
The Climate Change and Energy Concentration prepares students to confront one of the most pressing challenges of our time: climate change and its wide-ranging impacts on people and the planet. This concentration offers a solid grounding in climate science while emphasizing the practical planning tools and strategies needed to implement sustainable solutions across urban development, energy systems, transportation, agriculture, and land conservation. Students delve into the complexities of rising global temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and growing environmental and social vulnerabilities. Through this work, they gain the skills to design resilient communities and lead the shift toward carbon-neutral and carbon-negative energy futures. The program also engages students in the political, technological, and logistical dimensions of energy transition—equipping them to navigate the real-world barriers to large-scale sustainability initiatives. Hands-on learning is central to the experience, with opportunities for applied research, internships, and community-based projects that prepare graduates to lead in climate and energy planning at local, national, and global levels.