MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
MSc Sustainable Development
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The University of Sussex offers an MSc in Sustainable Development, a forward-thinking program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the complex environmental, social, and economic challenges of today’s world. The program focuses on the principles and practices of sustainable development, emphasizing the need for integrated solutions to achieve a sustainable future. Through interdisciplinary learning, students are exposed to key global sustainability issues, such as climate change, environmental degradation, and social inequality, while developing strategies to create positive, long-term change. This program is ideal for individuals seeking to work in government, NGOs, private sector companies, and international organizations focused on sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Curriculum: The MSc Sustainable Development curriculum at the University of Sussex is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of sustainability across various dimensions, including environmental, economic, and social aspects. Core modules cover critical topics such as global environmental challenges, climate change science and policy, sustainable development practices, and the role of social justice in sustainability efforts. Students will also explore specific areas like sustainable cities, energy systems, and natural resource management. The curriculum is highly interdisciplinary, drawing from fields such as environmental science, economics, political science, and social development, ensuring students gain a holistic understanding of sustainable development. In addition to lectures, students engage in practical, real-world learning through case studies, group projects, and fieldwork.
Research Focus: The research focus of the MSc Sustainable Development program at the University of Sussex is deeply rooted in addressing urgent global sustainability challenges. The university’s faculty are involved in groundbreaking research across various sustainability-related fields, including climate change, environmental policy, biodiversity conservation, and social sustainability. Students are encouraged to engage in independent research, contributing to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable practices and solutions. Research at Sussex often focuses on finding innovative solutions to complex issues like environmental governance, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and climate adaptation. Students have the opportunity to work on research projects alongside faculty members, gaining valuable experience and contributing to sustainability-driven research initiatives.
Industry Engagement: The University of Sussex’s MSc in Sustainable Development is closely linked to industry and international organizations, providing students with practical opportunities to apply their knowledge. The university has strong partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, environmental consultancies, and corporate sustainability departments. These collaborations offer students access to internships, field placements, and live projects, ensuring they gain hands-on experience in the sustainability sector. Through guest lectures, networking events, and industry-focused workshops, students engage with professionals who are actively working on sustainability challenges, gaining insights into real-world applications of sustainable development theories. Sussex’s emphasis on industry engagement ensures that students are well-prepared to step into careers in sustainability, equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Global Perspective: The MSc in Sustainable Development at the University of Sussex takes a global approach, reflecting the interconnectedness of sustainability challenges across borders. Students are encouraged to think critically about how sustainability issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion affect different regions and communities. The program provides a global perspective by exploring the role of international policies, agreements (such as the Paris Agreement), and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in shaping sustainable development initiatives worldwide. Sussex’s diverse international student body and global network of partners ensure that students gain a broad understanding of sustainability challenges and solutions in different cultural and geographical contexts. Graduates are thus prepared to work on sustainability issues at local, national, and international levels.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25000
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Postgraduate Scholarships: International postgraduate students can benefit from the Sussex Graduate Scholarship, which provides a discount on tuition fees for eligible students with strong academic records.This scholarship is available for a variety of postgraduate programs and is aimed at supporting students who wish to advance their studies in the UK.
Chevening Scholarships: The University of Sussex is a partner in the Chevening Scholarship program, which is the UK government’s global scholarship program.Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding individuals from around the world who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships: The University of Sussex is involved in several Erasmus Mundus programs, offering scholarships for international students from EU and non-EU countries.These scholarships support students pursuing joint Master’s degrees across European universities.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
Graduating with an MSc in Sustainable Development from the University of Sussex opens a wide range of career opportunities in the growing field of sustainability. With a strong focus on practical skills, interdisciplinary knowledge, and a global perspective, this program prepares students for leadership roles in environmental policy, social development, corporate sustainability, and more. The demand for sustainability experts across various sectors has grown significantly as organizations and governments alike focus on addressing global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and social inequality.
Sustainability Consultant: Graduates can pursue a career as sustainability consultants, where they advise businesses, governments, and NGOs on how to integrate sustainable practices into their operations. Consultants help organizations reduce their environmental footprint, improve resource efficiency, and comply with sustainability regulations. These professionals often work in sectors like energy, construction, manufacturing, and transport.
Environmental Policy Analyst: Graduates interested in policy development can work as environmental policy analysts, where they research and evaluate policies related to environmental protection, climate change mitigation, and sustainable development. These roles often involve working with government agencies, international organizations, or environmental think tanks to influence public policy and create impactful, sustainable solutions.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager: As a CSR Manager, graduates work within organizations to develop and implement sustainability strategies that align with corporate social responsibility goals. These professionals oversee initiatives that address environmental issues, social equity, and community engagement, ensuring that their companies meet sustainability targets and maintain positive relationships with stakeholders.
Environmental Consultant: Environmental consultants work on a broad range of projects related to environmental impact assessments, waste management, pollution control, and resource conservation. They help organizations comply with environmental regulations, minimize environmental harm, and develop sustainable practices. Consultants may work for private environmental firms, governmental bodies, or international development organizations.
Project Manager for Sustainability Initiatives: In this role, graduates manage sustainability-related projects, from design and implementation to monitoring and evaluation. They could oversee projects focused on renewable energy, conservation, sustainable agriculture, or urban sustainability. Project managers ensure that projects meet goals, budgets, and deadlines while adhering to sustainability principles.
Climate Change Analyst/Advisor: Climate change experts analyze data related to climate patterns, evaluate environmental policies, and recommend strategies for reducing the effects of climate change. They work with governmental organizations, international agencies, and NGOs to help mitigate climate change, build climate resilience, and support global environmental initiatives.
Sustainable Development Researcher: Graduates can pursue careers in academic or applied research, contributing to the development of new theories and practices in sustainable development. Research areas may include climate policy, sustainable cities, renewable energy, biodiversity conservation, or the integration of social equity into sustainability programs. Research roles often involve working at universities, research institutes, or think tanks.
International Development Specialist: With a focus on global sustainability issues, graduates can work as international development specialists, focusing on sustainable development goals (SDGs) in low- and middle-income countries. These professionals work with international organizations, NGOs, or development agencies to implement projects that promote social equity, economic development, and environmental sustainability in communities worldwide.
Energy Manager/Advisor: Energy managers or advisors focus on developing and implementing strategies to optimize energy use within organizations, ensuring energy efficiency and promoting renewable energy solutions. Graduates can work in industries such as manufacturing, construction, or the public sector to help organizations meet sustainability targets and reduce energy consumption.
Sustainable Urban Development Specialist: In this role, graduates contribute to the development of sustainable cities and urban environments. They focus on designing and implementing strategies for green infrastructure, sustainable housing, waste management, and low-carbon urban planning. These professionals may work with local governments, urban planning agencies, or international organizations.
