International Affairs: Natural Resources and Sustainable Development - MA

Sustainability, justice and peace: A different vision for the planet.

How can we address the root causes of environmental degradation and underdevelopment? The Natural Resources and Sustainable Development (NRSD) program travels from Washington, DC, to Costa Rica to investigate how to alleviate poverty while protecting the environment. Our interdisciplinary perspective highlights inequality in access to resources—key drivers in environmental conflict and global environmental change. The NRSD dual degree provides the opportunity to gain a broad, big-picture perspective on sustainable development theory in Washington, DC, at American University's School of International Service (SIS) and to explore sustainable development in practice at the University for Peace (UPeace) in Costa Rica. You'll earn an MA in International Affairs from American University and an MA in Natural Resources and Sustainable Development from the University for Peace.

You'll pair your passion for social justice and ecological sustainability with the knowledge and skills needed to work in government, environmental NGOs, or sustainable development-focused private sector organizations around the world. The program prepares you to become a visionary leader in stewarding the Earth's resources for the benefit of all.