YALE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Power, Knowledge, and the Environment: Social Science
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
9 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
This introductory graduate course explores the social science perspectives on contemporary environmental and natural resource issues, with a specific focus on the roles of power and knowledge. It is designed as a foundational course for Master of Environmental Management (MEM) students and is also a required course for the joint Yale School of the Environment (YSE)/Anthropology doctoral program. The curriculum delves into various themes, including the social dimensions of disasters and pandemics, the politics of resource systems, and the dynamics of working within development projects. The course also examines how local communities are represented and the influence of development discourse and indigenous knowledge systems. The primary goal is to foster an analytical distance from current debates and discourse in conservation and development, preparing students for advanced study and critical engagement with environmental challenges.
Curriculum
The course is structured into sections covering an overview, disasters and environmental perturbation, power and politics, methods, and local communities. It aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the social science aspects of environmental issues.
- Fall 2025
- Power, Knowledge, and the Environment: Social ScienceENV 759a/ANTH 581a
Careers
This course provides a strong foundation for careers in environmental management, policy, research, and non-profit work, particularly in roles that require an understanding of social dynamics and power structures within environmental contexts. Graduates are prepared for roles that address complex global challenges.
- Environmental Policy Analyst
- Conservation Manager
- Development Project Officer
- Environmental Social Scientist
- Resource Management Specialist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic qualifications needed for this course?
- This is an introductory graduate-level course. It is a core requirement for Master of Environmental Management (MEM) students and the joint Yale School of the Environment (YSE)/Anthropology doctoral program.
- How can I apply for this program?
- You should follow the general admissions process for the relevant graduate program at Yale, such as the Master of Environmental Management (MEM) or the joint YSE/Anthropology doctoral program. Visit the official admissions websites for the Yale School of the Environment and the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences to review specific requirements and application guidelines.
- What are the application deadlines?
- Application deadlines vary by program. For consideration for certain scholarships, like the YYGS scholarships, the application and financial aid portion deadline is January 7, 2026.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing this course?
- This course provides a foundation for careers in environmental management, policy, research, and non-profit work. Graduates are prepared for roles such as Environmental Policy Analyst, Conservation Manager, or Environmental Social Scientist.
- Does Yale University offer financial aid or scholarships for international students?
- Yes, Yale University offers need-based financial aid to all admitted students, including international students, on the same terms as U.S. students. Several scholarships, such as the New Haven Public Schools (NHPS) Scholarship and the Young Leaders (YL) Scholarship, are available for eligible students.
- What is the tuition fee for this program?
- Please refer to individual program pages for specific tuition details. Yale aims to ensure qualified students can access education regardless of financial circumstances.
Entry requirements
Graduate StudyThis is an introductory graduate-level course.
Enrollment is capped. This course is a core requirement for MEM students and the joint YSE/Anthropology doctoral program, and a prerequisite for some advanced YSE courses.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to individual program pages for specific tuition details. Yale aims to ensure qualified students can access education regardless of financial circumstances.
Tuition (home)Please refer to individual program pages for specific tuition details. Yale aims to ensure qualified students can access education regardless of financial circumstances.
LivingInformation on living costs is not available for this specific course. Please refer to general Yale University resources for estimated living expenses.
Yale University offers need-based financial aid to all admitted students, including international students, on the same terms as U.S. students. Scholarships are available, and applicants seeking financial aid must complete the financial aid portion of their application by the specified deadline.
How to apply
1. Explore ProgramsIdentify whether you are applying to the Master of Environmental Management (MEM) program, the joint YSE/Anthropology doctoral program, or another relevant graduate program at Yale.
2. Visit Admissions WebsitesNavigate to the official admissions pages for the Yale School of the Environment (YSE) and the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, or the specific professional school relevant to your program of interest.
3. Review RequirementsCarefully check the specific academic and English language proficiency requirements for your chosen program. Pay attention to any prerequisites or recommended background knowledge.
4. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, which typically include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and standardized test scores (if required). International applicants may need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
5. Complete Online ApplicationFill out the online application form for the chosen program. Ensure all sections are completed accurately and thoroughly.
6. Submit Application and FeesSubmit your completed application by the program's deadline. Application fees may apply.
7. Financial Aid and ScholarshipsIf you wish to be considered for need-based financial aid or scholarships, ensure you complete the relevant financial aid portions of the application by the specified deadlines (e.g., January 7 for YYGS scholarships).
8. Await DecisionAdmissions decisions are typically released by mid-March for programs with Early Action deadlines.
Scholarships
New Haven Public Schools (NHPS) ScholarshipFull tuition
STARS ScholarshipFull tuition and travel costs
Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Alumni ScholarshipFull tuition
Young Leaders (YL) ScholarshipFull tuition and travel costs
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic qualifications needed for this course?
+
This is an introductory graduate-level course. It is a core requirement for Master of Environmental Management (MEM) students and the joint Yale School of the Environment (YSE)/Anthropology doctoral program.
How can I apply for this program?
+
You should follow the general admissions process for the relevant graduate program at Yale, such as the Master of Environmental Management (MEM) or the joint YSE/Anthropology doctoral program. Visit the official admissions websites for the Yale School of the Environment and the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences to review specific requirements and application guidelines.
What are the application deadlines?
+
Application deadlines vary by program. For consideration for certain scholarships, like the YYGS scholarships, the application and financial aid portion deadline is January 7, 2026.
What career paths can I pursue after completing this course?
+
This course provides a foundation for careers in environmental management, policy, research, and non-profit work. Graduates are prepared for roles such as Environmental Policy Analyst, Conservation Manager, or Environmental Social Scientist.
Does Yale University offer financial aid or scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, Yale University offers need-based financial aid to all admitted students, including international students, on the same terms as U.S. students. Several scholarships, such as the New Haven Public Schools (NHPS) Scholarship and the Young Leaders (YL) Scholarship, are available for eligible students.
What is the tuition fee for this program?
+
Please refer to individual program pages for specific tuition details. Yale aims to ensure qualified students can access education regardless of financial circumstances.