Skip to content
Two Days. Endless Opportunities.
Join our Virtual Graduate Open House on March 17-18.
Northeastern University Graduate Programs Home
College of Engineering

Climate Science and Engineering

Master's

The MS in Climate Science and Engineering program prepares students to tackle the inherently multidisciplinary challenges that climate change presents for both natural and engineered systems.

A man in a light blue shirt sits at a desk with papers, focusing on a presentation. A small wind turbine model is on the table. The screen behind him displays images of wind turbines and solar panels in a technology-focused setting.
Program Format
On ground
Time Commitment
Part time, Full time
Duration
2 Year(s)
Entry Term(s)
Fall, Spring
Meets F1 visa requirements
Yes

Program overview

Leaders in climate solutions

Offered jointly by the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and the Department of Marine and Environmental Sciences, the MS in Climate Science and Engineering prepares students to tackle the inherently multidisciplinary challenges that climate change presents for both natural and engineered systems.

The program provides training in the fundamental science of climate systems, as well as the engineering strategies and technologies required for decarbonization and adaptation to climate change. The curriculum includes a core set of courses that build essential knowledge and analytical skills, with restricted electives that allow students to explore climate-related topics from low-carbon energy systems to nature-based solutions to urban adaptation planning.

  • Northeastern’s interdisciplinary, highly accomplished faculty are researching climate change in the field, in the laboratory, and through state-of-the-science climate and earth system modeling. These efforts are supported with state-of-the-art labs and facilities across our global campuses.
  • Students can choose coursework, report, or thesis-based options.
  • Upon completion students can pursue a doctoral research program.
  • Incoming students will typically hold a bachelor’s degree in a science, engineering, or related field.
  • Northeastern has significant interdisciplinary expertise, courses, and research in this area, providing outstanding opportunities for students.
  • The program is unique in that it offers an interdisciplinary program focused on the technical aspects of climate change.
  • Students have the opportunity to participate in Northeastern’s top-ranked cooperative education program, gaining up to 8 months of professional experience as part of the academic curriculum.

Upon completion of the program, students will be prepared for climate-facing positions in engineering and industrial firms, consultancies, and environmental organizations in the public and private sector. They can also pursue a doctoral-level research program.

 

Advance your career with a paired degree: earn a Master of Science in Climate Science and Engineering while completing a Graduate Certificate in Engineering Leadership through Northeastern’s Gordon Institute of Engineering Leadership. This powerful combination lets you gain deep technical expertise alongside hands-on leadership experience, including a 16-semester-hour certificate with an industry-based challenge project guided by multiple mentors. Prepare to lead and innovate in engineering organizations. To pursue this path, you must be admitted to The Gordon Institute.

Admissions

Apply to the program

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.

Applications received after the stated deadline dates will be accepted and processed as quickly as possible; however it may not be possible to have a decision rendered in time for the applicant to begin taking classes for the desired term if admitted.

Applications submitted by the referenced dates will receive full consideration for the referenced term. Applications received after the referenced dates will be considered on a case-by-case basis.


Fall Semester Entry

Early ActionDecember 1
Final Deadline International Students outside the USJune 1
Final Deadline: International Students Inside the USJuly 1
Domestic applicantsAugust 1

Spring Semester Entry

International Students Outside the USNovember 1
International Students Inside the USDecember 1
Domestic ApplicantsDecember 1

  • Completed online application form

  • Two letters of recommendation

  • Transcripts from all institutions attended

    • The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)

  • GRE is not required for terms starting during the 2025-2026 academic years

  • Statement of purpose

  • Resumé

  • TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for international applicants unless the waiver requirements are met

  • The application fee is waived for all new applicants applying to any of our Master of Science or Graduate Certificates for the fall 2026 term.

Program objectives

Prepare for success

Students develop expertise and learn to communicate effectively on climate topics between science and engineering disciplines and with the general public.

Deep expertise

Students develop expertise in carbon cycling in earth systems and the effects of climate forcing in atmospheric, terrestrial, and ocean systems.

Design and analysis

Students design and analyze the technical potential of options to adapt to climate change and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.

Connect with us

Want more information?

We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team. 

Loading...
Market outlook
Industry at a glance
Here's a look at current market trends and the career landscape.

Occupations

Cost of attendance

Tuition and financial aid

  • $61,728
    Tuition in USD

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.

For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.

There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.

Visit tuition & financial aid
Studying in Boston

A hub of innovation

A group of people walks along a curved pathway beside a modern building, with tall skyscrapers in the background. The late afternoon sun casts a warm glow over the scene, creating long shadows on the path and highlighting the cityscape.

Northeastern's first campus builds on Boston's legacy of innovation. Our 37-plus research facilities allow students and faculty to work on groundbreaking research, while our deep ties to the biotech, healthcare, education, and startup industries provide unique opportunities for learning.

#1

Best state to live in

(WalletHub, 2023)

110K+

Northeastern alumni in Greater Boston

#3

Best state for education

(U.S. News & World Report, 2024)