Stanford University

Overview

The International Policy Studies master’s programme with a focus on Energy, Natural Resources, and the Environment at Stanford University prepares students to critically analyze and influence policy responses to pressing global issues such as climate change, energy transitions, and resource scarcity. The curriculum bridges academic research on energy and environmental concerns with practical policy-making tools utilized in international governance.

What you'll study

Programme Structure

The curriculum integrates policy-oriented coursework with applied learning opportunities to foster evidence-based evaluations of energy and environmental challenges. Students typically create a cohesive concentration by selecting courses from diverse fields, including energy systems, environmental governance, economics, law, and practical implementation topics.

Indicative course themes include:

• Energy foundations and systems: Understanding Energy, Physics of Energy
• Energy and infrastructure policy: Energy Markets and Policy, Energy and Environmental Policy Analysis, Infrastructure Finance and Governance
• Decarbonisation and built environment: Decarbonised and Energy Efficient Building Design, Energy Efficient Buildings
• Climate, environment, and society: Environmental Economics: Models, Data, and Policy Design, Human Society and Environmental Change, Environmental Justice Colloquium
• Law and governance: Energy Law, Environmental Law and Policy
• Economics, finance, and markets: Electricity Economics, Climate Finance in Private Markets, Global Project Finance
• Food, land, and natural resources: Feeding Nine Billion, World Food Economy, Business of Water
• Risk, displacement, and mobility: Climate Displacement, Migration, and Mobility
• Technology and implementation: Life Cycle Assessments for Complex Systems, Scaling Sustainability Solutions

Capstone / Applied Work

Students are required to complete the programme's concentration requirements, which may involve a final project or equivalent assessment focused on policy application. Specific details may vary based on the term and concentration structure, so students should consult the programme office for further information.

Entry requirements

Currently, there are no specified GRE, GMAT, or GPA requirements for admission to this programme. However, applicants are encouraged to maintain a strong academic background to enhance their chances of acceptance.

Career prospects

Graduates of the International Policy Studies programme often pursue careers in various sectors, including government agencies, international organizations, non-profits, and private companies. They may work in roles focused on policy analysis, environmental consulting, energy management, and resource governance, contributing to sustainable solutions and strategic initiatives addressing global challenges.