Environmental Science and Policy
Master's
The Master of Science in Environmental Science and Policy program emphasizes a broadly interdisciplinary and synthetic approach that integrates knowledge in the environmental sciences with the social sciences.
Program overview
Lead environmental professionals
Northeastern’s Master of Science in Environmental Science and Policy, a joint program between the College of Science’s Department of Marine and Environmental Science and the College of Social Sciences and Humanities’ School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs, provides interdisciplinary training and environmental problem-solving expertise to the next generation of environmental professionals.
The program emphasizes a broadly interdisciplinary and synthetic approach that integrates knowledge in environmental science (conservation biology, climate change, fisheries science, ecosystem function, biodiversity, and restoration ecology) with social sciences (environmental sociology, economics, public policy, and development) and humanities (environmental history, philosophy, and ethics).
Northeastern’s Master of Science in Environmental Science and Policy, a joint program between the College of Science’s Department of Marine and Environmental Science and the College of Social Sciences and Humanities’ School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs, provides interdisciplinary training and environmental problem-solving expertise to the next generation of environmental professionals.
The program emphasizes a broadly interdisciplinary and synthetic approach that integrates knowledge in environmental science (conservation biology, climate change, fisheries science, ecosystem function, biodiversity, and restoration ecology) with social sciences (environmental sociology, economics, public policy, and development) and humanities (environmental history, philosophy, and ethics).
- Multidisciplinary program featuring opportunities to work with faculty across a wide range of disciplines.
- Flexible course offerings to meet specific student interests and supplement current skill sets.
- Strong emphasis on student and community involvement, including participation in the ESP Leadership Group, ESP LiFE, Alumni meet-ups, ESP volunteer outings, and our ESP social group.
- Optional research opportunities with Northeastern faculty and program partners in the region.
- Co-op opportunities to enhance academic course offerings.
- Can be completed within three semesters.
Students graduating from Northeastern’s interdisciplinary MS in Environmental Science and Policy will be prepared for a growing number of environmental careers that require integration of science and policy. This program trains students to be resourceful environmental professionals who will be competitive applicants for jobs in the private sector (such as environmental consultants), nonprofits (i.e. The Nature Conservancy, Environmental Defense Fund, and World Wildlife Fund), and the public sector (including local, state, federal, and international government bodies, such as serving as environmental science and policy experts within environmental conservation and natural resources agencies).
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.
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.
Online application
Application fee
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.)
Personal statement
Resumé
2 letters of recommendation
GRE is not required
English language proficiency:
Degree earned or in progress at a U.S / Canadian institution
Degree earned or in progress at an institution where English is the only medium of instruction
Official exam scores from either the TOEFL iBT (institution code is 3682), IELTS, PTE exam, or Duolingo English Test. Scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.
Program objectives
Prepare for success
This program prepares environmental professionals to critically analyze human-environment interactions, develop data-driven solutions, and influence policy decisions for a sustainable future.
Prepare to think critically about the underlying causes of environmental problems, the reciprocal relationship between ecosystems, and the range of potential policy approaches available to decision-makers.
Build the skills to create, implement, and evaluate policies that promote sustainable ecosystems and human well-being.
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Cost of attendance
Tuition and financial aid
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$68,184Tuition 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.
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