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Indiana University Online

Environmental Sustainability, M.E.S.

Prepare for a career in the business of sustainability in the public, private, or nonprofit sector with a Master of Environmental Sustainability (M.E.S.). This self-paced, 36 credit-hour degree program, from the top-ranked IU O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, will give you the tools you need to meet the growing demand for “green” jobs across the nation.

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Course Delivery: 100% Online

Total Credits: 36

In-State Tuition Per Credit: $601.59

Out-of-State Tuition Per Credit: $1,460.16

Cost of attendance may vary by campus. View the total cost calculator

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Degree Overview

As the #2 fastest-growing job in the country, sustainability specialists are in higher demand than ever. This program features a core curriculum that was designed in consultation with employers to provide the most in-demand skills they seek in sustainability professionals today.

Guided by world-renowned faculty and leading researchers, you’ll learn cutting-edge practices that emphasize social, economic, and environmental sustainability. You can pick from concentrations in sustainable environmental policy and planning or municipal and industrial sustainability.

Enjoy the flexibility to learn on a schedule that works for you while mastering the quantitative, economic, and management expertise required to meet the exploding demand for sustainability jobs across the nation.

The Master of Environmental Sustainability Program gives you the opportunity to get a high-quality education from one of the best public and environmental schools in the nation.

Anna Meyer M.E.S. ’25

To be accepted to this program, you must have a bachelor's degree

Applications require:
  • $70 application fee
  • Three references
  • Unofficial Transcripts
  • Resume or CV
  • Personal Statement
    • Discuss what leading for the greater good means to you. Describe your passion, and how an O’Neill degree will help you to make your passion actionable.
International applicants will be required to submit English proficiency scores (IELTS or TOEFL)

GRE and GMAT scores are optional for admission to an O'Neill Online Program

To graduate with an M.E.S, you must complete 36 credit hours.

Requirements are broken down as follows:
  • Required courses (21 credit hours)
  • Concentration courses (9 credit hours)
  • Elective courses (3 credit hours)
  • Capstone course (3 credits)

These courses represent a sampling of core courses. A full course plan will be crafted upon program admittance.

Core classes:

  • Environmental Sustainability Core
    • Foundations in science, assessment, management, and quantitative analysis
  • Social and Economic Sustainability Core
    • Foundations course in leadership and a choice of social and economic context

Find course descriptions with our Search Schedule of Classes/Courses (Public) tool.

  • Municipal and Industrial Sustainability
  • Sustainable Environmental Policy and Planning

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