Frequently Asked Questions
- Why should I get an MA in Sustainability Studies from Ramapo College?
- Do I need a minimum undergraduate GPA?
- Do I need to take the GRE?
- Can my application still be considered if my undergraduate GPA is below 3.0 or if my GRE scores are low?
- What background do I need in order to enter the program?
- Do I need to maintain a minimum GPA in the program?
- When can I enter the program?
- How many classes are offered in the Summer?
- How long does it take to complete the program?
- When and where are classes held?
- How many courses can I take per semester?
- Will I be able to enter the program if I work full-time?
- How large are the classes?
- What subjects are covered in the program?
- Who teaches in the program?
- Is a thesis necessary?
- What kind of job can I get with an MA in Sustainability Studies?
- What is the cost per semester hour for NJ residents? For non-residents?
- Can I transfer in courses from other graduate programs?
- Are there any fellowships or scholarships available?
- Is graduate housing available?
Why should I get an MA in Sustainability Studies from Ramapo College?
The program is unique in its interdisciplinary, cohort-based structure. Students will learn to apply the skills and knowledge gained to a wide variety of careers including those in 'traditional' environmental fields, as well as emerging careers in sustainability in the public and private sector. The Program is taught by a diverse and strong faculty from multiple disciplinary backgrounds, and offers the opportunity to work with leading experts in the student’s field of choice.
Do I need a minimum undergraduate GPA?
A 3.00 GPA is the program standard.
Do I need to take the GRE?
You need to take the GRE General Test. Scores will be evaluated along with other information in your application packet; there is no set cut-off score.
Can my application still be considered if my undergraduate GPA is below 3.0 or if my GRE scores are low?
The faculty admissions committee reviews multiple pieces of evidence including GRE, undergraduate GPA, resume, references, and the applicant’s narrative statement. A deficit in one area but strengths in others may result in a conditional offer being made. Final selection is contingent on the outcomes of an interview with the Director of the Program.
What background do I need in order to enter the program?
The program is multi and inter-disciplinary. Students with social science, science or business backgrounds are most frequent. However, any background (including engineering, the liberal and fine arts) would be valued if the student demonstrates the desire and motivation to better understand and apply sustainability principles to a range of issues. Students graduating from a Baccalaureate program, as well as mid-career students who are interested in redirecting their focus toward sustainability issues are encouraged to apply.
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Do I need to maintain a minimum GPA in the program?
A 3.00 is needed for graduation. If your GPA drops below 3.0, you will be placed on Academic Probation. Please refer to the Graduate Handbook for further details on this.
When can I enter the program?
Because of the sequential nature of the program, we accept new students for the Fall semester only.
How many classes are offered in the Summer?
In the summer between the first and second years, students will enroll in the Sustainability Practicum. This 4-week experience may include Study Abroad or internship opportunities. Each student’s Practicum is a tailor-made opportunity to engage with sustainability practitioners in a field of concern to each individual student.
How long does it take to complete the program?
It usually takes 2 years to complete the program.
When and where are classes held?
Classes meet once a week, in the evening, at the Sharp Sustainability Education Center.
How many courses can I take per semester?
Full-time graduate students will take two courses per semester. All courses are four credits. The Program is designed to function on a cohort basis, with each group of admitted students moving through the entire Program together.
Will I be able to enter the program if I work full-time?
A. Yes! Classes are scheduled in the evenings (6 pm, usually), and students will be full-time with two courses per semester. The Summer Sustainability Practicum options can be tailored to your specific needs.
How large are the classes?
Maximum enrollment in any class is 20 students.
What subjects are covered in the program?
A. The program is multi and inter-disciplinary. Topics – into which sustainability is front and center – include natural (physical and ecological) resources, environmental economics, environmental assessment, organizational theory, environmental justice, and research methodologies.
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Who teaches in the program?
The faculty at Ramapo have diverse backgrounds in various sustainability-related fields including environmental justice, natural sciences, social sciences, policy and planning. The core faculty in the program are drawn from the School of Social Science and Human Services, Theoretical and Applied Science, and the Anisfield School of Business at Ramapo College. Some courses have modules taught by experts drawn from diverse areas.
Is a thesis necessary?
No. However, in the second year, students enroll in two courses (Project Development in the Fall semester and the Capstone Seminar in the final, Spring, semester), in which they undertake individual research projects under the guidance of a specific faculty member. With their faculty supervisor’s approval, students are encouraged to do the groundwork for this Capstone project during their Summer Sustainability Practicum.
What kind of job can I get with an MA in Sustainability Studies?
Students graduating from the Program will be equipped to work in a diverse range of fields, including planning, policy, and design. Students will be able to function equally effectively within the domains of local, regional, State and Federal Government, as well as in the private sector in consulting firms, or within the non-profit sector in environmental justice and advocacy roles. Mid-career students will be able to return to their field of choice with the additional expertise to apply sustainability principles to their home field.
What is the cost per semester hour for NJ residents? For non-residents?
The 2012 per-credit tuition (including tuition-related fees) is $673.55 for New Jersey residents and $830.80 for non-residents. Additional fees may also apply. (see the Bursar's Website for more details).
Can I transfer in courses from other graduate programs?
Because sustainability graduate programs are few and far between, and our program has specific goals and outcomes infused holistically throughout our tightly integrated program, it is unlikely that equivalent courses exist. However, students should consult with the Program Director and refer to the Graduate Handbook .
Are there any fellowships or scholarships available?
At this time, we do not have financial assistance packages from College sources, except for a single Graduate Assistant position for the Sustainability Education Center. The Assistantship includes tuition and a stipend. Graduate students may be eligible to receive Stafford and Perkins Loans, and are eligible for Federal College Work Study assistance.
Is graduate housing available?
At this time, the College has no housing available for graduate students.
Do you have a question not covered in the FAQ above? Please do submit it to the Director of the Program at vasishth@ramapo.edu.
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