The University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability, formerly known as the School of Natural Resources and Environment, was established in 1927 and renamed in 2017 to reflect its expanded mission. It stands as one of the oldest and most prestigious environmental graduate schools in the United States, pioneering interdisciplinary approaches to environmental challenges. The school has evolved from focusing primarily on forestry and conservation to encompassing a broad spectrum of sustainability issues including climate change, environmental justice, and corporate sustainability.
SEAS is consistently ranked among the top environmental graduate programs globally, known for its rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates natural sciences, social sciences, policy, and business. The school offers Master of Science and Master of Landscape Architecture degrees, along with dual degree options and a Ph.D. program. Faculty members are internationally recognized experts in fields ranging from ecosystem ecology to environmental policy, and the school maintains strong partnerships with organizations worldwide. SEAS emphasizes experiential learning through its Master's Project requirement, where students work with real clients on pressing environmental challenges.
The school culture is collaborative and mission-driven, attracting students passionate about creating positive environmental change. Students benefit from small class sizes, close mentorship relationships with faculty, and access to the broader University of Michigan resources. The SEAS community is known for its diversity of perspectives, backgrounds, and career goals, united by a common commitment to sustainability. Located in the Dana Building, the school features LEED-certified spaces and serves as a living laboratory for sustainable practices, fostering a tight-knit community where students engage in everything from student-run conferences to outdoor recreation clubs.
| Type | Public Research |
| Location | Ann Arbor, Michigan |
| Founded | 1927 |
| Total students | 500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 11:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 35% |
| Graduation rate | 98% |
| Average starting salary | $65,000 |
| In-state tuition | $26,336 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $50,508 |
| Room & board | $13,000 |
| Average financial aid | $15,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 75% |
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.50 |
| Regular deadline | December 1 |
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.