COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Political Science with a specialization in Environmental Politics and Policy at Colorado State University is a graduate program designed to prepare students to analyze and engage with environmental issues through political and policy frameworks. The program can be completed through either a thesis or non-thesis option, allowing students to tailor their academic experience based on whether they prefer research-focused or professionally oriented pathways.Students in this specialization study how environmental policies are created, implemented, and evaluated at local, national, and international levels. The curriculum emphasizes political institutions, governance systems, policy analysis, and the role of public and private actors in addressing environmental challenges such as climate change, natural resource management, conservation, and sustainability. By integrating political science theory with environmental issues, students gain a strong understanding of how decisions affecting the environment are made and how they can be influenced.The program also benefits from the university’s broad range of environmental resources, reflecting its status as a land-grant institution. Students are encouraged to engage with interdisciplinary opportunities that enhance their understanding of environmental systems and policy solutions.Prospective students can also explore an Accelerated Master’s Program option, which allows eligible students to complete their degree in less time and at reduced cost. In addition, detailed information about coursework, credit requirements, and academic expectations is available through the department and the university’s general catalog.Students may qualify for Graduate Teaching Assistant, Graduate Research Assistant, or Graduate Service Assistant positions, which provide valuable academic and professional experience. Overall, the program prepares graduates for careers in government, nonprofit organizations, private sector roles, and doctoral study in environmental politics and policy.