Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience
Master of Professional Science
Be a steward of change and shape
communities, organizations, and your career.
Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience is designed to empower you with the skills and knowledge necessary to tackle one of the world's most pressing issues—climate change. Through an interdisciplinary approach, this program equips you with expertise in climate science, impacts, and strategies for adaptation, preparing you to drive real-world change. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for leadership roles in government, NGOs, research institutions, and private companies, guiding organizations and communities towards sustainability and resilience in the face of climate change.
In the MPS in Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience program you'll learn to:
- Understand climate variability and the processes driving climate change
- Develop adaptation and resilience plans based on the best available climate adaptation and resilience data
- Apply critical thinking to assess and reduce vulnerabilities to climate impacts on individuals and systems
- Use systems thinking to address complex climate change challenges
- Prioritize inclusive planning and climate justice in existing climate solutions
- Evaluate decision-making theories in organizations and political systems, focusing on underserved communities
Career Outlook
What can I do with a master's in climate change?
Careers for Climate Change Adapation and Resilience graduates.
Climate Change Policy Analysts jobs in the U.S., 2023.
Climate Change Policy Analysts pay, 2023.
Estimated U.S. job growth for Climate Change Policy Analysts through 2033.
Climate Change Policy Analysts jobs in the U.S., 2023.
Climate Change Policy Analysts pay, 2023.
Estimated U.S. job growth for Climate Change Policy Analysts 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.
Examples of online coursework in climate change adaptation and resilience:
Decision-Making and Sustainability
You will apply principles of behavioral economics to identify and address sustainability problems faced by companies. Explain how cognitive, emotional, cultural, and social factors impact human decision-making.
Climate Change, Energy, and Community Needs
You will assess climate-related hazards, impacts, risks, and vulnerability, drawing on climate science, and produce effective communication for a community through a project that evaluates traditional and sustainable power plants. Consider the climate impacts from construction to decommissioning and communicate your assessment to the community with a climate change primer and context for future discussions related to climate change.
Systems Thinking Research
You will dive into systems thinking by devising a research question based on a problem and gathering information to create a model. The problem and question will require systems analysis, be data-driven, and be supported by existing research.
Degree requirements and courses needed to earn a sustainable master's
The Master’s in Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience requires 30 credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA. For a more comprehensive look into the program, view our full course catalog.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is climate change adaptation and resilience?
Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience is about preparing for and dealing with the effects of climate change. It's like equipping yourself with tools to handle challenges caused by things like extreme weather or rising sea levels. In our program, you'll learn how to assess these impacts and come up with smart strategies to lessen their effects. It's not just about understanding the problem; it's about actively finding solutions that help communities and the environment. Plus, it opens up exciting career opportunities where you can make a real difference in tackling climate change.
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What is a Master of Professional Science in Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience?
The Master of Professional Science in Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience degree equips students with the knowledge and skills to tackle the challenges posed by climate change. With a focus on developing professional skills, the transdisciplinary program draws on various fields, including environmental science, sociology, economics, and psychology to provide foundational knowledge on climate vulnerability, risk, decision-making, and climate action. Students in the program learn to assess the impacts of climate change on individuals, ecosystems, economies, and societies and develop strategies to mitigate these impacts.
Students will learn how to work with diverse communities, including historically underserved, to ensure they are included in the planning and implementation of climate change adaptation strategies that safeguard and sustain natural resources. Graduates of the Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience program will be prepared for careers related to climate change adaptation and resilience in government agencies, non-profit organizations, research institutions, and private sector companies.
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What is the difference in an MPS and an MS?
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.
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What courses will I take to earn a Master's of Professional Science in Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience?
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 Behavior 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 a better look into your program, view our full course catalog. Then apply online for free to get started.
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How much does it cost to receive an MPS in 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. -
How fast can I finish my online degree in Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience?
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.
Why Unity for your climate-ready master's degree
Career Focus – Unity ranks in the top 2% of colleges for social mobility according to CollegeNET. Demand for employees with green skills is growing daily, and the sustainability core in every master’s program at Unity means that you’ll graduate with an environmental consciousness applicable to every career path.
Earn While You Learn – Our asynchronous model is designed to provide flexibility, allowing you to balance your studies with professional and personal commitments.
World Renowned Faculty – Learn from faculty who are working in their field, bringing their professional network and real-world insights into the virtual classroom, fostering valuable connections for your future career.
Applied Learning – You’ll be required to engage your local community and environment while completing your master’s degree, giving you practical, hands-on experience while allowing you to translate theoretical knowledge into real-world solutions.
Personalized Support – You can rely on one-on-one professional advising, career support from your first day, unlimited mental health counseling, and more.
Experts in the field of climate change adaptation and resilience
At Unity Environmental University, our Faculty is composed of a wide range of environmental science experts who in addition to teaching, conduct their own research and various fieldwork.
Maria Dozier
Subject Matter Expert
Ignite your passion for climate action with Maria Dozier—an unstoppable force for change and lifelong advocate for climate adaptation and justice! As the Training Specialist at the American Society of Adaptation Professionals (ASAP), Maria pioneers transformative education and coalition building. Her mission? To drive social change and empower the next wave of climate leaders.
With a B.S. in Sustainability and the Built Environment from the University of Florida and an M.S. from the University of Michigan, Maria's academic arsenal is power-packed. Ready to dive into the frontline of environmental justice and policy? Connect with Maria at mdozier@adaptpros.org and be the change the world needs!
Faculty Profiles
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Ready to learn more about the MPS in Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience
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