Climate and Society
The Master of Arts in Climate and Society provides an interdisciplinary understanding of climate science, environmental systems and their impact on human communities. Students examine climate variability, sustainability, policy frameworks and societal responses to environmental change. The program combines scientific analysis with social inquiry, helping learners develop analytical expertise in evaluating climate impacts, assessing adaptation strategies and understanding the intersection of human and environmental systems. Through coursework, research projects and applied studies, students gain insight into how climate affects economies, health, infrastructure and social development.
The program also emphasizes research skills, data interpretation and evidence based policy analysis. Faculty mentorship, fieldwork and project based learning allow students to build practical competence in climate modeling, risk assessment and societal impact evaluation. Graduates are prepared to contribute to climate policy, environmental management, disaster preparedness and sustainability initiatives. By integrating natural and social sciences, the curriculum ensures that students leave with both conceptual understanding and applied skills essential for careers addressing climate challenges and promoting societal resilience.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Climate and Society
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1,5 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 May 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Climate Studies & Meteorology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 Foundations in Climate and Society
• Introduction to Climate Science
• Environmental Systems and Sustainability
• Climate Data Analysis and Modeling
• Research Methods in Climate Studies
Semester 2 Climate Impacts and Policy
• Climate Change and Society
• Environmental Policy and Governance
• Risk Assessment and Adaptation Strategies
• Seminar in Climate Studies
Semester 3 Capstone and Applied Research
• Applied Climate Research Project
• Climate Communication and Stakeholder Engagement
• Policy Evaluation and Decision Making
• Professional Development in Climate Studies
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in government agencies, environmental NGOs, climate research organizations and policy consulting, where understanding climate science and societal impacts is critical. Alumni may work as climate analysts, policy advisors, sustainability consultants, environmental planners or research associates, applying interdisciplinary knowledge to address climate risks and promote resilience. The program’s combination of analytical skills, applied experience and policy understanding equips graduates to contribute to decision making, environmental planning and community adaptation initiatives. Some graduates pursue doctoral studies in climate science, environmental policy or sustainability research. Graduates leave ready to tackle climate challenges and support evidence based solutions.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this degree for its combination of interdisciplinary learning and applied focus, offering a curriculum that bridges climate science with societal analysis. The program emphasizes research, policy evaluation and practical application, allowing learners to develop skills in climate assessment, risk analysis and stakeholder engagement. Faculty mentorship, fieldwork opportunities and capstone projects support students in translating knowledge into actionable strategies for sustainability and resilience. For individuals seeking a graduate program that equips them to understand climate challenges and influence societal responses, this degree provides a targeted and impactful pathway.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
