Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience
Master of Professional Science

Climate change adaptation and resiliency refer to the strategies and actions taken to reduce vulnerability to climate impacts while enhancing the capacity of human and natural systems to recover and thrive amid ongoing environmental changes. Adaptation involves proactive steps such as updating infrastructure, shifting agricultural practices, or implementing early warning systems, while resiliency emphasizes the ability to absorb shocks, maintain core functions, and evolve in response to stressors like rising sea levels or extreme weather.

Together, they form a foundation for sustainable development and climate justice, particularly for communities most affected by climate disruptions

What does an MPS in Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience prepare you for?

This graduate degree prepares you to lead climate action across sectors. You’ll draw on environmental science, sociology, economics, and psychology to assess climate vulnerability and risk, learning to develop inclusive adaptation strategies that safeguard communities, ecosystems, and natural resources. Graduates go on to careers in government agencies, nonprofits, research institutions, and private companies working on climate change adaptation and resilience.

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.

Professional Masters Core: 15 credits

• PROF 505 Strategic Management of Innovation
• PROF 510 Communication for Environmental Professionals
• PROF 515 Ethical Practice and Policy
• PROF 590 Capstone I
• PROF 690 Capstone II

Major Program Core: 15 credits

• PSYC 505 Behavioral Economics: Understanding What Shapes Decision-Making
• SUST 505 Thinking in Systems
• SUST 510 Climate Dynamics
• SUST 530 Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation
• SUST 605 Climate Change Equity and Engagement

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

The Master of Professional Science (MPS) is a graduate degree designed to combine scientific knowledge with practical skills relevant to the workforce. Unlike traditional science degrees, the MPS emphasizes hands-on experience and professional development, preparing students for careers that require both expertise in science and the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world contexts. MPS programs focus on a range of skills that are directly applicable to the workplace:

• Project Management: Students learn to plan, execute, and manage projects, often in scientific or environmental settings.
• Communication: Emphasis is placed on effectively communicating complex scientific ideas to diverse audiences, including policymakers, stakeholders, and the general public.
• Policy Analysis: Students gain the ability to understand and analyze policies related to their field, making them valuable assets in governmental and organizational decision-making processes.
• Technical Proficiency: Students develop a range of specialized skills and techniques relevant to their discipline, such as animal training, conservation advocacy, environmental monitoring, or other tools essential to their field.

The MS degree is a traditional graduate program focused on deepening scientific understanding through research and academic study.