Masters of Science Program

The ENVS Masters of Science (MS) program at CU Boulder offers advanced training with a focus on cross-disciplinary perspectives and problem-oriented scholarship. Our mission is to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle 21st-century environmental challenges.ÌýMS students engage in coursework that encompasses the natural and social sciences, values and ethics, and policy. They also develop specialized research skills through the completion and defense of an original master’s thesis.

Program Requirements

Â鶹ÒùÔº pursuing a Master’s of Science Degree in the Environmental Studies program must complete 30 hours of coursework.Ìý

Required Courses (9 hours)Ìý

  • ENVS 5000 – Policy, Science and the EnvironmentÌý
  • ENVS 5003 – Conceptual Foundations of Environmental StudiesÌý
  • ENVS 5004 – Research Design in Environmental StudiesÌý

Thesis Credit Hours (6 hours)Ìý

  • Â鶹ÒùÔº should sign up for 6 thesis credit hours prior to completing their degree.Ìý

Remaining 15 hoursÌý

  • Â鶹ÒùÔº should use the remaining 15 hours to complete courses recommended by their first-year guidance committee.Ìý

Major Milestones

  1. Guidance Committee Meeting: In the first six weeks of the first semester, a guidance committee of at least three faculty members will review the student’s academic and professional background and recommend a tailored coursework program.
  2. Thesis Proposal Meeting: By the end of the first academic year, students must propose an original research project to their thesis committee.
  3. Thesis Defense Meeting: At the end of the fourth semester, students present their research findings and defend their thesis.

Career Opportunities

Graduates with an MS in Environmental Studies often pursue further education, such as a PhD or advanced degrees in law and business. Others move directly into professional roles in both academic and private sectors. Recent graduates have secured positions in various industries, reflecting the versatility of the degree.