Program Description
The MSUS program prepares students to apply sustainability principles and approaches to careers in a variety of fields, addressing complex human and environmental challenges. The focus is on developing solutions by working with stakeholders on these challenges using a sustainability framework.
A distinguishing element of the program is its applied approach and emphasis on learning how to develop solutions. Students begin the program with a foundation in sustainability theory and methods, then take electives in an area of interest.
Final courses include learning how to manage sustainability projects as well as the capstone experience, where students team up with a company, a government agency or a nongovernmental organization to develop a real-world sustainability solution. Carried out collaboratively in lieu of a thesis, the capstone provides practical experience positioning graduates for today's competitive, knowledge- and skill-intensive job market.