Master of Science in Environmental Policy

The environmental challenges the world faces today require innovative thinkers and political will. The experts that will shape a more sustainable future need to understand the impact of politics, economics and other human dimensions on the environment. They also need to develop the skills to come up with out-of-the-box solutions grounded in science and social analysis. Clarkson University's Master of Science in Environmental Policy prepares the next generation of environmental professionals to rise to the occasion.
Offered through the Institute for a Sustainable Environment, the master's in environmental policy is an interdisciplinary degree with applied project or research-intensive thesis options. The curriculum is designed to be flexible and personalized toward your specific interests. As a student, you will determine a theme of focus with your research advisor and plan your studies accordingly. To graduate, you will either present a project or thesis founded on your own research.
Our program is rigorous and widely recognized in the field. In 2023, our Environmental Policy graduates boasted a 100-percent placement rate, and the average starting salary for Clarkson graduate students was 90K. In addition to being ranked as a top-tier national university by U.S. News & World Report and a top research university by Forbes, we take pride in putting our sustainability education into action. We have been named one of the Top-75 Most Eco-Literate Colleges by the Sierra Club and have also received a gold rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.

A complete application consists of the following:

Online Application Form

Resume

Statement of purpose

Three letters of recommendation

Official transcripts

GRE is strongly encouraged but not required.

For international applicants, submitting the results of an English proficiency test is required:

Minimum test score requirements: TOEFL (80) and TOEFL Essentials (8.5), IELTS (6.5), PTE (56) or Duolingo English Test (115).

MS Prerequisites: Students are expected to have taken a course on American politics or American society (sociology), as well as an introductory course in environmental science, and obtained a BS, BE or equivalent degree from an accredited institution.