Workshop in Applied Earth Systems Manage

This workshop is the second course in a three-semester sequence that serves as the professional development core of the MPA in Environmental Science and Policy. Building on the foundation established during the summer semester, students continue to refine their management and analytical skills through applied work on simulated public sector sustainability projects.

Students work in teams to design and implement a one-year operational plan for an environmental sustainability program. Each project addresses real-world management and implementation challenges, including budgeting, staffing, political analysis, performance planning, and scheduling. Students are expected to draw on the scientific, economic, and policy tools they have acquired to date, applying them in an integrated and practical context.

The course emphasizes project management, teamwork, and professional communication. Students assume defined leadership roles, develop briefings, and produce a final report that outlines a feasible policy direction and operational strategy. Through simulated client interactions and instructor-led seminars, students gain firsthand experience with the complexities of managing environmental programs in the public and nonprofit sectors.