Through an interdisciplinary approach, you’ll integrate the natural and social sciences with education and fieldwork to help you gain an understanding of the profound effects of human activity on the planet. Explore the role of education in solving environmental problems in multiple settings, from the city to the rainforest.
About
For more than 30 years, the 37-credit MA Program in Environmental Conservation Education prepares graduates for environmental careers in the broad field of environmental education. The program’s interdisciplinary approach draws on both theory and practice and integrates the natural and social sciences with education and fieldwork to help students gain an understanding of the profound effects of human activity on the planet and the role of education in solving environmental problems.
The program draws on faculty from a wide variety of disciplines within the University, including education, history, philosophy, law, journalism, science, health, and the arts.
Core courses in environmental thought, social ecology, environmental politics, and environmental education introduce students to the theories, policies, and ethics that have shaped public discourse and understanding of the environment.
Electives allow students to tailor their program of study to fit their particular conservation education interests in areas such as environmental justice, curriculum design, teacher education, policy studies, sustainable development, ecology, youth education, wildlife education, and sustainability. MA students can take electives within Steinhardt, the Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, and the Graduate School of Arts and Science.
The program also has a strong affiliation with the Program in Science Education in this department, and the Wallerstein Collaborative for Urban Environmental Education at NYU provides students with numerous opportunities to study and work closely with science education faculty on research, curriculum projects, and other environmental initiatives. The integration of coursework with required fieldwork provides students with a unique urban experience in environmental education. The program makes ample use of the vast resources available in New York City, through which students study contemporary environmental issues and programs; evaluate, develop, or implement educational initiatives for children, youth, and adults; or undertake applied research in environmental education.
Students complete internships in a wide variety of organizations, including New York City Audubon, NYC Department of Environmental Protection, Jane Goodall Institute, New York City Soil and Water Conservation District, the United Nations, Rainforest Alliance, the Mayor’s Office of Environmental Coordination, Wildlife Conservation Society, High School of Environmental Studies, Harbor School, the American Museum of Natural History, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and Wave Hill.
The University’s own Sustainability Initiative provides additional opportunities for involvement and learning.
