One of the goals of this program is to train the student in transitioning research and observational products related to Earth System Science into public policy and decision-making arenas. Therefore, it is necessary that the student spend time working with a decision-making organization. The M.S. in Earth System Science program provides interdisciplinary training and education to students interested in issues related to the environment and strengthens their capability to conduct research leading to transition of observational and numerical modeling products to public policy and decision making. This M.S. program specifically enables students to gain not only an understanding of the physics of the climate system and the environment but also a working hands-on knowledge of how data and information is used to aid decision makers. The M.S. degree program has a conventional structure. A required set of Core Courses provides students with a coherent disciplinary base. From this core, each student then selects from additional Elective Courses to develop a concentrated expertise and research focus in various areas related to ESS. A set of Supporting (Professional Development) Courses provides training in proposal writing and effective communication skills. Finally, students conduct research and write and defend a Thesis.