M.A. in Sustainable Communities

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate programs

1. Academic Qualifications: International students applying for postgraduate programs at NAU should have completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The university typically requires a minimum academic performance of 65% or higher for consideration.

2. English Language Proficiency: 

   • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.
   • TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 80 or higher.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.

To support their academic pursuits, NAU offers various scholarships and financial aid options. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievements, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community. International students are encouraged to explore the available scholarships to help ease the financial burden of studying in the United States. 

1. Global Achievement Award: This scholarship is available to incoming international undergraduate students and is based on academic merit. The Global Achievement Award provides partial tuition waivers, making quality education more affordable for deserving international students.

2. International Excellence Award: The International Excellence Award is a competitive scholarship available to outstanding international students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements. Recipients of this scholarship receive a substantial tuition reduction.

3. Into NAU Scholarships: Into NAU is a pathway program for international students, and it offers several merit-based scholarships for students entering NAU through the program. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and leadership potential.

4. Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship: This scholarship is available to transfer students who are members of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. It offers financial assistance to eligible international transfer students pursuing their bachelor's degree at NAU.

5. Diversity Scholarships: NAU values diversity and offers several scholarships that promote inclusivity and support underrepresented international students. These scholarships aim to foster a diverse and inclusive campus community.

6. Athletic Scholarships: Talented student-athletes have the opportunity to receive athletic scholarships, which are awarded based on athletic performance, skills, and potential to contribute to NAU's athletic teams.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at NAU offer scholarships to international students based on specific academic achievements and majors. Students are encouraged to inquire with their respective departments for available opportunities.

8. Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students may have the chance to secure graduate assistantships, which provide financial support and valuable professional experience through research, teaching, or administrative roles.

9. External Scholarships: NAU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities available through organizations, governments, and foundations that provide financial support for studying in the United States.

Application Process and Deadlines: Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Sustainable Communities program at Northern Arizona University prepares graduates for a wide range of rewarding and impactful careers focused on creating sustainable and resilient communities. With a strong interdisciplinary foundation and a deep understanding of sustainability principles, graduates are equipped to address the pressing challenges faced by communities and work towards building a more sustainable future.  

1. Sustainability Coordinator: Graduates can work as sustainability coordinators in various organizations, developing and implementing sustainable practices and initiatives.

2. Urban Planner: With expertise in sustainable community planning, graduates can work as urban planners, designing and implementing sustainable development projects.

3. Community Development Specialist: Graduates may pursue careers as community development specialists, working with communities to identify and address sustainability challenges.

4. Environmental Consultant: With a focus on environmental stewardship, graduates can work as environmental consultants, advising organizations on sustainable practices.

5. Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as policy analysts, evaluating existing policies and making recommendations for more sustainable and equitable policies.

6. Non-profit Manager: Graduates may choose to work in non-profit organizations focused on sustainability and community development, managing programs and initiatives.

7. Sustainability Educator: With a focus on education, graduates can work as sustainability educators, raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices in schools and communities.

8. Green Building Specialist: Graduates can work in the construction industry as green building specialists, ensuring that buildings are designed and constructed with sustainable principles.

9. Social and Environmental Justice Advocate: With a focus on social equity, graduates can work as advocates for social and environmental justice, addressing the needs of marginalized communities.

10. Sustainability Consultant: Graduates can work as sustainability consultants, providing expertise to businesses and organizations on how to become more sustainable.