Master of Science in Environmental Science and Policy

Gain a substantive breadth in knowledge and skills at the intersection of environmental science and policy.

Program Overview

Northeastern’s Master of Science in Environmental Science and Policy, a joint program between the College of Science’s Department of Marine and Environmental Science and the College of Social Sciences and Humanities’ School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs, provides interdisciplinary training and environmental problem-solving expertise to the next generation of environmental professionals.

Format and Location

On ground
Boston, MA

Commitment

1.5 Years (with optional co-op)
Part time, Full time

Entry Terms

Fall, Spring

A person conducts research in a field.

Shape the future of the environment

94%

94% of our graduates secure employment opportunities soon after completing their degree. (2021 graduate survey data)

20%

A master’s degree holder can expect to earn an average of 20 percent more than someone who has only earned their bachelor’s degree. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021).

8%

Employment of environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow 8% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021).

Course Requirements

The Master of Science Environmental Science and Policy requires 36 credits for completion. Students take nine classes across three semesters. In addition, there are two required seminar classes, two skills classes, and two department-based electives.

Students are then able to take three interdisciplinary courses from any college at Northeastern. This opportunity gives learners the chance to expand their horizons and apply environmental science and policy to various disciplines and future career paths.

Environmental Policy

Focus:

  • Policy Science and Analysis related to environmental management
  • Regulations

Potential career paths:

  • Federal, state, local government
  • NGOs
  • Corporate institutions

Environmental Science and Sustainability

Focus:

  • Environmental management
  • Climate change
  • Food systems
  • Equity in sustainability
  • Corporate government sustainability

Potential career paths:

  • Federal, state, local government
  • Small non-profits
  • Large and international NGOs
  • Environmental consulting
  • Corporate sustainability roles

Ecology and Marine Science

Focus:

  • Environmental management
  • Research
  • Climate change
  • Marine systems
  • Water resource management

Potential career paths:

  • Federal, state, and local government
  • NGOs
  • Environmental consulting
  • Research institutions

Program Director

  • ben dittbrenner

    Associate Teaching Professor
    Director, MS in Environmental Science and Policy

  • Environmental Science

    Admissions Information

    Application Requirements

    • Online application
    • Application fee
    • All transcripts
    • Personal statement
    • Resumé
    • 2 letters of recommendation
    • English language proficiency
    • GRE not required

    Financing and Scholarships

    Future tuition costs, fees, and standard student budget amounts may differ from year to year.

    There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more.

    International Students

    Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

    Application Deadlines

    Fall Admission

    • International: July 1
    • Domestic: August 1

    Spring Admission

    • International: November 1
    • Domestic: December 1

    Ready to apply?

    A graduate degree can take your career to the next level.

    My time at Palmer Capital during my renewable energy co-op was a truly remarkable opportunity. This immersive experience deepened my understanding of the field and helped me identify a sector that I hope to explore further in my future endeavors.

    Alicia Bustamente, MS Environmental Science and Policy ’23
    Alicia Bustamente standing in front of a green tree

    Earn your master’s degree at Northeastern

    Have Questions? Contact Us.

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