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College of Engineering

Sustainability Engineering Leadership

Master's

The Master of Science in Sustainability Engineering Leadership is a unique double-degree program from Northeastern University and University College Dublin that combines sustainability, engineering, and leadership.

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Program Format
On ground
Time Commitment
Part time, Full time
Duration
2 Year(s)
Entry Term(s)
Fall
Meets F1 visa requirements
Yes

Program overview

Meet the demand for skilled leadership

The Master of Science in Sustainability Engineering Leadership is a double-degree program from Northeastern University and University College Dublin. The degree focuses on engineering design, development, and assessment of sustainable technologies, coupled with the engineering management and leadership skills needed to bring these technologies to market.

Students select one of the following concentrations:

  • Energy and Climate Technologies
  • Sustainability Assessment

Additionally, students pursue an industry-based research thesis or leadership challenge.

The first year of the program is in Boston and the second year is spent in Dublin. This program meets F1 compliance for the Northeastern first year. Upon graduation, students earn an MS degree in Sustainability Engineering Leadership from both Northeastern University and University College Dublin.

Sustainability Assessment: Analytical methods and modeling frameworks to assess the environmental performance and guide the green engineering of materials, processes, and products.

Energy and Climate Technologies: Engineering design and operation of technologies that enable decarbonization of the energy system and adaptation to climate change.

  • Engage in a double-degree program offered in two countries (U.S. and Ireland) at top engineering schools, providing wider career options and deepened knowledge.
  • Partner with the established and sought-after Gordon Institute for Engineering Leadership at Northeastern.
  • Gain the option to participate in Northeastern’s top-ranked cooperative education program and graduate with real-world experience.
  • Build a foundation for pursuing doctoral-level research if desired.
  • According to Bloomberg’s January 2024 report, environmental, social, and governance investments and assets are expected to surpass $40 trillion by 2030.
  • There is a growing global demand for skills combining sustainability engineering and leadership due to the increased focus on the technological, industrial, and policy aspects of addressing sustainability challenges, including climate change.

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 USOctober 1
International Students Inside the USDecember 1
Domestic ApplicantsDecember 1

  • Completed online application form

  • Application fee

  • 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 2023-2024 or 2024-2025 academic years

  • Statement of purpose

  • Resumé

  • TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for international applicants

Program objectives

Prepare for success

Graduates of the program are prepared for in-demand senior technical sustainability positions in engineering and industrial firms, consultancies, and environmental organizations.

Drive sustainability improvements

Develop the skills needed to quantify the sustainability of a product, process, or system; identify areas for improvement; and devise and manage measures for implementation to improve sustainability.

Optimize engineering decisions

Apply engineering management and decision-making tools to evaluate the technical and economic potential of sustainable technologies.

Lead sustainability initiatives

Build the capacity to lead the implementation of sustainability principles within an organization through an understanding of technical requirements, quantitative skills, critical analysis skills, and leadership skills.

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

  • $69,444
    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
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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. 

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