Course-Based Pathway FAQ

The Course-Based Pathway is the default experiential pathway for Master of Environmental Management (MEM) and Duke Environmental Leadership (DEL) students. Rather than completing a Master’s Project, students fulfill this requirement by completing approved coursework within their primary concentration.

MEM and DEL students are required to complete an additional six credits through either:

• the Course-Based Pathway (default), OR
• the Master’s Project Pathway (opt-in)

Students who do not pursue a Master’s Project will automatically follow the Course-Based Pathway.

Each primary concentration has its own approved list of courses that satisfy the Course-Based Pathway requirement. These courses are selected to provide applied, experiential learning opportunities and may include:

• Applied project courses
• Capstone-style experiences
• Advanced concentration electives
• Experiential learning courses emphasizing collaboration, problem-solving, and professional skills

Specific requirements vary by concentration. Please visit your primary concentration page on the Nicholas School website for the complete list of approved courses.

The Course-Based Pathway offers students the opportunity to:

• Gain structured, hands-on learning experiences
• Deepen expertise within their concentration
• Participate in applied, project-based coursework
• Maintain flexibility when planning their academic schedule

It is the pathway most Nicholas School students complete.

The Course-Based Pathway is completed through approved coursework selected by your primary concentration.

The Master’s Project is an independent, faculty-supervised project that requires faculty approval and is designed for students who have a specific research or client-based project they wish to pursue. It is an opt-in pathway and is intentionally selective.

In many cases, yes. Whether you can switch from the Master’s Project to the Course-Based Pathway depends on where you are in the academic year. Because the timing is closely tied to course registration deadlines, there are designated periods during which students may change pathways.

Please refer to the Pathway Timeline for the applicable deadlines and important dates. If you are considering a switch, it is important to discuss your plans with both your Master’s Project advisor and your Program Chair as early as possible to ensure a smooth transition and that you remain on track to meet your degree requirements.

• Pathway Timeline for Fall 2025 Matriculants
• Pathway Timeline for Fall 2026 Matriculants

Important: Students should carefully consider their decision before switching from the Master’s Project to the Course-Based Pathway, particularly during their fourth and final semester. Because Course-Based Pathway requirements must be completed through approved coursework, switching late in your program may not leave enough time to fulfill those requirements before graduation. In some cases, this could require extending your time at the Nicholas School to complete your degree. If you are experiencing challenges with your Master’s Project, speak with your Master’s Project Advisor and Program Chair as early as possible to discuss your options before making any changes to your pathway.

Most students complete Course-Based Pathway courses during their second year after selecting courses that meet their concentration requirements. Students interested in pursuing a Master’s Project instead typically submit their MP Prospectus for approval during the spring of their first year.

No. Master of Forestry students fulfill the Nicholas School experiential requirement by completing the required Forestry Capstone and do not complete either the Course-Based Pathway or a Master’s Project.

No. Dual Degree students are not required to complete either the Course-Based Pathway or the Master’s Project. Participation in the joint degree program fulfills the Nicholas School experiential component. Students must complete all experiential or capstone requirements established by their partner degree program.

Approved Course-Based Pathway courses are listed on each primary concentration page on the Nicholas School website. Because requirements differ by concentration, students should consult their concentration page and/or Program Chair/Academic Advisor for the most current information.

If you have questions about the Course-Based Pathway or your concentration requirements, contact:

• Senior Program Coordinator for Professional Programs: Abbey Sheehy
• Senior Program Coordinator for DEL: KT Robbins-Thompson
• Your Academic Advisor
• Your Program Chair

Additional information is also available on the Nicholas School website.