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Environmental Conservation: Environmental Conservation MS

Master of Science in Environmental Conservation

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Is this program right for you?

The UW–Madison Master of Science in Environmental Conservation is a solution-oriented, interdisciplinary program emphasizing real-world experience and networking. You’ll work with conservation professionals to learn how to apply tools from conservation planning, environmental policy, and sustainable development while gaining expertise in financial management, GIS, and policy.

  • Complete your master’s in just 15 months through face-to-face learning on campus in summer and fall, online courses in spring, and a leadership experience in your final summer
  • Benefit from a network of contacts—from small NGOs to large international organizations—who are eager to offer opportunities to our students
  • This program is offered through the Nelson Institute, renowned for its innovative approaches in environmental studies and conservation

Education that works for you

Built on the legacy of Wisconsin’s environmental leaders, the UW–Madison MS in Environmental Conservation is a condensed and immersive program. Gain the skills to address global conservation challenges—and to advance your career.

Program type

Master’s degree

Graduate education in a specific area of expertise

Explore program types

Degree awarded

Master of Science in Environmental Conservation

Commitment

15 months

Tuition

$1,000 per credit

Format

Accelerated

Fast-paced program with higher course load

Hybrid

Mix of on-campus and online courses

Credits

32 graduate credits

Admission terms

Program only admits for summer term

Offered by

STEM opt eligible

Yes

Supports F-1 Visa

Application deadlines

Summer 2025

  • Domestic deadline: May 1, 2025

Summer 2026

  • Priority deadline: December 1, 2025
  • International deadline: February 10, 2026
  • Domestic deadline: May 1, 2026

Summer 2027

  • Priority deadline: December 1, 2026
  • International deadline: February 1, 2027
  • Domestic deadline: May 1, 2027
View UW–Madison’s Guide

Your questions, answered

Have questions? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

Admissions and events

Program requirements

All applicants must:

  • Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0*
  • Submit evidence of English language proficiency, if applicable. See the Graduate School Requirements for more information

*GRE scores are not needed for students with a 3.0 or higher GPA; applicants with a GPA below 3.0 should connect with the program coordinator and must also submit GRE scores.

Application materials required

  • Online application
  • Resume/CV
  • Statement of interest
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation

For complete application details visit UW–Madison’s Guide →

February 20, 2025 from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Graduate Programs Virtual Open House

Hear from enrollment coaches and other staff to gain insight into the application process, and discover the array of services and resources available to graduate students at UW–Madison.

Register now →

Results that work for you

Environmental Conservation: Environmental Conservation MS

$51,000

Estimated median salary in 2019

Job titles

  • Program management
  • Education and outreach
  • Community engagement
  • Communications
  • Conservation planning
  • Fundraising
  • Policy
  • Restoration
  • Environmental consulting

Top industries

  • Government
  • NGOs
  • Industry
  • Academia

6.3%

Projected growth for conservation scientists from 2016-2026. Source: Burning Glass Technologies: Labor Insight, 2020.

What you’ll learn

Through a blend of coursework and fieldwork, you’ll learn relevant ecological, social, and professional skills to facilitate more effective decision making, better work with people, and ultimately lead to stronger environmental outcomes as a leader in environmental conservation.

For complete curricular details visit UW-Madison’s Guide →
  • Conservation science
  • Strategic communication
  • Conservation planning & GIS
  • Land use policy
  • Conservation leadership

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