ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Sustainability, MA
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Research-oriented degreeProgram Focus
- 32 credit hoursProgram Length
- Thesis or Scientific PaperCulminating Experience
- YesSTEM-OPT Eligible
- Rob Walton College of Global FuturesCollege
- Tempe CampusLocation
The Master of Arts in Sustainability at Arizona State University is a research-focused graduate program designed to equip students with the skills to address complex global sustainability challenges. This program emphasizes transdisciplinary research, integrating insights from various fields such as science, humanities, and planning. Students will learn to analyze sustainability problems from a systems perspective and develop innovative solutions. This MA program culminates in either a thesis or a publishable scientific paper, preparing graduates for careers in research, academia, or leadership roles in business and government. The curriculum fosters critical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication across disciplines, enabling students to understand and contribute to sustainable development at local, regional, national, and global scales. The program is also eligible for the STEM-OPT extension for international students on F-1 visas.
Curriculum
The program requires 32 credit hours, which can be completed with either a thesis or by including the required capstone course (SOS 596). Students must maintain a GPA of 3.25 or higher in the taught-course element.
- Overall
- Perspectives on SustainabilitySOS 510
- Research Design and Methods for SustainabilitySOS 520
- Social-Ecological-Technical Systems: Domains and InterfacesSOS 525
- Community of Graduate Student ScholarsSOS 589
- Electives (methods)
- Electives (normative dimensions of sustainability)
- General Electives
- Capstone: Scientific PaperSOS 596
- ThesisSOS 599
Careers
Graduates with expertise in sustainability frameworks and interdisciplinary research are highly sought after across various sectors, including business, academia, and government. The program develops critical thinking, teamwork, sustainability problem-solving, and research skills.
- Chief Sustainability Officer
- Conservation Program Lead
- Disaster Relief Manager
- Environmental Restoration Planner
- Program Director or Manager
- Research Associate
- Sustainability Communications Specialist
- Sustainability Instructor or Teacher
- Sustainability Specialist
- Zero Waste Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the MA in Sustainability program?
- You need a bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution in any field. A minimum GPA of 3.25 (on a 4.00 scale) is required in the last 60 hours of your first bachelor's degree or in an applicable master's degree program.
- How do I prove my English proficiency?
- If English is not your native language, you must submit proof of English proficiency. Specific details on accepted tests and scores are available through the university's graduate admissions information.
- What is the application deadline for the Fall intake?
- The final deadline for the Fall intake is December 15.
- What are the estimated tuition fees for international students?
- International students will pay tuition and fees, with specific amounts varying by program and based on factors like residency status. You can find detailed information using the university's tuition estimator.
- What are the career prospects after completing this MA program?
- Graduates are sought after in business, academia, and government, with potential roles as Chief Sustainability Officers, Program Directors, Research Associates, or Sustainability Specialists. The program also makes graduates eligible for STEM-OPT extension.
- How long does the MA in Sustainability program take to complete?
- The program requires 32 credit hours. It can be completed with either a thesis or by including a required capstone course.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's or Master's DegreeFrom a regionally accredited institution in any field.
Minimum GPA3.25 (on a 4.00 scale) in the last 60 hours of the first bachelor's degree or in an applicable master's degree program.
Applicants must fulfill requirements of both the Graduate College and the Rob Walton College of Global Futures. The statement of intent should be under 600 words, outlining background, career goals, research interests, and potential faculty advisors. Letters of recommendation should be from three individuals attesting to academic and professional achievements, with at least one academic reference.
Fees
Tuition (international)International students will pay tuition and fees. Specific amounts vary by program and depend on factors like residency status. Details can be found using the university's tuition estimator.
Tuition (home)Arizona residents generally pay a lower tuition rate. Specific amounts vary by program. Non-resident students may be eligible for reduced tuition through programs like the Western Undergraduate Exchange.
LivingEstimated costs for housing, food, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, and personal expenses will vary.
Common fees include a Recreation fee ($28), Student Service Facility fee ($100), Student Programs fee ($35), Health and Wellness fee ($80), and Student Athletic fee ($100). College and school-specific fees and a surcharge fee also apply.
How to apply
1. Complete Graduate Admission ApplicationFill out the online application for graduate admission and pay the associated application fee.
2. Submit Official TranscriptsProvide official transcripts from all previously attended institutions where a bachelor's or master's degree was earned. Ensure they demonstrate the required GPA.
3. Write a Statement of IntentPrepare a statement of intent, not exceeding 600 words. Describe your background, how it will contribute to success in the program, how the degree supports your long-term career goals, key research questions you wish to address, and identify potential faculty advisors.
4. Obtain Letters of RecommendationSecure three letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to your academic and professional achievements. At least one letter should be academic in nature.
5. Submit Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)Provide an up-to-date resume or CV detailing your academic and professional experience.
6. Provide Proof of English ProficiencyIf your native language is not English, you must submit proof of English proficiency, regardless of your current residency.
Scholarships
New American University ScholarshipVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the MA in Sustainability program?
+
You need a bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution in any field. A minimum GPA of 3.25 (on a 4.00 scale) is required in the last 60 hours of your first bachelor's degree or in an applicable master's degree program.
How do I prove my English proficiency?
+
If English is not your native language, you must submit proof of English proficiency. Specific details on accepted tests and scores are available through the university's graduate admissions information.
What is the application deadline for the Fall intake?
+
The final deadline for the Fall intake is December 15.
What are the estimated tuition fees for international students?
+
International students will pay tuition and fees, with specific amounts varying by program and based on factors like residency status. You can find detailed information using the university's tuition estimator.
What are the career prospects after completing this MA program?
+
Graduates are sought after in business, academia, and government, with potential roles as Chief Sustainability Officers, Program Directors, Research Associates, or Sustainability Specialists. The program also makes graduates eligible for STEM-OPT extension.
How long does the MA in Sustainability program take to complete?
+
The program requires 32 credit hours. It can be completed with either a thesis or by including a required capstone course.