Benefit Choose a Policy-Centered Sustainable Energy Degree
JHU’s unique blend of policy analysis, economics, finance, and geopolitical expertise prepares you to lead across global energy markets.
Master of Arts in Sustainable Energy (online)
Build Expertise to Tackle Global Energy Challenges in Today's Climate
Why Choose Johns Hopkins SAIS?
At the heart of Johns Hopkins SAIS is a simple promise: Academic Rigor. Policy Relevance. Global Impact. These values shape everything we do, and each of the reasons below shows how they come to life in the Master of Arts in Sustainable Energy (online).
Because Reputation Matters
Our graduates advance to senior roles at top energy companies, consulting firms, and global organizations, and benefit from a 24,000+ alumni network across 175 countries.
Because We Set Industry Standards
Our professors are leading scholars and trusted policy advisors whose work shapes boardrooms, governments, and international organizations with expertise in global energy markets and policy.
Because We Attract Top Students
In every course, you’ll collaborate with peers who challenge your thinking, expand your perspective, and reflect the diverse, international community that defines Johns Hopkins SAIS.
Because Global Markets Need Global Minds
We prepare students to navigate the complexities of sustainable energy by combining interdisciplinary coursework, policy relevance, and real-world insight.
Take the Next Step Now
Earn your master’s degree part-time in just 21 months — no GRE/GMAT needed.
21
Months
Part-time
Months
Part-time
10
Courses
Online
Courses
Online
GRE/
GMAT
Not Required
GMAT
Not Required
Partial Tuition
Scholarship
Scholarship
August 24, 2026
Start Date
Start Date
Request Information
To learn more about the MA in Sustainable Energy (online) and download a brochure, fill out the fields below, or call +1 443-565-4632 to talk with one of our enrollment specialist.
Who Is This Program For?
This program attracts ambitious professionals seeking advanced roles in the energy sector.
Our students arrive with previous professional experience and are seeking to accelerate their career growth. They want to add policy and market analysis to their technical or business expertise and ultimately position themselves for high-level strategic positions. Learn more about the students who chose JHU for their success.
In our classes, you'll find professionals with:
- Diverse professional experience that enriches class discussions
- The ability to tackle complex problems and apply solutions in real-world contexts
- A drive to excel in a rigorous academic environment
- A commitment to advancing their careers in the sustainable energy sector
We welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds and take a holistic approach to admissions. There is no minimum GPA or GRE/GMAT requirement.
Program Benefits
Benefit Lead in Growing Energy Markets
Our Washington DC connections place you where policy happens, while our international focus sets you up for success in the world’s fastest-growing energy markets.
Benefit Thrive Through Market Shifts
The regularly updated curriculum reflects real-time industry needs, thanks to direct input from energy companies and other market leaders.
Benefit Learn from Those Who Set Industry Standards
Your professors are renowned researchers and industry experts who know how to build consensus on complex issues and convert analysis into action.
Earn your master’s degree part-time in just 21 months — no GRE/GMAT needed.
Scholarship – No Separate Application Necessary
We recognize that pursuing an advanced degree is a significant investment in both time and resources. In an effort to make our program more financially accessible, students admitted to the Master of Arts in Sustainable Energy (online) for fall 2026 are now eligible for a tuition scholarship. This is the first time we’ve extended this opportunity.
Scholarship Details
Virtual Events
Master's in Sustainable Energy Program Summary
Success in global energy markets requires a command of policy and business. The Master of Arts in Sustainable Energy (online) at Johns Hopkins SAIS delivers this powerful combination. Our curriculum builds sophisticated expertise in economics, finance, geopolitics, and quantitative and qualitative analysis.
We designed this program for working professionals who want both excellence and flexibility. Complete advanced coursework online, then strengthen your network during two in-person residencies in Washington DC.
Our graduates thrive because they see the full picture. They can translate policy signals into market opportunities and turn complex challenges into competitive advantages.
MA in Sustainable Energy Topic Areas
Washington DC Residency Experiences
Two required in-person residencies in Washington DC frame your degree experience:
- The first residency launches your capstone research with essential tools and analytics training.
- The second residency showcases your work and celebrates your achievement at the Johns Hopkins SAIS commencement ceremony.
Both residencies are an excellent opportunity to network with DC’s sustainable energy leaders and build valuable connections with peers and faculty.
Sustainable Energy Career Outlook
As global leaders push for clean energy solutions, demand for professionals skilled in strategy, governance, and policy continues to grow.
The IEA projects that between 2024 and 2030, the world will add over 5,500 GW of new renewable energy capacity, nearly three times the growth seen from 2017 to 2023. In the US, clean energy jobs rose 4.2% in 2023, more than twice the 2.0% growth of the overall economy, adding around 142,000 new positions (Utility Dive).
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Energy Auditors
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Urban and Regional Planners
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Environmental Economists
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Industrial Ecologists
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Sustainability Specialists
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Project Management Specialists
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Environmental Compliance Inspectors
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Wind Energy Development Managers
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Chief Sustainability Officers
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Climate Change Policy Analysts
Our students can go into these careers:
Powered by Lightcast
Energy Auditors
$ 71k per year
Median Salary
410
Job Openings
3,416
Currently Employed
-0.1%
Projected outlook
$ 71k per year
Median Salary
19,053
Job Openings
150,210
Currently Employed
3.1%
Projected outlook
Urban and Regional Planners
Environmental Economists
Industrial Ecologists
Sustainability Specialists
Project Management Specialists
Environmental Compliance Inspectors
Wind Energy Development Managers
Chief Sustainability Officers
Climate Change Policy Analysts
Professor’s Perspective
The climate crisis demands action, and sustainable energy is key to the solution. This degree equips you with the knowledge and analytical skills to address global challenges in public and private sectors alike.
John Banks, Professor, Johns Hopkins SAIS
Frequently Asked Questions
The dual Washington DC residencies serve as cornerstones of the program, giving you direct access to the epicenter of energy policy innovation. These carefully structured experiences put you in the room with industry leaders and policy architects while building connections that can define your career trajectory.
The first residency sets you up with specialized research skills and industry connections essential for completing your capstone project, while the second celebrates your achievements among established energy leaders. They serve as a powerful complement to your online education.
SAIS Career Services provides personalized job search assistance, one-on-one career coaching, targeted interview preparation, and invitations to DC-area events, including career treks, pitch competitions, and high-level networking opportunities.
We have extensive recruitment channels, with nearly 200 employers visiting Johns Hopkins in person and online annually to present their organizations and recruitment processes.
JHU also offers more than 35 job skills courses annually that focus on highly marketable skills such as intros to R or Python, project management, crafting your “elevator pitch,” getting a security clearance, and more. These courses are completely free for current students and alumni, with most held on campus and some available online.
Other career advantages include:
- The Johns Hopkins name that’s synonymous with excellence and exceptionally capable employees
- A global network of 230,000+ alumni who remain highly engaged with the SAIS community
- Active mentorship opportunities to connect you with established industry professionals
Our sustainable energy master’s program takes a broader approach than many renewable or clean energy degrees. Instead of focusing narrowly on specific technologies such as solar or wind, we incorporate the complete energy landscape. This includes a range of traditional and emerging energy sources.
This benefits our students because effective energy transitions require knowledge of the intricate relationships between existing infrastructure, policy frameworks, market dynamics, and new innovations. Our graduates excel at creating implementable energy solutions that account for political realities, economic constraints, and technical possibilities, a skill set increasingly valued by organizations driving sustainable energy transformation.
Visit our FAQ page for more answers to frequently asked questions.
