The Energy Science, Technology, & Policy (ESTP) program at Carnegie Mellon University offers intensive, interdisciplinary master's degrees for students interested in the energy sector. These programs combine a core understanding of energy topics with in-depth engineering knowledge and customizable electives. Students will engage in foundational study that prepares them for diverse roles in the rapidly evolving energy landscape. The program aims to equip graduates with the skills to address complex energy challenges through a blend of technical and policy-oriented coursework. There are two distinct degree options: the standard ESTP degree, completed in two semesters, and the ESTP Advanced Study degree, which extends to three semesters for a more customizable and in-depth experience. Both pathways emphasize hands-on applied study and offer opportunities to specialize in areas like AI Engineering within the energy context. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career goals.
The ESTP program offers two distinct master's pathways: the standard ESTP Master's and the ESTP Advanced Study Master's. Both degrees provide an intensive, interdisciplinary experience combining a programmatic core, engineering depth, and customizable breadth in energy topics. The Advanced Study option includes an additional semester for further specialization.
A TOEFL score is required if your native language is not English. We do not issue waivers for non-native English speakers, regardless of prior education in English-speaking institutions or countries. GREs are not required for admission to this program.
Tuition and fees are subject to change annually. The figures provided are for the 2026-2027 academic year as of April 3, 2026. Students who borrow federal loans may also incur an estimated $1,500 in loan fees.
Carnegie Mellon University is a highly respected institution. Specific accreditation for the ESTP program is implied through the university's overall accreditation.
The annual tuition for the Master's program is $60,900 USD. Estimated annual living expenses are approximately $34,018 USD, excluding tuition and health insurance.
The Energy Science, Technology, & Policy program offers two pathways: the standard ESTP degree, completed in two semesters (96 units), and the ESTP Advanced Study degree, extending to three semesters (120 units) for a more in-depth experience.
International students whose native language is not English must submit a TOEFL iBT score of at least 100. Waivers are not granted, regardless of prior education.
Applicants should have an undergraduate degree, preferably in Computer Science, Biology, Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field. Completed college-level coursework in life sciences, statistics, and some programming is also required.
The application portal for Fall admissions typically opens on September 9th. Applications are for the Fall semester intake only.
The program offers several funding opportunities, including the merit-based Rales Fellowship Program, Graduate Student Conference Funding, Professional Engagement Funding, and Scholarly Project Funding, with amounts and application details varying.