Sustainability Management
The Sustainability Management Master of Science at Columbia University is a 1.5-year interdisciplinary program that prepares students to lead sustainability initiatives across private, public, and non-profit sectors. Integrating environmental science, project management, policy, and organizational strategy, the program focuses on equipping professionals with the tools needed to implement measurable sustainability goals within complex systems. Students learn to design and manage projects in energy efficiency, climate adaptation, waste reduction, and environmental compliance, developing a practical understanding of how sustainability principles are applied in real-world organizational contexts.
Offered jointly by Columbia’s School of Professional Studies and the Earth Institute, the program leverages world-class faculty expertise, cutting-edge research, and strong industry partnerships. Courses balance technical training with leadership development, helping students build competencies in environmental metrics, financial modeling, stakeholder engagement, and regulatory analysis. Located in New York City, the program offers access to a global sustainability network, career development opportunities, and exposure to active environmental projects. Designed for professionals who aim to make a tangible impact on environmental performance and long-term value, this program delivers the strategic and operational skills needed to drive sustainability across industries.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Sustainability Management
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 1,5 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 May 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Project Management
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Core Competencies and Foundations
- Sustainability Management and Leadership
- Environmental Systems and Climate Science
- Statistics and Decision Analysis
- Project Management for Sustainability
- Financial Management and Reporting
- Stakeholder Communication and Public Policy
Year 2 – Specialization and Applied Practice
- Energy Systems and Carbon Strategies
- Corporate Sustainability Reporting and Compliance
- Sustainable Supply Chains and Operations
- Capstone Workshop in Sustainability Implementation
- Electives in Circular Economy, Urban Sustainability, or ESG
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Sustainability Management program are well-prepared for leadership roles in corporate sustainability, environmental consulting, government policy, and non-profit environmental advocacy. Many alumni take on positions as sustainability project managers, ESG analysts, climate strategy consultants, or environmental compliance officers, working within multinational corporations, municipal agencies, and international development organizations. Others lead cross-functional initiatives in renewable energy, sustainable finance, or resource efficiency. The program’s integration of science, management, and public engagement equips graduates with the technical knowledge and communication skills to design, evaluate, and scale impactful sustainability solutions in diverse organizational environments.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for professionals who want to combine environmental insight with project execution and organizational leadership in a globally connected setting. Columbia University’s Sustainability Management program stands out for its unique balance of scientific rigor and management practice, enabling students to build sustainable solutions that are both environmentally effective and operationally feasible. The curriculum offers hands-on experience through capstone workshops, case studies, and access to real-time sustainability data and policy shifts. Being located in New York City gives students a front-row seat to global sustainability efforts and a direct path to engaging with leading industry professionals. For individuals committed to advancing environmental responsibility and strategic change, this program offers the depth, flexibility, and practical focus to lead with purpose.
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
