The Environmental Policy program at University of Duke provides a multidisciplinary academic structure that examines the economic, political, and scientific dimensions of environmental decision-making. Students explore how public policy, regulatory institutions, and economic incentives shape environmental outcomes at local, national, and global levels. Through coursework grounded in environmental economics, policy analysis, climate science, and governance theory, learners develop the skills needed to evaluate policy impacts using approaches that are analytical, evidence-based, systematic, and methodical. This foundation prepares students to understand the complexities behind environmental challenges and the mechanisms used to address them through policy design.
Over the two-year period, the program encourages students to engage with real-world environmental issues through applied research, quantitative evaluation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Learners have access to faculty expertise in sustainability, climate policy, and environmental systems, as well as opportunities to work with data-driven tools and policy modeling frameworks. This structure helps them build a holistic understanding of how environmental decisions are made, how policies interact with economic systems, and how governance structures affect long-term environmental outcomes. The curriculum fosters integrated, contextual, forward-thinking, and research-driven reasoning essential for contributing to environmental policymaking and sustainability leadership.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Environmental Policy
- Degree Type: S. Master
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 31 May 2026
- Location: Duke University, United States
- Field of Study: Environmental Economics & Policy
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
• Semester 1 – Foundations of Environmental Policy & Economics
- Environmental Economics and Resource Allocation
- Foundations of Environmental Policy Analysis
- Quantitative Methods for Policy Evaluation
- Environmental Governance and Institutions
• Semester 2 – Advanced Environmental Systems & Regulatory Design
- Climate Policy and Emissions Management
- Cost-Benefit Analysis for Public Policy
- Environmental Law and Regulatory Processes
- Seminar: Contemporary Issues in Environmental Policy
• Semester 3 – Applied Research, Modeling & Sustainability Practice
- Policy Modeling and Environmental Impact Assessment
- Energy Systems, Markets, and Sustainability
- Advanced Topics in Environmental Decision-Making
- Research Workshop / Applied Policy Project
• Semester 4 – Thesis, Policy Assessment & Professional Development
- Master’s Thesis / Independent Policy Research
- Data Interpretation for Environmental Policy
- Leadership, Negotiation, and Policy Communication
- Academic Portfolio and Policy Presentation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program can pursue careers in government environmental agencies, international policy organizations, sustainability consulting firms, and environmental research institutes, where analytical insight and policy expertise are essential. Many work as environmental policy analysts, climate policy specialists, sustainability planners, regulatory advisors, or economic modelers responsible for evaluating environmental programs, designing policy instruments, and assessing long-term ecological and economic impacts. Others contribute to nonprofit organizations, development agencies, corporate sustainability divisions, or environmental advocacy groups, applying data-driven evaluation to support responsible environmental governance. The program’s combination of economic analysis, policy modeling, and interdisciplinary study prepares graduates for roles where informed decision-making and strategic environmental planning are central.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this program because it offers rigorous policy training, interdisciplinary depth, and faculty recognized for environmental policy expertise, creating a strong foundation for both academic and professional development. The curriculum integrates quantitative analysis, environmental economics, and policy design tools, allowing learners to strengthen their ability to interpret complex environmental issues across multiple dimensions. This structure supports independent research while offering collaborative opportunities that help students build a strong analytical foundation aligned with careers in policy, sustainability, and environmental governance. With its emphasis on evaluation, strategy, and cross-sector engagement, the program provides a meaningful pathway for students committed to improving environmental outcomes through informed policymaking.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 (919) 684-8111
Email: admissions@duke.edu
Address: University of Duke, Durham, North Carolina, United States
