Master of Science in Environmental and Sustainability Policy (MS-ESP)
Turn sustainability challenges into solutions through policy, data, and leadership.
The Cornell Brooks School's Master of Science in Environmental & Sustainability Policy (MS-ESP) prepares future sustainability leaders to address complex environmental challenges through economics, policy analysis, data, and applied problem-solving.
This 12-month, STEM-designated Ivy League master’s program equips students with the skills needed for careers in sustainability strategy, environmental policy, energy management, resource economics, and consulting.
Program Highlights:
About the MS-ESP
The MS-ESP prepares students to address environmental challenges through interdisciplinary training in policy, economics, law, data analysis, and management.
Organizations worldwide need leaders who understand both the science behind environmental challenges and the policy frameworks needed to create effective, lasting solutions.
At Cornell Brooks, students learn how to:
- Analyze environmental and energy policies
- Evaluate sustainability strategies
- Use data to support decision-making
- Understand environmental economics
- Navigate climate and resource challenges
- Develop practical solutions for organizations and communities
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See How Cornell Students Develop Solutions for a Changing World
Is the Cornell MS-ESP Right for You?
The MS-ESP is designed for individuals who want to build careers solving environmental and sustainability challenges.
You may be a strong fit if you:
- Want to work in sustainability, climate policy, energy, or environmental management
- Are interested in how economics and policy influence environmental outcomes
- Want technical and analytical skills beyond traditional sustainability training
- Are pursuing careers in corporate sustainability or consulting
- Want an Ivy League graduate degree focused on real-world environmental challenges
The program welcomes students from diverse academic backgrounds, including:
- Environmental Science
- Economics
- Public Policy
- Engineering
- Business
- Social Sciences
- Natural Sciences
Study Sustainability at One of the World’s Leading Research Universities
Cornell provides an exceptional environment for students interested in environmental and sustainability challenges.
MS-ESP students benefit from connections across Cornell’s sustainability ecosystem, including interdisciplinary research, faculty expertise, and opportunities to engage with sustainability initiatives throughout the university.
Located in Ithaca, the program offers a distinctive setting for studying environmental challenges, surrounded by natural landscapes and a culture of sustainability-focused innovation.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Graduate education is a significant investment. Cornell provides financial support opportunities to help qualified students pursue advanced sustainability and policy training.
Tuition and Fees
$62,587
Includes tuition and fees, as well as estimated indirect costs such as housing, food, books, transportation, and personal expenses.
Financial Aid Opportunities
Students may be considered for:
- Merit-based scholarships
- Federal loans for eligible domestic students
- Private education loan options
Merit scholarships are automatically considered during the admissions process—no separate scholarship application is required.
What Can I Do With An MS-ESP?
The MS-ESP prepares graduates for careers where sustainability, policy, economics, and strategy intersect.
Potential Career Paths
- Sustainability Analyst
- Environmental Policy Analyst
- ESG Strategy Specialist
- Sustainability Consultant
- Energy Policy Analyst
- Climate Program Manager
- Resource Management Specialist
Where Graduates Work
- Corporate sustainability teams
- Consulting firms
- Energy organizations
- Government agencies
- International organizations
- Environmental nonprofits
Faculty Spotlight
Learn From Environmental Policy Experts
MS-ESP students learn from faculty conducting research on climate change, environmental economics, energy systems, and sustainability policy.
Salary Information
Salaries for MS‑ESP graduates vary by region, role, and experience, but entry‑ to mid‑level roles (e.g., environmental policy analyst, sustainability specialist) range from $80,000 to $95,000, with higher earning potential (over $100,000) in leadership, consulting, or senior positions.
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