As a student in the MS in Sustainability program, you'll develop the knowledge and skills essential to create and support socio-ecological systems that address the needs of the present while ensuring that future generations can flourish.

Our MS in Sustainability can be completed on a full-time basis in 12-18 months, although students may also complete the program part-time. With its flexible, interdisciplinary structure, the program gives students the opportunity to connect sustainability studies to their interests in other fields.

Program Outcomes

The program emphasizes equitable sustainability solutions and problem solving, allowing you to enhance and apply your knowledge of natural and built systems to support just and sustainable outcomes for communities around the world.

As communities and organizations of all sizes and types recognize the importance of prioritizing sustainability initiatives, the demand for a workforce with graduate level training in the field continues to increase. Graduates of the MS in Sustainability are leaders who work in the area of sustainability within a variety of fields and industries, with a focus on just and equitable solutions.

Application Requirements

Application fee
Resume/CV
Personal statement
- In 3-4 double-spaced pages or up to 1000 words, please explain your motivations and purpose for applying to study in UEP. Please include the following:
  - What previous experiences have brought you to the decision to apply for graduate study?
  - What are your motivations to apply at this time and what do you hope to do after graduate study at UEP?
  - What specifically about UEP (faculty, curriculum, courses, location, mission, etc) will support your growth from your current set of experiences to your next steps?
Official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test, if applicable
Transcripts
Three letters of recommendation

Tuition & Fees

GSAS bills tuition using a per-credit billing model, meaning you are billed for the number of credits you take each semester. This billing model is used to provide students better flexibility so they may "pay-as-they-go".

Tuition*	$1,594
Total Credits Required	36
Enrollment Status	Part-Time: 3-6 credits (typically 1-2 courses) Full-Time: 9+ credits (typically 3 or more courses)

Estimating Tuition Costs for this Program

This example pathway outlines estimated tuition costs per semester using a typical full-time course load. This is one possible pathway to completion; actual credits, costs, enrollment status, and degree completion time may vary based on a student’s course load.

Full-Time Pathway	Fall	Spring	Total
Year 1	9 credits	9 credits	18 credits
Year 1	$14,346	$14,346	$28,692
Year 2	9 credits	9 credits	18 credits
Year 2	$14,346	$14,346	$28,692
Estimated Total Tuition Before Aid*			$57,384*

Note: this example does not account for any scholarships that may be awarded at the time of admission. GSAS offers generous merit- and need-based tuition scholarships for qualified applicants. A list of funding opportunities is provided below.

*Estimated based on 2025-2026 tuition rates. Rates are subject to change each academic year. For further information about the full cost of attendance, including health insurance, fees, and estimated indirect costs (housing, transportation, etc.), visit Student Financial Services.

Financial Aid & Funding Opportunities

At Tufts University, we believe that every qualified applicant should have the opportunity to pursue graduate study, regardless of financial circumstances. We are committed to helping you navigate the financial aspects of your education and strive to make graduate school accessible through a variety of support options.

Scholarships and Awards Available for this Program

Merit- and need-based tuition scholarships for master’s programs: To be considered, be sure to indicate your interest within the Financial Aid section of your application.
The Future Leaders Fellowship is a full-tuition scholarship for outstanding full-time master’s students and entry-level OTD students. Future Leaders Fellows are selected by the GSAS Dean following their admittance to Tufts.
The Alvin Levin Fellowship supports a prospective student with financial need in pursuing a graduate degree in the Department of Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning at Tufts University each year. The fellowship’s objectives reflect Alvin Levin’s long‐term commitment to community organizing and grassroots politics combined with his strong interest in a sustainable environment on a global level.
Fifth Year Master's Degree Program current Tufts Undergraduates can enroll in this program which has reduced tuition costs and provides a Financial Aid Match with a graduate tuition scholarship proportional to the undergraduate tuition award at the time of application.
City Year Corps members, alumni, and staff are eligible to receive a minimum scholarship award of 25% off tuition.
Work Opportunities and Awards
There are various graduate assistantships and work opportunities available for Master’s students across Tufts. In addition, the Department of Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning offers various opportunities, including research positions and learning assistantships.
The Graduate Student Open Access Publishing Fund provides financial support to students who want to publish their work open access.
The Graduate Student Research Competition provides funding for expenses including equipment, materials, and supplies; research participant compensation; and expenses of travel to conduct research.
The Graduate Student Conference Reimbursement Fund is available for students to travel to present or attend at a conference or professional meeting.