Mission Statement
The M.A. in Sustainability is designed to prepare students with advanced knowledge and skills to address and resolve the challenges of sustainable practices in the 21st century. With a multifaceted program of study addressing the intersection of science, technology, environmental justice, business and policy, the curriculum complements CSUN’s institutional learning outcomes to advance students’ intellectual development while preparing them for opportunities and success in their careers.
About the Program
The master’s degree in Sustainability is structured to train students in the foundational theories and practices of sustainability from a dedicated systems-level approach, applying evidence-based research techniques to solve problems at the community, regional, national and global levels. One of the key goals of the program is to educate students to be able to understand and develop strategies for addressing and mitigating problems in water resources, energy use, management skills in the business community, resolution of social and environmental challenges and inequities, and the effective development and application of policy language and implementation.
As a cohort-based learning experience, the curriculum draws on the diverse expertise of the teaching community at CSUN. The program offers a core curriculum designed to develop a common language in sustainability practice while supporting students in one of four areas of specialization: (1) Environmental Science, Water Resources and Technology; (2) Community Well-being and Social Justice; (3) Corporate Sustainability; and (4) Sustainability Policy and Government. All students will complete a culminating experience as a graduate thesis or project under the direction of a chair and faculty committee. Comprised of a diverse range of courses in each specialization, the 33-unit program is designed for completion in two years.
Academic Advisement
Academic advisement is critical to the success and timely graduation of students in the program. Students initially must consult with the program director. Subsequent advisement with the Thesis/Project Committee includes the program director, director of the Institute for Sustainability and faculty chosen by the student from affiliated departments in the area of specialization.
Careers
Students with a master’s degree in Sustainability are employed in the public and private sectors with skills as environmental technicians and engineers; community and regional planners; environmental restoration specialists; energy, water, wastewater engineers; climate scientists; landscape architects; sustainable food and health specialists; and business and management designers and analysts for sustainable communities.
Clubs and Societies
Contact
Master of Arts in Sustainability
Program Director: Amalie Orme
(818) 677-3864