time basis.
A master鈥檚 degree in sustainability typically takes two years to complete. However, students attending the program on a part-time basis may need an additional semester or two to complete all the degree requirements.
If earning an online sustainability master鈥檚 degree, or attending on-site institution sounds like an interesting pathway, then keep reading! Below we have assembled 25 of the best programs for earning this degree.
Best Master鈥檚 in Sustainability Programs
1)
- Cambridge, Massachusetts
In this program, students will be focused on both large- and small-scale problem-solving, developing practical solutions to problems caused by climate change. In this highly customizable curriculum, students will encounter real-world challenges and become better equipped to research solutions. At the conclusion of the program, students will complete a thesis, or capstone, with a faculty adviser to culminate their learning.
It is important to note that this program is an online sustainability master鈥檚 degree, completed primarily through asynchronous, online instruction. While earning their master鈥檚 degree, students will take 11 out of the 12 course requirements online. As part of the degree program, students will then take a 1 weekend or 3-week summer intensive on campus to fulfill the remaining credit requirements.
2)
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
To earn a master鈥檚 in this program, students will enroll in the Master of Environmental Studies degree with an emphasis on Environmental Sustainability. Here, students can also choose from a variety of concentration courses, if they want to study a more specific interest. This program requires on-campus, classroom instruction.
Some examples of specific concentrations include studying how to design sustainable cities, learning environmental law & policy, and organizational project management.
3)
- Ithaca, New York
Students will earn an MBA with a concentration on sustainability. For those with an interest in both business and environmentalism, this degree could prove a beneficial intersection of study. For example, those interested in strategy consulting, fashion sustainability, and project management have found support through this program.
During this two-year program, students will have the opportunity to participate in real-world client projects as part of their practicum. Students will work with a team of classmates to help an organization address a current sustainability issue. Plus, students will have the chance to participate in many interactive experiences during the program.
Best Master鈥檚 in Sustainability Programs (Continued)
4)
- Medford, Massachusetts
At Tufts, students will earn an MS in Sustainability. If students are interested and able to enroll in the program as a full-time student, the degree can be completed in 12-18 months. Ultimately, there is a focus on a flexible structure in this master鈥檚 program. Students can focus on their unique interests, combining sustainability with their experience in another field.
Students will complete 36 credits as part of this program, including an internship or capstone experience. Upon graduation, the goal is to prepare students for identifying and negotiating a series of real-world sustainability issues.
5)
- Durham, North Carolina
In this program, students will earn a Master of Environmental Management degree. Within this degree, students can select one of two concentrations to better tailor the curriculum to their interests. These concentrations include the Environmental Concentration (Coastal and Marine Systems, Energy and Environment, Ecotoxicology and Environmental Health, Terrestrial and Freshwater Environments). The second concentration is the Management Concentration (Business and Environment, Community Engagement and Environment Justice, Environmental Analytics and Modeling, and Environmental Economics and Policy).
Each concentration requires 12 credits in the specific concentration and 17-19 credit hours of free elective courses. All students will also complete a master鈥檚 project and seminar as part of their degree requirements. In total, the program is 48 credit hours.
6)
- Palo Alto, California
As part of this specific curriculum, students can earn a joint/dual degree. Here, students will earn an MS degree in Environment and Resources with the opportunity to earn another master鈥檚 degree simultaneously. For example, in conjunction with the MS degree, students can also earn an MBA with the Stanford Business School or JD degree with the Stanford Law School.
While the program is rigorous, it is also designed to be flexible. For graduation requirements, students will be required to complete a capstone project.
Best Master鈥檚 in Sustainability Programs (Continued)
7)
- New Haven, Connecticut
Students in this program will earn a Master of Environmental Management degree. As part of the curriculum, students will learn more about natural and social sciences in combination with science, management, and policy.
The goal of this program is to provide broad knowledge and diverse perspectives and approaches to environmental problem-solving. Overall, the program is 48 credit hours. 18 of these credit hours must be dedicated to the student鈥檚 chosen specialization.
8)
- Hanover, New Hampshire
At the completion of this program, students will earn a master鈥檚 in Ecology, Evolution, Environment and Sustainability (EEES program). The program offers three 鈥渃lusters鈥 for students to choose from. These concentrations are Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Ecosystems and Earth Systems, and Environment and Society.
The program ultimately includes graduate students, faculty, and postdoctoral students from a variety of departments. Students will have expertise available in the fields of Biological Sciences, Environmental Studies, Anthropology, and Geography.
9)
- Tempe, Arizona
ASU offers several different pathways for a focus in their sustainability program. Plus, students are able to enroll in both on-campus and online instruction.
Students working in the social sciences or humanities fields can opt for a Master of Arts in Sustainability. Those interested in economics or engineering can enroll in the Master of Science in Sustainability. Additionally, students can also enroll in the Master of Sustainability Solutions, Master of Sustainability Leadership, Executive Master of Sustainability Leadership and Master of Science in Sustainable Food Systems.
Best Master鈥檚 in Sustainability Programs (Continued)
10)
- New York, New York
In this program, students will earn an MS in Sustainability Management. At 36 credit hours, this program can be completed both full- or part-time. The course curriculum is divided between five content areas. In this case, students are able to study a variety of subject areas, including economics and quantitative analysis, public policy, and general and financial management, among others.
Additionally, students may also choose to take courses across Columbia鈥檚 other graduate schools. For example, courses are offered in the School of International and Public Affairs, the Mailman School of Public Health, the Columbia Business and Law schools, and more.
11)
- Baltimore, Maryland
After completing this program, students will have earned a Master of Science in Environmental Sciences and Policy degree. Primarily, students will combine conservation biology with environmental justice and equity.
The program requires 30 credit hours and is available both online and in person. For full-time students, the program can be completed within 12-24 months.
12)
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
For students with specific interests in sustainability, this program may be a good option. As part of the MS degree, students can choose to specialize in one of seven fields of study. Their options include Environmental Justice, Environmental Policy and Planning, Conservation Ecology, Geospatial Data Sciences, and more.
Students will have the option to participate in field-based, hands-on learning, no matter their specialty. With applied professional training, each student will have gained a common foundation in ecological sciences. At the conclusion of the program, students will complete a capstone in the method of their choosing: group projects, practicums, or theses.
Best Master鈥檚 in Sustainability Programs (Continued)
13)
- Washington, DC
With both online and in-person options, the MS in Sustainability Management degree is complete at 30 credits. In fact, this program can be completed in 12-21 for full-time students.
In this program, students will have the opportunity to participate in live projects with legitimate sustainability stakeholders in the US and abroad. As part of a varied curriculum, students will be able to study a multidisciplinary approach. Students will learn more about environmental and social science, public policy, and international relations. Additionally, students can choose from three career tracks: Business, environment, and policy.
14)
- Rochester, New York
A MS in Sustainable Systems degree from this institution promises a scientific approach to the course curriculum. Students will learn how to apply scientific principles to sustainability science principles. At first, students will begin with a broad foundation of environmental sciences. Then, students will have the opportunity to customize their pathway to match their career goals.
Because this curriculum offers a science-based focus, students will have access to state-of-the-art labs and research centers. But, don鈥檛 be deterred if your undergrad degree isn鈥檛 in the sciences. Students of any educational background are welcome to apply to this program.
15)
- Hempstead, New York
The Masters in Sustainability program is welcome for students to enroll on either a full- or part-time basis. The program blends environmental, economic, social, philosophical, and ethical themes into the curriculum, allowing for a unique and broad range of ecological knowledge.
Designed to give students real-world and hands-on experience, this program utilizes a balanced approach to sustainability. To finish the 30-credit hour degree, students must take either an internship or complete a thesis as part of the graduation requirements.
Best Master鈥檚 in Sustainability Programs (Continued)
16)
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
In this program, students will earn an MS in Environmental Science and Management. Students will have the option to choose from three concentrations throughout their time in the program. These concentrations include: the Traditional concentration, the Conservation Biology concentration, and the Research concentration.
Students are able to complete the program in 2 years, if taking the courses at a full-time pace. Overall, this program requires 36 credit hours.
17)
- Bowling Green, Kentucky
An interdisciplinary master鈥檚 degree in sustainability, students will earn an MA in Social Responsibility & Sustainable Communities. Ultimately, students will approach this program with an emphasis on social justice and sustainability, as the degree is designed for students interested in studying the humanities and social sciences.
However, students will also have the opportunity to take elective courses which focus on other concentrations, like gender & women鈥檚 studies, community studies, and environmental sustainability. Interstingly, this program culminates in a week-long residency where students explore local Kentucky communities and then share their learning with peers and faculty.
18)
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
What makes this program unique is its dual degree master鈥檚 program. At Chatham, students will earn a Master鈥檚 in sustainability and a Master of Business Administration. The aim of this program is to prepare students for leadership positions in sustainability in all sectors. As part of the curriculum, students will complete coursework in business and sustainability and advanced work in sustainability.
This program requires 57 credit hours to earn the dual degrees. For students in full-time study, the degree may be completed in two years.
Best Master鈥檚 in Sustainability Programs (Continued)
19)
- Rindge, New Hampshire
In this program, students will earn an MBA in Energy and Sustainability. What makes this program unique are its small class sizes which allow for in-depth and more personalized instruction. Because this degree is business-focused, students will focus on corporate social responsibility, social entrepreneurship, and energy project financing in addition to other sustainability concepts.
For even more flexibility, this degree program is available completely online. Plus, students can choose to take full- or part-time study.
20)
- New Castle, Delaware
Students will earn an MS in Environmental Science. In this degree, students will learn more about the biological and chemical properties of ecosystem management. For example, curriculum involves environmental chemistry, soil biology, restoration ecology, environmental toxicology, and conservation biology.
As part of the program, students will partake in a 6-credit hour research project of their choosing. For this program, students can choose to take either online-only instruction or on-campus learning for greater flexibility in scheduling.
21)
- San Anselmo, California
Located at the University Redlands Marin Campus, this master鈥檚 program is for a degree in Sustainable Solutions. What makes this program unique is its monthly residency program. With an emphasis on community building, this program allows students to take advantage of state-of-the-art facilities and the beautiful, local scenery.
Students will have the option for hybrid, both online and in-person, instruction for a greater work life balance.
Best Master鈥檚 in Sustainability Programs (Continued)
22)
- Annandale-On-Hudson, New York
After completing this program, students will earn a Master鈥檚 in Sustainability in one of several areas. Students can complete a Master鈥檚 in Environmental Education, an M.S. in Environmental Policy, an M.S. in Climate Science and Policy, or an MBA in Sustainability.
In each discipline, students will gain the necessary leadership skills and a balance between environmental science, sociology, anthropology, history and business instruction.
23)
- Brattleboro, Vermont
With the option for both online and in-person instruction, this program is for a Master of Arts in Sustainable Development Practice. So, this program can be completed as an online sustainability master鈥檚 degree, if you鈥檇 like.
At 36-credit hours, students will have the opportunity to participate in practical residencies in both Mexico and the US. Plus, students can enroll in this program at both a full- and part-time basis. The program takes 2 years to complete.
Ultimately, students will learn how to create and lead thriving communities with sustainability practices at the forefront of their ideologies. Coursework is designed to help students gain a better understanding of certain power structures and policy frameworks.
24)
- Washington, DC
In this program, students will earn a Master of Arts in Environmental & Sustainability Policy. As part of the curriculum, students will take courses in science, law, policy, economics, research, and more.
Students will be prepared to take on careers in the fields of environmental policy, government, nonprofit, and environmental advocacy groups, among other fields. As part of their capstone, students will collaborate in small groups on a pro bono product for a client of their choice.
Best Master鈥檚 in Sustainability Programs (Continued)
25)
- New Brunswick, New Jersey
Within this program, students will earn a Master of Business & Science with a Concentration in Sustainability.
Those with a Bachelor鈥檚 degree in scientific or engineering disciplines are highly encouraged to apply. For example, it is recommended that students have acquired basic knowledge in the calculus, chemistry, statistics, and science fields before applying.
Master鈥檚 Degree in Sustainability 鈥 In Review
When deciding on the right program, you should first consider your concentration, if you want to partake in an online sustainability master鈥檚 degree, and your ultimate career path. These factors will be important for preparing your statement of purpose. Are you interested in the business aspects of sustainability? Do you want to practice environmental law? Or, maybe you want to be involved in your local community organizations.
While a master鈥檚 degree in sustainability can advance you into many professional careers, some programs do require the degree to have a certain amount of specificity in its concentration. For example, if you know that earning a dual degree, as both an MBA and an MS, will help propel you into your chosen field, then you should look for programs with this option. Or, at least, programs with business-specific electives available.
Ultimately, sustainability has become a booming field with many career options for recent graduates. Working in environmentalism has become as necessary as it is rewarding.
Master鈥檚 Degree in Sustainability – Additional Resources
