At the O’Neill School, our environmental graduate programs are nationally recognized for their academic excellence, interdisciplinary strength, and real-world impact. We prepare future leaders to tackle today’s most pressing environmental challenges by equipping them with a powerful blend of scientific knowledge, analytical rigor, and policy expertise. Whether you're looking to deepen your scientific understanding, lead sustainability initiatives, or influence environmental policy at the highest levels, our programs offer unmatched opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.
Leading the Way in Environmental Graduate Education
75% of O’Neill master’s students receive funding packages of at least 25%
Competitive funding packages are available to assist in making our top-ranked school affordable.
Take the first step to get started
Master of Science in Environmental Science (MSES)
As one of the first, best, and largest programs of its kind in the nation, the on-campus MSES degree provides comprehensive training in environmental science, policy, management, and analysis. Students graduate with the expertise needed to become environmental professionals capable of driving solutions to global challenges. The MSES program emphasizes both scientific mastery and leadership development, ensuring graduates are ready to lead at the intersection of science and policy. Upon completion of this degree, international students will be eligible for the STEM OPT extension.
Master of Environmental Sustainability (MES)
The MES is an accelerated, 12 month program offered on campus, designed for aspiring sustainability leaders in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. With a forward-looking curriculum that integrates social, economic, and environmental dimensions of sustainability, MES students gain sought after skills to meet the growing demand for “green” jobs. Upon completion of this degree, international students will be eligible for the STEM OPT extension.
You are not required to complete the program on campus or in one year — we offer the same cutting-edge curriculum as a self-paced and fully online program. This format allows you to work through the program at your own pace, from anywhere in the world, finishing in as little as two years.
MPA-MSES Dual Degree Program
Our signature dual degree program combines the scientific depth of the MSES with the top-ranked Master of Public Affairs (MPA) for a dynamic, interdisciplinary education. This powerful combination positions graduates at the vital nexus of science, policy, and management, enabling them to shape environmental outcomes across sectors. By integrating both degrees into a streamlined path, students earn two prestigious credentials in less time than completing them separately. Upon completion of this degree, international students will be eligible for the STEM OPT extension.
O'Neill provided me with interdisciplinary energy and environmental policy and science training that opened the doors to career opportunities. I apply these skills and knowledge every day. The O'Neill School also enabled me to form relationships with faculty and peers, whom I still collaborate with on research and coalition building.
Devin Hartman, MPA-MSES’10. Director of Energy and Environmental Policy at R Street Institute