UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN–MADISON · UNITED STATES
Human Ecology: Human Ecology, MS
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
18 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 32 credits minimumCredit Requirement
- 18 months (3 semesters full-time)Typical Duration
- 3 letters of recommendationApplication Requirement
- Capstone Project requiredProgram Feature
- Named specialization optionsCustomization
The Master of Science in Human Ecology program offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding and addressing contemporary issues related to human and community development. It focuses on current theories and strategies for creating, managing, and evaluating settings that promote well-being. Students will engage with research and practice that integrates the promotion of human and family development with perspectives on building effective organizations and sustainable communities. This program is designed as an applied, terminal degree, ideal for those new to the field or with existing experience, who wish to develop specialized expertise through elective courses and a real-world capstone project. The curriculum allows students to tailor their learning to specific interests, enabling them to name their expertise for future employers. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in community-based organizations, intermediary organizations, government agencies, and university outreach programs.
Curriculum
The program requires a minimum of 32 credits, with at least 16 credits of graduate coursework and 16 credits of residence. Students will complete coursework in understanding and translating research, content and theory within Human Ecology disciplines, developing an area of specialization, professional skills, and a capstone project.
- Year 1
- Understanding and Translating Research (Advisor Approved)
- Content and Theory (8 credits across CNSR SCI, CSCS, DS, HDFS, or INTER-HE)
- Special Topics in Human Ecology (Professional Development)INTER-HE 801
- Area of Specialization Courses (3 courses)
- Professional Skills (Advisor Approved)
- Capstone Seminar (1 credit)INTER-HE 980
- Year 2
- Capstone Seminar (2 credits)INTER-HE 980
Careers
This program prepares students for a wide range of careers focused on human and community development. Graduates are equipped to work in diverse settings that require strong analytical, programmatic, and community-engagement skills.
- Community Organizer
- Family Support Specialist
- Program Manager
- Policy Analyst
- Research Associate
- Community Educator
- Youth Development Worker
- Social Justice Advocate
- Financial Coach
- Capacity Building Specialist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the MS in Human Ecology program?
- You must have completed a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Applicants also need to meet the Graduate School's minimum requirements, which include demonstrating English proficiency. Applications are reviewed holistically.
- How long does the MS in Human Ecology program typically take to complete?
- The program is designed to be completed in 18 months, which is equivalent to three full-time semesters.
- What is the minimum credit requirement for this Master's program?
- The program requires a minimum of 32 credits. Of these, at least 16 credits must be graduate coursework and 16 credits must be in residence.
- What are the tuition and fees for international students?
- International student tuition and fee information, as well as estimated living costs, can be found through the Bursar's Office. For specific details, please refer to their resources.
- What are the application deadlines for the MS in Human Ecology?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is December 1. Applications are reviewed once annually after the deadline.
- What career paths can graduates of the Human Ecology MS program pursue?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Community Organizer, Program Manager, Policy Analyst, Research Associate, and Social Justice Advocate. The program equips students for careers in human and community development.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeCompletion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required. Consult the Graduate School's minimum requirements for admission.
English Proficiency TestRefer to the Graduate School's Minimum Requirements for Admission policy (UW-1241).
Applicants must meet both the Graduate School's minimum requirements and the specific program requirements. Applications are reviewed holistically by a faculty admissions committee. Interviews may be conducted for selected candidates.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the Bursar's Office for current tuition and fees.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the Bursar's Office for current tuition and fees.
LivingPlease refer to the Bursar's Office for estimated living costs.
Tuition and fee information is available through the Bursar's Office. Funding opportunities such as assistantships and scholarships are available through the Graduate School and the School of Human Ecology.
How to apply
1. Review RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with both the UW–Madison Graduate School minimum requirements and the specific admissions criteria for the Human Ecology MS program.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any required test scores. Note that GRE is not required for this program.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form through the UW–Madison Graduate School admissions portal by the specified deadline.
4. Admissions Committee ReviewThe faculty admissions committee will review all complete applications. Selected candidates may be invited for an interview.
5. Attend Admitted Student DayIf admitted, you will be invited to the Human Ecology Graduate Programs Admitted Student Visit Day held in the spring.
Scholarships
Academic Excellence ScholarshipsVariable
Teaching or Project AssistantshipsVariable (includes tuition remission and stipend)
Graduate Research ScholarshipsVariable
Conference Travel ScholarshipsVariable
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the MS in Human Ecology program?
+
You must have completed a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Applicants also need to meet the Graduate School's minimum requirements, which include demonstrating English proficiency. Applications are reviewed holistically.
How long does the MS in Human Ecology program typically take to complete?
+
The program is designed to be completed in 18 months, which is equivalent to three full-time semesters.
What is the minimum credit requirement for this Master's program?
+
The program requires a minimum of 32 credits. Of these, at least 16 credits must be graduate coursework and 16 credits must be in residence.
What are the tuition and fees for international students?
+
International student tuition and fee information, as well as estimated living costs, can be found through the Bursar's Office. For specific details, please refer to their resources.
What are the application deadlines for the MS in Human Ecology?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is December 1. Applications are reviewed once annually after the deadline.
What career paths can graduates of the Human Ecology MS program pursue?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Community Organizer, Program Manager, Policy Analyst, Research Associate, and Social Justice Advocate. The program equips students for careers in human and community development.