

The Master of Science in Industrial Ecology - Behavior, Education, and Communication at the University of Michigan provides a comprehensive program for students seeking advanced knowledge in sustainable systems, environmental behavior, and educational strategies. The curriculum emphasizes resource management, environmental policy, behavioral science, and communication techniques, preparing students to influence sustainable practices in industry and communities. Students engage in applied research, field studies, and program evaluation, developing skills necessary to assess environmental impact, design educational initiatives, and implement behavior change strategies. This program cultivates both research proficiency and practical expertise, equipping graduates to contribute to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
Learners participate in an interdisciplinary academic environment where industrial ecology, behavioral science, and education intersect. The curriculum offers opportunities for applied research, community engagement, and communication strategy development, allowing students to explore sustainability initiatives, corporate environmental responsibility, and public awareness campaigns. Through mentorship, workshops, and collaborative projects, students refine problem solving, analytical, and communication skills. With a focus on evidence based practice and applied sustainability, the program prepares graduates to develop impactful sustainability programs, guide organizational behavior change, and influence policy and educational efforts in environmental contexts.
Semester 1 - Foundations in Industrial Ecology and Communication
• Principles of Industrial Ecology
• Environmental Behavior and Psychology
• Research Methods in Sustainability
• Communication Strategies for Behavior Change
Semester 2 - Intermediate Applications and Analysis
• Sustainable Systems and Resource Management
• Environmental Education Techniques
• Applied Research in Industrial Ecology
• Elective in Specialized Sustainability Topics
Semester 3 - Advanced Research and Practice
• Policy and Environmental Decision Making
• Behavior Change Program Design
• Fieldwork and Applied Research Project
• Seminar in Environmental Communication
Semester 4 - Capstone and Professional Development
• Master’s Thesis or Applied Project
• Leadership in Sustainability Initiatives
• Evaluation and Assessment of Programs
• Career Preparation and Professional Skills
Graduates of this program acquire advanced research, analytical, and communication skills that prepare them for careers in sustainability consulting, environmental education, corporate responsibility, and policy analysis. They develop expertise in behavior change programs, environmental assessment, and communication strategy, enabling them to implement effective sustainability initiatives in organizations, communities, and government agencies. The program also prepares graduates for roles in research institutions, non profit organizations, and environmental advocacy. Graduates leave equipped to lead sustainability projects, influence environmental behavior, and contribute to policy and educational initiatives.
This program is ideal for students seeking a curriculum that integrates industrial ecology with applied behavioral research and communication practice, offering opportunities for hands on projects, field studies, and mentorship. Learners benefit from faculty expertise, interdisciplinary collaboration, and applied training that strengthen analytical, research, and problem solving skills. The curriculum emphasizes evidence based practice, sustainability, and professional development, preparing graduates to address complex environmental and behavioral challenges. With its focus on research excellence and practical proficiency, the program provides a rigorous academic environment for students aspiring to careers in sustainability, environmental education, and industrial ecology practice.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: 734-764-8129
Email: rackadmis@umich.edu
Address: Graduate Admissions Office, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA