The international, interdisciplinary and research-oriented study programme focusses on issues related to sustainability, the environment and development as well as the challenges in transitioning 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.

English C1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

840 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 and, ideally, already have some initial experience (e.g. internships, voluntary work, work experience).

Contents

Students examine the opportunities and problems of transitioning to a more environmentally and socially accountable society from various perspectives, acquiring a wealth of knowledge about current and future issues of sustainable development. Hallmarks of the programme are its high degree of relevance to society and its strong interdisciplinary nature.

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 period abroad of at least one semester is an integral part of the degree programme. With the coordinated range of courses offered at the participating universities in Graz (Austria), Utrecht (Netherlands), Venice (Italy), Basel (Switzerland) and Hiroshima (Japan), students have the opportunity to study at various locations.

Application

Course start:                         Winter semester (if the minimum number of participants enrol)
Admission restriction (NCU):   no
Application period:                Information on deadlines and the application process
Application portal:                 Portal Sustainable Development

You can find more information about the application process and requirements on the degree programme website.

Internationality

Study period at one of the foreign partner universities in the second semester

Compulsory curriculum in English

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

  • Double Master's degree with University of Graz (Austria) or Ca' Foscari University Venice (Italy)
  • Joint Master's degree option with Hiroshima University (Japan)