The Master of Science in Sustainable Design is a non-professional research-oriented program, rather than a design-oriented program. Generally speaking, it is intended for students who wish to prepare for a related Ph.D. program, work as sustainability consultants in the AE industry or those who plan to work in public policy and pursue activism related to sustainable architecture or urbanism. A background in architecture or design is optional but not required. <br>The MSSD program is structured such that students primarily work individually, not in designated research groups. By the end of the first year of the program, students select their thesis advisors. The admissions process is centralized and faculty cannot directly admit students to work under their supervision, and conversely, students cannot preselect their faculty thesis committee. Student funding is competitive and there are currently no full scholarships available. Admissions are for the Fall term only, and students are eligible for TA and GRA positions after the first year of enrollment in the program.