Sustainability

The Bachelor of Arts in Sustainability at Arizona State University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills to address complex environmental, social, and economic challenges facing our world today. This interdisciplinary program emphasizes the integration of scientific understanding with policy development, economic considerations, and ethical principles to foster sustainable solutions across diverse sectors. Students in this program will explore critical topics such as environmental systems, resource management, renewable energy, climate change mitigation, social justice, and sustainable development practices. The curriculum combines coursework from multiple disciplines, including environmental science, policy studies, economics, and social sciences, providing a well-rounded education that prepares graduates to become effective change agents in various sustainability-related fields. Throughout their studies, students will engage with real-world problems through experiential learning opportunities, research projects, internships, and community engagement initiatives. The program encourages critical thinking, collaborative problem-solving, and innovative approaches to sustainability challenges. Graduates of the ASU Sustainability program are expected to pursue careers in environmental consulting, government agencies, non-profit organizations, corporate sustainability departments, and entrepreneurship focused on sustainable products and services. They will possess the capabilities to analyze sustainability issues comprehensively, develop strategic solutions, and contribute positively to creating resilient and equitable communities. Arizona State University’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its extensive research centers, campus-wide initiatives, and partnerships with industry and government, providing students with valuable resources and networks to support their professional development. This program embodies ASU's mission to produce solutions-oriented professionals who will lead efforts toward a more sustainable future for society and the planet.

37 credit hours and a thesis, or 
37 credit hours including a capstone course (SOS 596)

Each student will formulate a plan of study in consultation with their supervisory committee. The master's degree program is divided into the following:

Core: (19 credit hours)

• SOS 510 Perspectives on Sustainability (3)
• SOS 520 Research Design and Methods for Sustainability (3)
• SOS 525 Social-Ecological-Technical Systems: Domains and Interfaces (3)
• SOS 579 Proposal Writing (3)
• SOS 581 Synthesis for Sustainability Research (3)
• SOS 589 SOS Community of Graduate Student Scholars (1)*

Electives: (15 credit hours)

• Methods and Methodology Electives (6)
• Normative Dimensions of Sustainability Electives (3)
• General (6) electives including but not limited to the following prefixes:
• SOS, ASB, ART, PAF, SGS, POS, SOC, PSB, PGS, PHI, COM, CPP, CRD, ESS, PGV, NTR, MCO, GCU, SCM, HPS, HST, JHR, JMC, JUS, LAW, LES, PUP, SBS, RTM, STS, TDM, URB

Culminating Experience: (6 credit hours)

• SOS 596 Capstone (Scientific Paper) (6) or SOS 599 Thesis (6)

*taken over four semesters, for four credit hours total

Students who are also part of the Master's International Peace Corps Program must complete a Peace Corps assignment abroad, and it is expected that their thesis or capstone scientific paper will be drawn from their experience in the Peace Corps. Students in the program will earn six credit hours toward the master's program requirements.

The taught-course element of the program will be evaluated through course-specific examinations, research papers or applied projects and will be considered to have been successfully completed if the student obtains a GPA of 3.25 or higher. Division of Graduate Education policies and procedures for fulfillment of degree requirements must also be met.

Applicants must submit an online graduate admission application.

An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.

The school encourages applicants with diverse educational backgrounds and experience that are relevant to the school's core objectives. In addition to the general requirements for admission to the Division of Graduate Education, the school requires:

1. a 3.25 GPA in the last 60 credit hours of undergraduate course work
2. a statement of intent*
3. GRE scores
4. three letters of recommendation
5. resume or curriculum vitae

*The statement of intent should not exceed 600 words and should:

• Describe how the applicant's background will contribute to success in the program.
• Describe how completion of the degree will support long-term career goals.
• Elaborate on key research questions the applicant wishes to address or problems to solve as part of the plan of study.
• Identify potential faculty advisors.

Students interested in applying to participate in the Master's International Peace Corps Program will be able to do so after they've been admitted to the master's degree program.

Scholarships

• Teaching or Research Assistantships
• Global Education

The Bachelor of Science in Sustainability at Arizona State University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students to address complex environmental, social, and economic challenges through interdisciplinary approaches. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of ecological principles with practical solutions to promote sustainable development across various sectors. Students gain a solid foundation in environmental science, policy, economics, and ethics, which equips them to influence positive change in local, national, and global contexts. The program offers specialized tracks such as Sustainable Energy, Sustainable Food Systems, and Urban Sustainability, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests and career goals. Throughout their studies, students engage in experiential learning opportunities, including internships, research projects, and community engagement initiatives, fostering real-world problem-solving skills. Arizona State University’s commitment to sustainability is reflected not only in its academic offerings but also in its operational practices, campus initiatives, and partnerships with industry leaders committed to environmental stewardship. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in renewable energy, environmental consulting, urban planning, policymaking, and nonprofit organizations focused on sustainability issues. The program is supported by faculty members who are experts in their respective fields and who actively contribute to research, innovation, and policy development related to sustainability. Students also have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources dedicated to sustainability research and education. The Bachelor of Science in Sustainability at ASU aims to develop innovative thinkers and responsible leaders equipped to tackle the pressing sustainability challenges of our time, fostering a sustainable future for generations to come.