University of Denver, Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs
Master of Arts in Global Environmental Sustainability
Denver, USA
Master degree
DURATION
2 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time, Part time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
16 Jan 2026
EARLIEST START DATE
Jan 2026
TUITION FEES
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
Ranked 12th in the world for earning a master’s degree in international relations, Korbel’s MA in Global Environmental Sustainability offers an interdisciplinary approach to addressing urgent global challenges. You'll explore economic, political, and sociological perspectives, while our location in Colorado places you at the heart of practical discussions involving the role of government, the private sector, and civil society.
Whether you’re aiming to make policy on scales from local to global, drive corporate social responsibility, or lead advocacy organizations, you’ll be equipped to promote just and equitable sustainability initiatives.
Shape your experience
Arrive with a plan, or let your curiosity guide you. Our flexible programs give you the freedom to explore new fields, change directions as your interests evolve, or hone in on a specialized track.
Build a strong foundation
Start with 16 credits of required coursework, designed to ground you in your discipline.
Core courses
- INTS 4397 –Environment and Economy
- INTS 4972 – Global Environmental Governance
- One of the following:
- INTS 4### – Sustainability of Socio-Ecological Systems
- INTS 4642 – Environmental Security
Tailor your degree
Use your 44 elective credits to add specializations, pursue certificates, or take courses abroad based on your interests and goals.
Certificates
- Global Health Affairs
- Global Justice
- Homeland Security
- Humanitarian Assistance
- Public Diplomacy
- Public Policy
- Religion & International Affairs
- Strategic Intelligence
Find out more about curriculum!
The Korbel School, a proud member of the APSIA group, is ranked #12 in the world for International Relations master’s programs by Foreign Policy Magazine as of 2024!
Korbel is also proud to be recognized as an R1 institution, a prestigious designation reserved for top-tier research universities in the U.S. This classification highlights our commitment to cutting-edge research, innovation, and academic excellence, offering students opportunities to engage in groundbreaking work across a variety of fields.
Build a lifelong network
Korbel brings together bright minds with big visions for the future. Connect, collaborate, and grow with a diverse community dedicated to the common good.
Engage with leaders shaping our world
Recent speakers include mayors and governors, former secretaries of state, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, prominent journalists, leaders in corporate social responsibility and impact investing, human rights activists, and feminist peace scholars.
Thrive in a dynamic student community
You’ll make friends for a lifetime with peers who bring an incredible range of experiences to the table. Join one of our many student-led groups to collaborate with people from around the world who share your passion for making a difference.
Be part of an active alumni network
Our 7,000+ alumni span the globe and are passionate about opening doors for Korbel graduates. You’ll find them in government roles at all levels, international organizations, NGOs, consulting firms, startups, and major corporations.
90% of Korbel graduate students receive merit aid
Students are eligible for need based aid
Prepare to go far
93% of Korbel graduates are employed, continuing their education, or volunteering/engaging in service within 12 months of graduation.
Source: https://career.du.edu/resources/employment-data-2020-2022/
Global Environmental Sustainability
graduates are in demand
You’ll find them working in government, think tanks and do tanks, national and international development, and relief organizations. They become sustainability specialists and analysts, legislative policy aides, program analysts, and compliance specialists.
Where recent alumni make an impact
- B Corp
- Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment
- Colorado State Senate
- US Department of Energy
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Student Quote + Image
Get outside the classroom
Hands-on experience is essential to your success. You’ll find an abundance of opportunities to develop your professional skills and explore career paths.
Apply your knowledge with internships
Build experience across city, state, and national government agencies, international organizations, global NGOs, and the private sector. With guidance from our career coaches, you’ll land positions that align with your skills and interests.
Immerse yourself in simulation exercises
Join one of our simulations for a taste of on-the-ground realities in an interactive environment. From negotiating international conflicts to managing humanitarian crises, these engaging scenarios are a highlight for Korbel students.
Study away to expand your perspective
Korbel students have the opportunity to study in vibrant cities like Rio de Janeiro, Geneva, Vienna, and Washington, D.C. These experiences offer rich firsthand experience and insights, all at no additional tuition cost.
Dive into research that makes a difference
At Korbel, research directly contributes to real-world impact. Many students engage in applied research at our Pardee Institute for International Futures, serving clients like the US government, the United Nations, and the Africa Union.
Enjoy the Denver difference
Balance your graduate work with an active outdoor lifestyle in the Mile-High City. Take advantage of a vibrant art, music, and food scene — while enjoying Colorado’s 300 days of sunshine each year.
Top 3 “Best U.S. Destinations”
Travel Pulse, January 2022
#1 “Most Climate Resilient Cities”
Architectural Digest, July 2023
#1 “Hottest Music Venues in the Country” —
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Rolling Stone, April 2023
#7 “Top U.S. Cities for Active Lifestyles”
WalletHub, April 2024