The international, interdisciplinary and research-oriented study programme is intended to educate scientists in such a way that they can make a substantial contribution to the transition to a sustainable society.

At a glance

  • Field of study

    natural and earth science, social sciences, economics
  • Degree type

    postgraduate
  • Degree

    Master of Science, non-consecutive master’s
  • Language of instruction

    English
  • Full/part-time

    full-time
  • Course start

    winter semester
  • Admission restriction

    without admission restriction
  • Standard period of study

    four semesters

  • ECTS credits

    120

Requirements

  • A first bachelor’s degree focusing mainly on economic, social, earth or natural science and related to sustainability topics (this reference can also be proven by corresponding professional experience);
  • professional experience of usually at least one year.

C1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

800 euros per semester (two-year programme), plus the semester fee

The degree programme is geared towards natural and social scientists who are interested in the field of sustainability, want to systematically broaden their knowledge and, ideally, already have some initial experience (e.g. internships, voluntary work, work experience).

Contents

The Joint International Master’s Programme in Sustainable Development approaches sustainability issues from an interdisciplinary perspective. The focus is set on developing the scientific skills needed for students who wish to contribute to the transformation towards a more environmentally and socially accountable society. The programme consists of different tracks, allowing students to specialise in the natural or social sciences depending on their previous education.

The programme prepares students to pursue a doctorate and work in further scholarly fields, but also for a wide range of professional careers in companies, organisations and public institutions.

A mandatory semester abroad at one of the participating universities (Graz (Austria), Utrecht (Netherlands), Venice (Italy), Basel (Switzerland) and Hiroshima (Japan)) is an integral part of the degree course.

Possibility of an additional mobility semester at TERI (India) or Stellenbosch (South Africa).

Application

Course start: winter semester

Information about application periods and how to apply can be found under:

how to apply

Internationality

Award of a double degree with the international partner universities in Graz, Utrecht and Venice if applicable (depending on the partner universities attended)