Master’s program

Interdisciplinary Master of Science (MSc) in Environmental Sustainability

During your studies with the Institute of the Environment, you will discover key principles of sustainability in environmental science, economics, law and public policy. You will then create methodologies to integrate and apply this diverse knowledge to address some of the greatest multidimensional environmental challenges and opportunities of our time.


You have the choice of two MSc options: the MSc with research paper and the MSc with thesis. 

  • The MSc with research paper (31.5 units) can be completed in 12 months of full-time studies. If you wish, you can enroll full time for one additional term as necessary to meet the program requirements. 

  • The MSc with thesis (19.5 units) can be completed in 24 months of full-time studies.

* Currently, compulsory program courses are only offered in English. 
** If you have excellent academic standing and broad professional expertise in environmental studies, economics, law or public policy, you could be admitted to the part-time program.

You can choose the  CO-OP option which will enable you to gain relevant work experience by completing two paid work term placements and grow your network. You can also work with the Smart Prosperity Institute, a national research network and think tank that’s part of the University of Ottawa’s Institute of the Environment. The Smart Prosperity Institute produces world-class research and partners with the private and public sectors to promote the adoption of sounder, greener practices in the areas of public policy and the economy. 

General information and program requirements - Interdisciplinary MSc in Environmental Sustainability 

PhD program

Doctorate (PhD) in Environmental Sustainability

This interdisciplinary program is centered on educating new leaders and professionals to develop, analyze and evaluate how public policies and institutions address the challenges of the transition to sustainability. You will study environmental problems from the perspective of various disciplines: science, law, economics and public policy, which will deepen your understanding of environmental issues and heighten your critical awareness of the broad range of contributing factors. You will also learn to sharpen your methodology and communicate your findings and solutions effectively.

You can also work with the Smart Prosperity Institute, a national research network and think tank that’s part of the University of Ottawa’s Institute of the Environment. The Smart Prosperity Institute produces world-class studies and partners with the private and public sectors to promote adoption of sounder, greener practices in the areas of public policy and the economy.

This program is offered in English and in French.

General information and program requirements - PhD in Environmental Studies

graduate students working on a solution on a glass board

Graduate programs at the Faculty of Social Sciences

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Contact us

Graduate School of Public and International Affairs

Faculty of Social Sciences
Social Sciences Building
120 University Private, Room 6005
Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5
Canada (map)

Tel.: 613-562-5689

[email protected]

Office Hours
Monday to Friday 8:45 a.m. to 12 p.m. & 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
(June to August: closed at 3:30 p.m.)

Supervisor of Graduate Studies in Public and International Affairs

Nicholas Rivers
Social Sciences Building
Room 6023 
Phone : 613-562-5800 ext. 4676
[email protected]