Climate Science and Solutions MS

Climate Science and Solutions Master Program

Climate Science and Solutions Master’s Program

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Climate Science and Solutions (CSS) is a Professional Science Master’s degree designed to prepare students for the growing climate industry. This innovative 18-month, non-thesis program combines rigorous climate science education with professional skills training to meet the increasing demand for climate professionals in various sectors.

Why Climate Science and Solutions?

Climate change represents one of the most pressing challenges of our time, creating unprecedented demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between climate science and practical solutions. The CSS program prepares graduates to:

  • Apply climate science knowledge in organizational settings
  • Develop and implement climate mitigation and adaptation strategies
  • Communicate complex scientific information to diverse audiences
  • Lead climate initiatives in government, business, and non-profit sectors

Program Highlights

🎓 Professional Focus

  • 18-month intensive program - faster time to degree
  • Non-thesis format - emphasis on practical application
  • 36-credit curriculum - comprehensive yet focused
  • Professional development integrated throughout

🏢 Industry Connections

  • Advisory board of industry professionals
  • Networking opportunities with climate professionals
  • Internship program providing real-world experience
  • Career placement support and job market preparation

🌍 Institutional Commitment

  • NAU is committed to carbon neutrality by 2030
  • Located in Arizona, addressing regional climate vulnerabilities
  • Founding signatory of the Presidents’ Climate Commitment

Curriculum Structure (36 Credits Total)

Core Courses (18 Credits)

The foundation of climate science knowledge and professional skills:

  • Science of Climate Change - Understanding Earth’s climate system and human impacts
  • Economics of Natural Resources - Economic principles applied to environmental issues
  • Greenhouse Gas Science and Management - GHG accounting, measurement, and mitigation
  • Sustainable Systems Principles - Systems thinking for sustainability solutions
  • Environmental Discourse on Climate - Communication and policy frameworks

Electives (12 Credits)

Specialized courses tailored to student interests and career goals:

Biological Approaches

  • Ecosystem responses to climate change
  • Conservation biology applications
  • Biodiversity and climate adaptation

Engineering Solutions

  • Renewable energy systems
  • Green infrastructure design
  • Technology assessment and implementation

Social Sciences and Policy

  • Climate policy analysis
  • Environmental justice and equity
  • Community engagement strategies

Economic Strategies

  • Carbon markets and trading
  • Climate finance and investment
  • Cost-benefit analysis of climate actions

Professional Development (6 Credits)

Hands-on experience and career preparation:

  • Professional Summer Internship - Real-world application of skills
  • Career Skills Development - Professional communication, leadership, and project management

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of the CSS program, graduates will be able to:

  1. Understand Global Climate Change

    • Comprehend the scientific basis of climate change
    • Analyze climate data and projections
    • Evaluate uncertainty and risk in climate assessments

  2. Conduct Greenhouse Gas Inventories

    • Perform organizational carbon footprint assessments
    • Apply GHG accounting standards and protocols
    • Develop emissions reduction strategies

  3. Evaluate Social and Economic Impacts

    • Assess climate change impacts on communities and economies
    • Analyze adaptation and mitigation co-benefits
    • Consider environmental justice implications

  4. Analyze Mitigation Strategies

    • Evaluate effectiveness of climate policies
    • Design emissions reduction programs
    • Assess renewable energy and efficiency options

  5. Communicate Scientific Information

    • Translate complex climate science for diverse audiences
    • Develop compelling narratives for climate action
    • Facilitate stakeholder engagement processes

  6. Develop Professional Skills

    • Lead interdisciplinary project teams
    • Manage climate-related initiatives
    • Navigate organizational change processes

Ideal Candidate Background

The CSS program welcomes students from diverse academic backgrounds, particularly those with experience or interest in:

  • Engineering - Renewable energy, environmental systems, green technology
  • Science - Earth sciences, environmental science, biology, chemistry
  • Environmental Studies - Sustainability, environmental policy, conservation
  • Business - Sustainability management, environmental economics, green finance

Key Qualities:

  • Commitment to addressing climate change
  • Interest in practical, solution-oriented approaches
  • Strong analytical and communication skills
  • Desire to work in interdisciplinary teams

Career Outcomes

CSS graduates are prepared for leadership roles in the rapidly expanding climate sector:

Climate Analyst

  • Conduct climate risk assessments
  • Develop climate adaptation plans
  • Analyze emissions data and trends
  • Support climate disclosure and reporting

Sustainability Manager

  • Lead organizational sustainability initiatives
  • Develop and implement climate strategies
  • Manage environmental programs and projects
  • Coordinate stakeholder engagement

Climate Policy Specialist

  • Analyze and develop climate policies
  • Support regulatory compliance
  • Facilitate multi-stakeholder processes
  • Advocate for climate action

Climate Consultant

  • Provide expert advice to organizations
  • Conduct climate vulnerability assessments
  • Design mitigation and adaptation strategies
  • Support client climate goal development

Energy and Environmental Project Manager

  • Oversee renewable energy projects
  • Manage environmental remediation efforts
  • Coordinate green infrastructure initiatives
  • Lead sustainability program implementation

Application Information

Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (on 4.0 scale)
  • GRE scores (may be waived for qualified applicants)
  • Letters of recommendation (typically 2-3)
  • Statement of purpose outlining career goals and program fit
  • Resume or CV demonstrating relevant experience

Application Deadlines

  • Priority Deadline: January 15
  • Final Deadline: March 1
  • International Students: December 1 (recommended)

How to Apply

  1. Submit application through NAU Graduate College
  2. Upload all required documents
  3. Pay application fee
  4. Request official transcripts
  5. Schedule optional informational interview

Program Contact Information

Email: Climate@nau.edu
Phone: 928-523-9333
Location: Room A108, Ashurst Building, Flagstaff, AZ 86011

Financial Support

  • Graduate assistantships available for qualified students
  • Internship stipends provided for professional experiences
  • Scholarship opportunities through the Graduate College
  • Federal financial aid eligibility for degree programs

Next Steps

  1. Attend an Information Session - Learn more about the program and meet faculty
  2. Connect with Current Students - Hear firsthand experiences from CSS students
  3. Explore Career Opportunities - Review job market trends in climate professions
  4. Submit Your Application - Begin your journey toward a climate science career

Ready to make a difference in addressing climate change? The CSS program provides the knowledge, skills, and professional network to launch your career in the growing climate sector.

Apply to NAU

The Climate Science and Solutions program is designed for students who want to apply scientific knowledge to real-world climate challenges while developing the professional skills necessary for leadership in the climate industry.

Graduate Programs Climate Science Professional Masters Sustainability Climate Policy