Photo of delta wetlands on a clear day.
Find another program

Carbon Ecology and Management
Master of Science

Conquer environmental challenges with the science of carbon dynamics

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Build Sustainable Ecosytems and Tackle World Challenges

The master’s degree in carbon ecology and management immerses you in the science of carbon dynamics, enabling you to understand how carbon affects ecosystems, economies, and climate systems. By mastering techniques like GIS, remote sensing, and data analysis, you’ll be prepared to tackle real-world challenges such as carbon emissions reduction and climate change mitigation. As a leader in sustainable degrees, Unity graduates are well-positioned for careers in environmental consulting, natural resource management, climate policy, and conservation. Whether you want to work in environmental policy, corporate sustainability, or research, this degree opens doors to influential roles in the carbon management sector.

Next Start Date
June 2, 2025
Program Details
Online Learning
1 – 1.5 Years
Master's
CAREER OUTLOOK

What Can I Do With a Master’s in Carbon Ecology and Management?

81 K
Environmental Scientists and Specialists jobs in the U.S., 2023*

$ 76 K
Environmental Scientists and Specialists average pay, 2023*

+ 8 %
Estimated U.S. job growth for Environmental Scientists and Specialists jobs through 2033*

*Source: O*Net/U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Unity Environmental University cannot guarantee employment. Salary data represents averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience.

In the MS in Carbon Ecology and Management Program You’ll Learn To:

  • Analyze how carbon dynamics interact with ecological systems and human activities, and assess their impacts on climate change and ecosystem function
  • Use remote sensing tools to map and assess carbon dynamics, informing land management and carbon strategies
  • Integrate knowledge from ecology and biogeochemistry to create effective strategies for managing carbon and mitigating climate change in various ecosystems
  • Create and implement management plans using advanced carbon science principles and technology to address real-world carbon challenges
  • Critically evaluate the effectiveness, equity, and outcomes of carbon management policies for emissions reduction and climate resilience
A professional gardener on the job.
What You Will Study

Carbon Ecology and Management
Course Examples

Sustainable Land Use Planning and Carbon Management

You’ll be integrating carbon management into sustainable land use planning. You will explore ecosystem services, land tenure, and decision-making with a focus on cutting carbon emissions and boosting sequestration. Using case studies, simulations, and spatial analysis, students develop skills in stakeholder engagement and policy development to advance sustainable land management, mitigating climate change impacts.

forestry-technician-marking-tree-trunk-for-cutting-2023-11-27-05-19-10-utc-scaled

Remote Sensing of Carbon Dynamics

This course explores cutting-edge technologies, introducing students to remote sensing for monitoring carbon dynamics globally. You will interpret satellite imagery to map carbon stocks, fluxes, and land cover changes. Practical exercises develop proficiency in using remote sensing tools to assess ecosystem carbon balance, detect land use changes, and inform carbon management strategies.

amazing-blue-lake-and-green-forest-in-summer-flyi-2023-11-27-04-56-40-utc-scaled

Carbon Cycling and Climate Change

This course takes you into the complex dynamics of carbon cycling in ecosystems and its climate change implications. You will explore processes shaping carbon fluxes, from photosynthesis to decomposition, and assess human activities’ impact on carbon balances. Through case studies, simulations, and analysis, students develop strategies to mitigate carbon emissions in the face of climate change.

mangrove-trees-along-the-sea-2023-11-27-05-31-35-utc-scaled
FAQ

Learn More About Degrees and Careers in Carbon Ecology and Managements

 

 

Carbon ecology and management is the study and practice of understanding, monitoring, and effectively managing carbon dynamics within ecosystems to mitigate climate change and promote environmental sustainability. This field prepares professionals to develop strategies to enhance carbon sequestration, advocate for sustainable land use, influence policies, and leverage nature-based solutions.

The MS in Carbon Ecology and Management program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of carbon dynamics in ecosystems, emphasizing the integration of ecological principles with advanced carbon management techniques. Through a multidisciplinary curriculum and practical exercises, students learn to analyze spatial data sets and apply data analysis tools such as GIS and remote sensing to assess carbon stocks and fluxes.

With a focus on real-world applications and experiential learning, graduates are equipped to address pressing challenges in carbon emissions, climate change, and sustainable development across various sectors, positioning them for impactful careers in environmental consulting, natural resource management, climate policy, and conservation.

Your online education should be affordable and manageable. Thanks to our promise to keep tuition flat through 2030, you won’t be burdened with unexpected increases or fees.

Our team of distance education concierges will work with you through the admissions process to help you plan and pay for your degree. Learn more about the costs here.

The timeframe for completion is up to you! Enroll in 6 credits per term and complete the program within just one year. Alternatively, opt for part-time study by taking one course at a time. Whichever path you choose, we’re here to support your educational journey every step of the way. Contact your concierge or advisor to create your personalized plan.

Research Core: 15 credits

  • RSCH 510 Research Fundamentals
  • MATH 510 Tools and Technologies for Data Analysis
  • MATH 525 Quantitative Research Design and Statistics
  • GISC 505 GIS & Remote Sensing for Environmental Solutions
  • RSCH 610 Research Communication

Major Program Core: 15 credits

  • ESCI 505 Carbon Cycling and Climate Change
  • ESCI 507 Biogeochemistry
  • GISC 620 Remote Sensing of Carbon Dynamics
  • SNRM 620 Sustainable Land Use Planning and Carbon Management
  • SUST 640 Policy and Governance for Carbon Management

For a better look into your program, view our full course catalog. Then apply online for free to get started.

The MS degree is a traditional graduate program focused on deepening scientific understanding through research and academic study. Students typically specialize in a particular field of science and learn the research skills related to their discipline.

The MS program is centered around developing a strong foundation in research and scientific inquiry:

  • Research Methodology: Students learn how to design and conduct experiments, collect and analyze data, and interpret results within the context of their scientific discipline.
  • Critical Thinking: The program emphasizes the ability to think analytically and critically about scientific problems, forming the basis for sound research and decision-making.
  • Technical Expertise: Depending on the field of study, students may acquire advanced technical skills in areas such as data collection techniques, fieldwork, GIS mapping, computational modeling, or statistical analysis.
  • Academic Writing: The ability to write clearly and effectively is honed, particularly through the process of producing a thesis or research papers suitable for publication.
Master’s in Carbon Ecology and Management Academic Information

Degree Requirements and Courses Needed

The carbon ecology and management degree requires 30 credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA. View our full course catalog for a better look into your program. Then apply online for free to get started.

Realizing Your Potential. Protecting Your Planet.

Why Unity Distance Education?

icon diploma

High Educational Value

Nationally recognized educational quality at an affordable price.

icon document

Sustainability Core

Committed to sustainable practices to prepare for a future of environmental awareness.

icon quiz

Personalized Guidance

Dedicated to turning career and academic aspirations into tangible achievements.

icon graduation cap

Accelerated Path

Fast-track your Master’s degree and finish your program in as little as one year.

 

icon idea

Inspiring Faculty

Connect with experts who share your passion for working in the industry.

icon calendar

Multiple Start Dates

With up to 5 terms a year, you can take a break without jeopardizing financial aid.

icon videocall

Learning Flexibility

Balance life, work, and education by studying when and where you want

Real Students, Real Impact

Nick Burnett Wildland Firefighting

Real Students, Real Impact

“This journey with Unity has been transformative…”

Nicholas B.

Masters Degree in Wildlife Ecology and Management
Read Full Testimonial

Learn from Leaders

Erik-Larson.jpg

Learn from Leaders

PhD in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences

Erik Larson

Global Expert in Geology
More Info
Heather-Stricker.jpg
Learn from Leaders

M.S. in Conservation Biology, B.S. Wildlife Ecology

Heather Stricker

Global Expert in Climate Change Solutions, GIS, and the Intersection of Human and Natural Systems.
More Info
Emanuel-Storey.jpg
Learn from Leaders

PhD, M.S. in Remote Sensing

Emanuel Storey

Global Expert in Wildland Fire Ecology
More Info

More Stories

Erik Larson
Global Expert in Geology
Heather Stricker
Global Expert in Climate Change Solutions, GIS, and the Intersection of Human and Natural Systems.
Emanuel Storey
Global Expert in Wildland Fire Ecology

Earn Your Degree With America’s Environmental University!

Connect with Unity Distance Education and start your online learning journey. Speak with Una the AI guide or call us at 207-509-7100, and apply today!

Apply Now