What is the SEAS + Ross Program?
The University of Michigan Erb Institute’s MS/MBA dual degree combines graduate study in environment and sustainability at SEAS with a business education from Ross. It is designed for students who want to build expertise in environmental problem-solving, management, strategy and leadership.
This program is especially valuable for students who want to work on sustainability from a business perspective, whether in consulting, clean energy, corporate sustainability, impact investing or public-private leadership.
Who Should Apply?
This program is designed for students who want to combine environmental expertise with strong business and leadership skills. It prepares future professionals to integrate sustainability with organizational strategy, lead meaningful change, and make informed decisions that create long-term environmental and business value.
What Will You Study?
Students in the MS/MBA dual degree study a combination of business fundamentals and sustainability-focused coursework. At Ross, they build a rigorous foundation in core business disciplines through classes in strategy, finance, operations and leadership, along with electives and action-based learning. At SEAS, they choose from seven specializations—including Behavior, Education and Communication, Sustainable Systems, Environmental Policy and Planning, Environmental Justice, Ecosystem Science and Management, Geospatial Data Sciences, and Sustainability and Development—while also exploring topics such as social impact, entrepreneurship, corporate responsibility, change management, energy and environmental impact.
How Long Does It Take—and How Does It Work?
The program combines the 57-credit MBA with the 42-credit MS into a 77-credit dual degree, which includes 32 credits from SEAS and 45 credits from Ross. Students must still fulfill the core requirements of both schools, but some coursework can count toward both degrees, which is what makes the combined path shorter than earning them separately.
Where Do Graduates Work?
Graduates of the MS/MBA dual degree work at leading companies across sustainability, consulting, energy and consumer goods, including Nike, Amazon, Danone, McKinsey & Company and NextEra Energy Resources. Their careers often focus on sustainability strategy, clean energy and responsible business leadership.
How Does This Compare to Getting the Degrees Separately?
The dual-degree MBA/MS places sustainability at the center of the program, rather than as a concentration inside the MBA. It also includes Erb Institute-specific cohort programming, workshops, funding and networking opportunities. Traditionally, 99 credits in total would be required to earn the MBA and MS degrees separately; however, the dual degree allows credits to count toward both degrees, simplifying planning and enabling graduation within three years.
Signature Experiences at SEAS + Ross
A specific requirement of the program is Erb on the Road, a course designed exclusively for first-year Erb students. The dual-degree structure also gives students time for two summer internships, which can help with career exploration and recruiting.
Funding & Scholarships
The MS/MBA dual-degree program offers several funding opportunities, including Erb Institute scholarships, the $10,000 service scholarship for eligible applicants and the MÁS Scholarship. Students may also be considered for Ross, SEAS and Rackham Graduate School funding, as well as assistantships and fellowships. For qualifying summer positions, the Erb Institute may also provide internship stipends. Funding is competitive, and students often combine multiple sources to help cover the cost of the degree.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start at Ross or SEAS first?
Students may begin at either Ross or SEAS. The best starting point depends on your funding, preferences and academic timeline.
What internship opportunities are available?
Because the program spans multiple years, students can usually complete two summer internships during graduate study. This gives them time to explore different career paths and build experience.
How is the dual degree different from a Ross MBA with an Environmental, Social and Governance concentration?
The dual-degree MS/MBA places sustainability at the center of the program rather than as a concentration inside the MBA. It also includes Erb-specific cohort programming, workshops, funding and networking opportunities.