MSc Marketing (Sustainable Marketing)

Program Overview

The MSc Marketing (Sustainable Marketing) program at the University of Reading is designed for individuals who are passionate about combining marketing expertise with sustainability principles to create business strategies that contribute to long-term environmental and social well-being. As sustainability becomes a central concern for businesses, this program focuses on the intersection of marketing and sustainability, equipping students with the skills needed to drive change and promote sustainable practices within the global marketplace. The course addresses the complexities of sustainable development, ethical marketing, and corporate social responsibility, offering students a unique perspective on how businesses can achieve growth while respecting the planet and society. Graduates of the MSc in Sustainable Marketing are prepared to lead marketing efforts that not only drive profit but also promote positive environmental and social outcomes.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MSc Marketing (Sustainable Marketing) program combines core marketing principles with specialized knowledge in sustainability and corporate responsibility. The program provides a thorough understanding of sustainable business practices, ethical consumer behavior, and environmental marketing strategies. Core modules include "Sustainable Marketing Strategies," "Ethical Consumer Behavior," "Sustainability and Business," and "Marketing Communications for Sustainability." These modules provide students with a deep understanding of how companies can adopt marketing practices that meet the needs of modern, conscious consumers while minimizing environmental impacts. Students also have the opportunity to choose from elective modules that allow them to specialize in areas such as sustainable supply chain management, green marketing, and corporate social responsibility. The curriculum is designed to provide both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, enabling students to address real-world challenges in sustainable marketing. The program culminates in a dissertation or business project, giving students the opportunity to research and propose innovative sustainable marketing solutions for real businesses or industries.

Research Focus: The University of Reading is known for its strong research focus on sustainability and marketing. The faculty members bring cutting-edge research on topics such as ethical consumer behavior, sustainable supply chains, and the role of marketing in promoting sustainable consumption. Research in this area is increasingly critical, as businesses worldwide seek to adapt to growing pressures around environmental issues, climate change, and social responsibility. Research in the MSc Marketing (Sustainable Marketing) program is integrated with the curriculum, ensuring students benefit from the latest advancements and insights in sustainable marketing. Topics such as sustainability in marketing communications, the effectiveness of green marketing strategies, and the role of digital marketing in promoting sustainable behaviors are key research areas. Students will have the chance to engage in research-driven projects and contribute to ongoing academic work in the field of sustainable marketing. This research-led approach helps students understand the latest trends, best practices, and challenges facing the industry, allowing them to develop the expertise required for leadership roles in sustainable marketing.

Industry Engagement: The MSc Marketing (Sustainable Marketing) program places a strong emphasis on industry engagement and provides students with ample opportunities to connect with professionals and organizations in the sustainable business and marketing sectors. Through guest lectures, industry seminars, and collaborative projects, students interact with thought leaders, sustainability experts, and marketing professionals who are shaping the future of sustainable business practices. Additionally, students have access to internship opportunities, consultancy projects, and work placements with leading companies committed to sustainability. These experiences offer students hands-on opportunities to apply their learning in real-world contexts, enabling them to develop practical skills while building valuable networks within the industry. The University of Reading has established relationships with a variety of businesses and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that are dedicated to sustainable development, providing students with the chance to engage in projects that align with their career goals.

Global Perspective: As sustainability is a global concern, the MSc Marketing (Sustainable Marketing) program offers a broad international perspective, preparing students to address sustainability challenges and marketing opportunities in diverse cultural and business environments. The program explores sustainability from a global viewpoint, considering regional differences in consumer behavior, regulatory frameworks, and the sustainability goals of companies operating across borders. The diverse student body at the University of Reading further enhances the global experience, with students from various cultural backgrounds bringing different perspectives to class discussions and projects. This international outlook ensures that graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to manage sustainable marketing strategies in multinational corporations or to work in global markets where environmental and social responsibility is becoming increasingly important. The program’s global approach also prepares students to contribute to the international dialogue on sustainability, offering them the opportunity to work in a wide range of global industries that are embracing sustainability as a key strategic focus.