Master of Arts in Environmental & Sustainability Policy

The Master of Arts in Environmental and Sustainability Policy (MA-ESP) at the Trachtenberg School offers an interdisciplinary approach to environmental and sustainability studies. This STEM program prepares students to enter and excel in environmental policy careers in government, nonprofit organizations, the private sector, and environmental advocacy groups.

Students will take courses in the areas of science, law, policy, culture and ethics, economics, research, and more. The program curriculum is integrative, flexible, and reflects the knowledge and skills required of environmental policy leaders.  

The program culminates in a capstone project, during which students collaborate in small groups on a pro bono product for a client of their choice.

Program Highlights

Multidisciplinary

The ESP curriculum draws on disciplines including environmental economics, environmental law, public policy, research methods and a two-semester environmental science course. This STEM program teaches students to craft policy using science-based evidence, understand economic incentives and develop a clear-eyed understanding of environmental law and politics.

Practical and Theoretical

The curriculum blends theory and practical experience, culminating in a professional, client-oriented capstone project based on a real-world environmental policy issue. Through group work, students gain experience collaborating on environmental policy issues.

Tailored to You

Master's students can customize their coursework around the required core curriculum by choosing electives from virtually any academic department in the Columbian College. Additionally, GW offers courses at consortium partner schools including American University, George Mason University and Georgetown University.

MA-ESP Course Requirements

The MA-ESP curriculum consists of 36 credit hours. Full-time students typically complete the MA-ESP in two years. Part-time students complete the degree in three to four years. The MA-ESP program is available at the George Washington University's Foggy Bottom campus in downtown Washington, D.C. It is not available as a distance-learning program.

Students complete a common core and select elective coursework in a field of study tailored to their unique interests and career objectives. Other core requirements provide the broad intellectual base and tools necessary for making multidisciplinary environmental and resource decisions.

Note: Students who feel that their prior undergraduate coursework duplicates one of the core requirements may seek a waiver of the requirement. If approved, an elective course can be taken instead. All core courses and most electives are three credits. Please also note that some courses outlined below may have prerequisite requirements.