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Master of Science in Sustainable Engineering

The Master of Science Degree in Sustainable Engineering (MS SE) is housed within the Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation (MCSI), with the degree granted from the Swanson School of Engineering. The 30-credit program is designed to prepare students to identify and solve sustainability issues using systems approaches in the context of environmental, social, and economic problems. Students will foster sustainable technologies, science, and practices in the U.S. and abroad.

Our Program

Program Objectives

  • Create regional and nationally scalable sustainability solutions through service learning projects with a cohort of students.
  • Provide students with experiences that enable them to communicate sustainability issues and solutions to multiple audiences.

Depth of Learning

  • Provide advanced education to graduate students to identify and solve sustainability issues using systems approaches in the context of the triple bottom line of environmental, societal, and economic problems.
  • Create a rigorous program with breadth and depth to propel graduate students to foster sustainable technologies, science, and practices in the U.S. and abroad.

View course requirements for the MSSE.

Click below to apply for the Master of Science in Sustainable Engineering (MSSE) program.

Apply for MSSE

Please note: We require two letters of recommendation for each application.

Melissa Bilec quote about the MSSE program

Click here to access text version of Dr. Melissa Bilec's quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the process of applying? 

For general application details, visit the Swanson School of Engineering site.

Those who are eligible for the Engineering Accelerated Graduate Program or meet the requirements of Pitt2Pitt should also visit the SSOE site.

If you are not applying through the EAGR or Pitt2Pitt program, you will apply via the EngineeringCAS system. You will have to set up an account. We require at least 2 recommendations for your application to be considered.

International students: You will have to submit TOEFL results along with your application. For more information about international studies, visit the Office of International Services site.

Please find more University of Pittsburgh graduate study resources at Office of the Provost - Graduate Studies.

I’m a non-engineering and non-science major. Is this degree possible for me?

Yes! Our staff and faculty will work with you to ensure you are equipped with the foundation necessary to succeed in the program. Specifically, we would discuss, based on previous work and courses, what pre-requisites are needed (e.g., physics, chemistry, math, intro engineering courses).

Are there any scholarships available for MS students?

Yes, there is the John C. Mascaro Scholarship which provides partial funding to Master’s students in our program. Details on applying can be found here.

Can I learn more about what courses I will take?

Absolutely. Email Savannah Denlinger to schedule an appointment with the program director, Dr. David Sanchez. We will help to create a plan of study tailored to your academic and professional goals.

For more information, email Savannah Denlinger at SLD127@pitt.edu.