Online Master of Public Administration (MPA) Programs with a Specialization in Environmental Policy and Management

With climate and environmental concerns growing more pressing every day, so does the need for science- and business-minded individuals who are ready to tackle the intersection of environmental concerns and government regulations. Professionals working in environmental management can find employment in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private businesses, and they can be tasked to address a wide range of complex environmental problems, from managing water, energy, and other natural resources to creating sustainability in any business that relies on the environment. Additional examples of situations professionals in the field may encounter while on the job include: working to ensure air and water protection near industrial sites, designing green space areas in urban environments, serving on national environmental regulation agencies, and working on national policies to better meet global environmental concerns.

Master of Public Administration (MPA) programs with a Specialization in Environmental Policy and Management combine an understanding of environmental science with knowledge and skills in public administration. Within the Environmental MPA specialization, students can also focus on a variety of sub-disciplines, including conservation, compliance, planning, environmental policy, and sustainability management. Graduates of MPA programs in Environmental Management can be uniquely prepared to develop programs and policies designed to confront today’s most challenging environmental issues.

Curriculum Details for Online MPA Programs with a Specialization in Environmental Management

The curriculum for a Master of Public Administration program with a specialization in Environmental Management includes both general public administration courses, which may be referred to as core courses, and specialization specific courses in environmental management. Core courses in an MPA program are often similar regardless of the program’s specialization and include topics such as public service leadership, public financial management, human resource management, research methods, program development and evaluation, and grant writing. Specialization courses then cover topics that may include past and present regulations governing environmental policies, the economic factors affecting policy and industry compliance, issues pertaining to environmental justice and social equity, and current challenges in environmental management (e.g., global climate change, natural resource management, and pollution).

Students interested in an online MPA program in Environmental Management should explore the following specialization options:

• Environmental Management
• Environmental Policy
• Environmental Justice

Most MPA programs require between 36 and 48 credits, which can be completed in two to three years of study. Students who attend full-time often graduate in two years, although it may be possible to complete their degree in less time if they take an accelerated course load. Students studying part-time can earn their degree in two to three years. While the difference between full-time and part-time enrollment varies by institution, full-time enrollment typically involves taking six to nine credits per traditional 15-week semester (i.e., two to three classes), while part-time enrollment often involves taking one, maybe two courses per term.

Most MPA programs conclude with a capstone project that allows students to gain in-depth, hands-on experience working on a project in environmental management. Students may work individually or in groups depending on the program and often receive guidance from a faculty mentor or team of faculty members. For students who do not have professional experience in public administration, many programs require those students to complete an internship as part of their curriculum.

Note: To be included in our comprehensive directory of online MPA programs in Environmental Management, a school must offer a dedicated specialization in Environmental Management, Environmental Policy, or a related field.

Examples of Environmental Management Courses in Online MPA Programs

Students pursuing an MPA in Environmental Management take courses specifically designed to prepare them for the global environmental challenges facing today’s policy makers and advocates. In addition to the foundational MPA coursework students will enroll in courses focusing on managing environmental programs and the societal implications of environmental regulations and policies. The course titles and descriptions below should be viewed as examples only, as the offered concentration courses vary by school and by program.

• Environmental Ethics: This course tackles the moral obligations of protecting the environment, as well as protecting populations of people, animals and plants that otherwise lack visibility and a voice. Students read the theories that have shaped past ethical arguments regarding environmental protection, as well as discuss new ideas regarding the moral duties surrounding the planet.
• Environmental Policy, Regulation and Law: This course provides students with a working knowledge of current and past major regulations governing environmental policies and regulations. Much of the course focuses on case studies that have shaped current environmental laws and policies.
• Environmental Economics: This course examines the public and private costs involved in wide-scale environmental regulation, as well as the interplay between industrialization and national and international policy.
• Environmental Management: This course examines the efficacy of management tools used to solve complex environmental issues, taking into account economic concerns, such as private stakeholders. Students are challenged to develop creative solutions to problems while learning management skills and how to negotiate and adapt, as well as navigate controversies.
• Global Environmental Change: This course examines the causes of global environmental change and analyzes their current and potential impacts on communities and the development of environmental policies. Focus is placed on examining current regulations and their efficacy, critical decision-making, and the implications of environmental change on those in managerial roles in the field.
• Environmental Finance: This course focuses on how environmental services are funded by governments, NGOs, non-profits, and businesses. Students will study the strategies and learn about the tools used to pay for key programs and services related to drinking water, wastewater, energy, and more.

The typical curriculum for an MPA program with a specialization in Environmental Management focuses first on core courses, followed by specialization courses and electives (if applicable). As noted above, most MPA programs conclude with a capstone course and project. Below is a sample two-year course of study for a full-time online MPA program with a specialization in Environmental Management. Many universities require similar core MPA courses, but offer great variability in specialization courses; therefore, the following curriculum should be used for example purposes only.

Two-Year Sample Curriculum Plan for an Online Master of Public Administration with a Specialization in Environmental Management

Instruction Methods for Online MPA Programs

Online education provides students with greater access to degree programs offered by accredited colleges and universities, and online programs are especially well suited for students who do not already live near a school that offers graduate programs in public administration. For students who do live within commuting distance to a campus-based MPA program, online programs provide additional flexibility as they do not require students to commute to campus for traditional classes and they also provide greater access to additional specialization options that might not be offered by a local MPA program.

Online instruction usually takes one of two forms: it is either synchronous or asynchronous. Attending lectures live in real-time using video conferencing software is referred to as synchronous instruction, whereas watching recorded lectures and studying course materials when it best fits a student’s schedule is known as asynchronous instruction. Students should note that not every online MPA program uses synchronous instruction, but all online programs include asynchronous course components.

Students who prefer an online program where they can see their instructors and classmates live on a weekly basis (typically in the early morning or evening so students from across time zones can attend) and/or students who prefer to be able to ask questions in real-time, should seek out programs that offer synchronous instruction. Students that are working full-time or have other obligations that make it difficult for them to attend regularly scheduled online sessions, may prefer asynchronous instruction as it allows for greater flexibility to complete coursework at times that are best for them. (Note: With asynchronous instruction, students are still required to keep up with course materials, routinely participate in online discussion forums, and submit assignments by set due dates.)

Online MPA programs are designed to provide students with a full college experience. This includes using learning management systems in which students can participate in online classroom discussions, attend live office hours, and network and communicate with fellow students and faculty. Students also typically have access to a school’s student services, which can include libraries and librarians for research, writing centers, and career services.

Given that many students attending online programs are also working professionals with personal and professional commitments, these programs are best suited for students who are independent learners and those that excel at time management skills.

Admissions Requirements for MPA Programs with a Specialization in Environmental Management

Eligibility for an MPA program requires applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. MPA programs with a specialization in Environmental Management may prefer applicants with an undergraduate degree or significant professional experience in environmental sciences or a related scientific field. Additional academic prerequisites may also be required for students without certain undergraduate coursework.

As the graduate admissions process is typically more personal than completing an undergraduate application, many schools have dedicated admissions teams with program directors available to answer applicants’ questions. Schools often suggest that potential applicants reach out prior to beginning their application to ensure that the applicant and the program are respectively a good fit.

Following the completion of an online application, students will be asked to submit official transcripts from any colleges attended, including transcripts for any graduate coursework a student has completed. While GPA requirements vary by university, many schools look for a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. In addition to GPA, additional requirements may include an up-to-date resume or curriculum vitae (CV), personal statement, letters of recommendation, and in some cases a virtual interview conducted live or via filmed responses to pre-outlined questions. Certain programs will also request standardized test scores. For graduate programs this refers to the GRE or GMAT. Application fees will vary by institution, and many programs now waive the fee for graduate programs.

Note: Whether campus- or online-based, applicants should recognize that many MPA programs have selective admissions policies. This means that acceptance is not guaranteed even if an applicant meets the minimum requirements for admission.

Accreditation for Online MPA Programs

Before applying for an MPA program, students should first check that the school has received regional accreditation from one of the six regional accrediting bodies recognized by the Council for Higher Education (CHEA) or the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), which is also recognized by CHEA. (Note: Only schools that have been accredited by a CHEA-recognized commission are included on OnlineMPAPrograms.com).

The Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) is recognized by CHEA as the accreditor of MPA programs. However, this accreditation is optional, and not all MPA programs choose to seek accreditation. NASPAA accreditation indicates that the program adheres to NASPAA’s mission and academic standards, which can be an additional factor to considering when researching programs. Some MPA programs may choose to align their curriculum with the NASPAA standards but not seek full accreditation.

After reviewing accreditation, students should consider program faculty, specialization options, admissions requirements, length of the program, tuition costs, and research opportunities before deciding which program best matches their needs and interests.

Environmental Management Organizations and Networking Opportunities

Students and graduates of an online MPA program with an Environmental Management specialization can gain meaningful connections and networking opportunities through professional organizations relevant to their field of study. Many organizations also offer publications, and educational opportunities in the form of workshops, seminars and webinars, and annual conferences so that professionals can stay current with recent developments in environmental management.

Environmental Protection Network (EPN) – This national collaborative is composed of more than 550 current and former EPA members coming together to share expertise. The mission of the EPN is to support progress toward protecting the country’s air, water and land.

Climate Action Network (CAN) – Bringing together more than 1,900 organizations in more than 130 countries, this global network takes action at both the local level and globally at climate-centered events. Action is spread among many projects, from ending fossil fuels to centering narratives on individuals most impacted by climate change.

American Water Resources Association (AWRA) – This national organization connects graduate students and professionals involved in water resources management. The association offers webinars, conferences and several publications, including Water Resources IMPACT.

Thriving Earth Exchange – This global network connects communities with scientists and other professionals qualified to tackle their submitted projects. Past projects have focused on varied needs, from polluted water to food scarcity.

The Marine Protected Area (MPA) Collaborative Network (CN) – This California umbrella organization brings together 14 coastal volunteer organizations, all working to protect and preserve their local marine environments. Membership is open to a diverse range of professionals, including academics, scientists, nonprofit organizations, and various levels of government agencies.

Comprehensive Directory of Online MPA Programs with a Specialization in Environmental Policy and Management