Which Schools Offer Master Degree in Environmental Sustainability?
In an environmental sustainability master's program, students combine one or more fields with the theory of sustainability. Students learn replace practices that hurt the environment with alternatives. For example, students focusing on environmental sustainability in business might look at the way a coffee shop chain wastes paper cups and help that chain integrate compostable products instead while increasing its profits.
Other People Are Reading
-
Types
-
The School of Sustainability at Arizona State University awarded the first master of arts degree in sustainability in the fall 2008. Dozens of other schools offer programs focused on sustainability, but none bestow a master of arts in sustainability. Environmental sustainability is becoming a focus in many areas of study, and programs range from agriculture to economics, from education to even fashion, and from cooking to tourism.
Significance
-
During the course of earning a masters or Ph.D. in environmental sustainability, students generally make connections and perform research that will prepare them for professional work in the field, including teaching others about environmental sustainability. Earning a bachelor's degree prepares students for further study.
-
Schools and Programs
-
For students wanting to study environmental sustainability, Arizona State University's Global Institute of Sustainability offers a prestigious degree and abundant research opportunities. Students interested in a specific field, such as law or education, can find programs concerning the sustainability of that particular field.
For example, students interested in business can attend the University of Pennsylvania to earn the "Green MBA," which will prepare them to make eco-friendly and lucrative business choices. For fashion-minded people, the Centre for Sustainable Fashion in London offers a master's of art in fashion, educating students on how to design clothing and use material that will not damage the earth during production.
To learn about schools that offer sustainability programs in these and other fields of interest, visit The Association of University Leaders for a Sustainable Future site (see Resources).
Preparation
-
If you would like to earn a master's degree in environmental sustainability, you must first earn a bachelor's degree. While most master's programs do not require you to have studied the subject as an undergraduate, it will help to have taken at least some courses in either environmental science or the field of your interest. For example, if you were a business major as an undergraduate, your application for an environmentally focused MBA degree will be much stronger. Research institutions that offer green MBA programs send in applications to multiple schools.
Careers
-
Your particular degree (be it master's of art in fashion or a sustainability-focused master's of teaching) will influence your career possibilities. Students who receive MBAs in sustainable business practice will be prepared to start their own business or find work consulting existing businesses on how to improve their practices. Renewable energy jobs, like solar power and wind power, are in high demand also. "Green" jobs are growing in every field, so your master's degree is sure to be a smart financial investment.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Simon Howden/freedigitalphotos.net
