Coronavirus Update: USD will begin its fall semester Aug. 19 and conclude classroom instruction by Thanksgiving for most of its academic programs. The university is committed to on-campus operations this fall. USD will continue remote delivery through the summer academic term (May 18-Aug. 7). All USD-hosted events and visitor activities are canceled through July 31. USD plans to host graduation ceremonies on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2020, at the Sanford Coyote Sports Center. More Updates about USD's Pandemic Planning
Graduate Sustainability
A Lasting Education
Join our commitment to preserve the health of both human society and the environment.
Studying sustainability will prepare students to pursue careers in the private sector or government. Career areas include sustainable practices, natural resource management, renewable energy, community planning, non-governmental organizations and education.
Sustainability is an emerging field that seeks to address many of society's complex and interdisciplinary issues. We emphasize experiential learning where we find solutions to real-world environmental, social and economic problems.
The concept of sustainability encompasses a wide range of topics and endeavors, including ecosystems, energy, natural resources, economic development, population, food security, industry and conflict resolution.
Degrees
Master of Science (M.S.)
The Master of Science in Sustainability – thesis and non-thesis option – is ideal for students studying social and/or environmental aspects of sustainability.
Accelerated Master of Science (M.S.)
The Accelerated M.S. degree is intended for current USD undergraduate students who would like to begin earning their master’s degree while completing their undergraduate degree. Students in the Accelerated M.S. program should apply in the spring semester of their junior year and would typically begin taking graduate-level courses the following fall. Students in the Accelerated M.S. program can apply up to 12 graduate credits toward their undergraduate degree.
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
The Doctor of Philosophy in Sustainability – dissertation only – is available for students seeking the highest degree in sustainability.
Pending SDBOR Approval – Master of Science / Juris Doctor (M.S./J.D.)
The M.S./J.D. – non-thesis only – is available to candidates who are concurrently enrolled in the School of Law. Students complete the first year of the J.D. before beginning the M.S. in Sustainability.
Admission Requirements
For more detailed admission requirements, please refer to Sustainability in the current graduate catalog. Additional requirements exist for international applicants. For more information, visit International Admission Requirements.
Application Deadline
Priority admission deadline: Feb. 1.
The Classroom & Beyond
Graduate Assistantships Available for Fall 2019
Several assistantships are available for students admitted to sustainability graduate program (M.S. or Ph.D.) for the fall of 2019. Teaching and recycling assistantships available. Apply by the priority admission deadline of Feb. 1 for consideration.
We work to increase sustainability awareness and initiatives within the University of South Dakota and it's community.
Morgan Appley wants to change the world, and she said she is going to do it one backyard at a time.