MSc Global Sustainable Management (with Placement)

Program Overview

The MSc Global Sustainable Management (with 12 Month Placement) at the University of Worcester is a postgraduate taught program typically completed over two years full-time. The first year involves intensive academic study, covering core modules in global sustainable management. The second year is dedicated to a full-time, 12-month professional placement within a UK-based or potentially international organization focused on sustainability, providing students with practical experience and the opportunity to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting. This integrated placement is a key differentiator, offering substantial benefits for career development and employability within the sustainable management sector. The program is designed for graduates seeking to launch or significantly advance their careers in roles that integrate sustainability into business and organizational practices.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MSc Global Sustainable Management (without placement) is structured to provide a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the field. Core modules typically cover principles of sustainable development, corporate social responsibility and ethics, environmental management and policy, sustainable supply chain management, sustainable finance and investment, global governance and sustainability, social innovation and entrepreneurship, and research methods in sustainable management. For the MSc with the 12-month placement, the first year mirrors this curriculum, providing the essential theoretical framework. The second year focuses entirely on the practical application of these principles during the placement. Students receive support throughout their placement from both the university and their host organization. Assessment methods include essays, case studies, presentations, and a final dissertation or project, often drawing upon their placement experience.

Research Focus: The research focus within the MSc Global Sustainable Management is aligned with contemporary challenges and emerging trends in the field of sustainability. Faculty expertise may encompass areas such as circular economy models, renewable energy transitions, sustainable consumption and production, climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies, social impact assessment, and the role of business in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). During their studies and particularly within their dissertation, students are encouraged to explore research questions relevant to the modern sustainability landscape, often drawing upon their experiences and observations during their professional placement. This applied research focus ensures that graduates are equipped with the analytical skills to address real-world sustainability issues.

Industry Engagement: The inclusion of the 12-month professional placement is a significant and integral aspect of industry engagement for this program. The University of Worcester actively collaborates with a diverse range of organizations across various sectors in the UK and potentially internationally that are committed to sustainable practices to secure valuable placement opportunities for students in sustainability-focused roles. This provides invaluable real-world experience, networking opportunities within the sustainability community, and enhances students' understanding of organizational cultures and practical sustainability initiatives. The program also benefits from guest lectures delivered by sustainability professionals, providing insights into current industry trends, challenges, and best practices.

Global Perspective: The MSc Global Sustainable Management program inherently embraces a strong global perspective. The curriculum focuses extensively on international sustainability challenges, global environmental agreements, cross-cultural aspects of sustainability, and the role of international organizations in promoting sustainable development. Case studies and discussions often explore sustainability issues in various economic, political, and cultural contexts. The program may attract students from diverse international backgrounds, enriching the learning environment and providing opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and understanding of global sustainability challenges and solutions. The 12-month placement further enhances this global perspective by providing practical experience within an international or globally-oriented organization committed to sustainability. This comprehensive global outlook prepares graduates to become effective and impactful leaders in the global sustainability arena.