Master of Science in Sustainability
Sustainability science examines the dynamic relationships between humans and the environment with a focus on the vulnerability and resilience of coupled human-environment systems. The Master of Science in Sustainability program is designed for recent graduates, current professionals, and practitioners who wish to contribute meaningfully to work in sustainability.
Master of Science in Sustainability
Students will receive training in methodologies relevant to the social and natural sciences, develop their proficiency in the use of geospatial analysis tools, and hone skills relevant to policy implementation and organizational leadership in one of five tracks of study. Learn about resources available to graduate students.
Master of Science in Sustainability
Students in the program choose to complete a practicum or a thesis. They select one of five study tracks to support their specialization in an aspect of sustainability science.
Master of Science in Sustainability
Interested in applying? Schedule a visit, meet with our faculty, or learn about the application process.
Welcome
Dear Prospective Graduate Students,
Thank you for your interest in the Master of Science in Sustainability program at Northern Michigan University. Our program is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of sustainability issues and develop and implement thoughtful and practical approaches to addressing them. We welcome students who are curious, willing to work across disciplines, and interested in using their knowledge and skills to make a meaningful contribution in the Upper Peninsula and beyond.
Through interdisciplinary coursework, our students build foundational knowledge and skills in the natural and social sciences, geospatial analysis, policy, research, and effective communication and organizational leadership skills. Our program emphasizes problem-solving and collaboration while providing students with an ability to customize their studies around their interests and professional goals.
Students select one of five tracks of study and complete either a practicum or thesis option. The practicum is developed in connection with an organization or agency to solve an environmental problem. The thesis option follows the more traditional research route that culminates in an independent research project and paper.
Students become part of a community of dedicated faculty, staff, and other students who are interested in addressing sustainability challenges and contributing to solutions. Depending on their interests, project needs, and available opportunities, students may also connect their work with initiatives on campus or in the surrounding community in Marquette or more broadly within the Upper Peninsula.
I encourage prospective students to explore the program tracks and faculty interests and to begin conversations with a potential advisor early in the application process. As Graduate Program Director, I am happy to help applicants understand the program, its expectations, and the steps involved in applying.
Best regards,
Dr. Adam T. Naito
Graduate Program Director
Associate Professor, Department of Earth, Environmental and Geographical Sciences
anaito@nmu.edu
About the Program
As a student, you will receive training in methodologies relevant to the social and natural sciences, develop your proficiency in the use of geospatial analysis tools, and hone skills relevant to policy implementation and organizational leadership. Students graduating from this program will be able to address global environmental challenges within their local communities and can lead sustainability initiatives in government agencies, private sector positions, and not-for-profit and non-governmental organizations.
Student profiles
Our students receive appropriate training to address social, economic, and environmental sustainability in multiple creative ways o they can become those leaders of tomorrow. They assist faculty and staff working on applied sustainability initiatives on campus and in the community.
Resources
The Department of Earth, Environmental and Geographical Sciences supports graduate student needs during their tenure by providing equipment, software, and funding for some professional development.
Graduate courses
A variety of both required and elective courses are available to graduate students. Coursework will provide interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary training and hands-on experiential learning opportunities.
Curriculum
Graduate students will be required to complete 32 credits of coursework. In addition to pursuing a practicum or thesis, students will also select one of five study tracks as part of their specialization in an aspect of sustainability science.
Natural Resources Management
Community Development & Planning
Sustainability Leadership
Spatial Data Science
Individualized
Admissions Requirements
We encourage you to explore this site, contact faculty with interests similar to yours, and review the requirements for admission. Resources for learning about the admissions process can be found at the link below.
