Graduate Admissions for MSL

Lead with purpose. Think globally. Study locally.

If you’re passionate about solving real-world environmental challenges—and you want the knowledge, mentorship, and connections to make it happen—the University at Buffalo Department of Environment and Sustainability is a smart place to start.

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Why Choose UB?

🎓 Expert Mentorship. You’ll work with internationally recognized faculty who are researchers, policy experts, and sustainability practitioners. Whether you’re focused on climate, conservation, or communication, your mentors will bring real-world insight into every class.

🌍 A City on the Rise. Buffalo, NY is affordable, vibrant, and full of opportunity. Network with government agencies, environmental orgs, local businesses and startups—all in a region deeply engaged in climate and sustainability transformation.

💼 Career Preparation. From consulting and policy to community work and research, our grads go on to lead in diverse sectors. Hands-on projects, internships, and community partnerships give you the skills and connections to launch a career with real impact.

Eligibility

We recommend a GPA of 3.0 or higher at the time of application. You’ll need to maintain that GPA throughout the program; drop below, and you may be placed on academic probation

International students should review UB’s International admissions page for IELTS, PTE or TOEFL score requirements before applying.

Funding Opportunities

PhD Funding Opportunities

Academic year stipends of $23,690 and a full tuition waiver for all full-time, funded PhD students on 10-month academic teaching assistant, research assistant, or graduate assistant appointments.

  • UB’s stipend levels are competitive among public Association of American Universities (AAU) member institutions.

Additional Fellowship Opportunities:

  • Arthur A. Schomburg Fellowship Program: Candidates are required to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and must demonstrate how they have overcome a disadvantage or other impediment to success in higher education. Candidates must also demonstrate a commitment to contributing to the diversity of the student body by facilitating and enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in their academic programs and campus activities. Even though financial need is not a requirement for program eligibility, applicants may utilize economic disadvantage as a basis for eligibility. This scholarship program is open to any and all prospective candidates regardless of race, color, national origin, or sex, and is consistent with all current governing federal and state nondiscrimination law. All application submissions will be assessed and evaluated in accordance with the required eligibility criteria. Students may apply for the Schomburg Fellowship on the UB graduate application for their program.
  • Presidential Fellowships: To be eligible for Presidential Fellowships, candidates must meet the criteria listed on the Presidential Fellowship page. Both domestic and international students are eligible, if they meet these criteria. For any questions regarding funding for academic year 2025–2026, contact the director of graduate studies or department chair.
View Presidential and Schomburg Fellowship Details

How to Apply

Step 1: Review the Application Checklist

Before you apply, make sure you have:

  • Names and email addresses of two recommenders who can speak to your academic or professional strengths (they’ll get a prompt to upload letters after you submit your application). 
  • A statement of purpose, where you tell us about your academic background, professional goals, and how this program fits into your big-picture plans.
  • Unofficial transcripts (official copies will be required if you’re admitted).
  • Copy of your passport’s biographical page (international applicants only)
  • Language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.—if applicable)
Application fee: $75

Pay online through UB Graduate website or by check/money order to the University at Buffalo.

Step 2: Start Your Graduate Application

Apply using UB’s online application system.

  • Create an account
  • Choose your program and term
  • Follow the instructions for the College of Arts and Sciences
  • Returning users: Log in to check your status or update your application
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Request more information before you apply
Application Deadline

Apply by January 31 for priority review. After that, apps are reviewed until all spots are filled.

Questions?

Contact the Graduate Enrollment Team at: 📧 arts-sciences@buffalo.edu