MSc Global Sustainable Development

Are you driven to address the world’s most urgent challenges, from climate change and social inequality to sustainable economic growth? This interdisciplinary Master’s programme equips you with the critical knowledge and practical skills to understand and implement the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It is your direct route to a career shaping policy, leading projects, and implementing solutions in international development, corporate sustainability, and global non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Intake:

January, June, September

Location:

London

Duration:

1 year (full-time), 2-5 years (part-time)

Fees:

£10,700 oen year

This programme is designed for ambitious graduates who refuse to see global problems in isolation. It moves beyond single-discipline thinking, recognising that solutions to poverty are linked to environmental protection, and that economic prosperity must be tied to social justice. By integrating perspectives from environmental science, politics, economics, and social sciences, you will gain a holistic understanding of the complex, interconnected challenges facing our planet and its people. The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide the core framework for the entire course.

You will delve into the complexities behind the 17 SDGs, learning not just what they are, but how they can be achieved. The course asks the critical questions: how do we translate global targets into local action? What political and economic barriers stand in the way of progress? And how can we ensure that development is truly equitable and just for all communities? Learning is highly practical and policy-focused. You will learn to analyse complex data, critique international policy, evaluate the impact of development projects, and communicate your findings effectively to diverse audiences, from community stakeholders to government officials.

Graduates are prepared for impactful roles across the public, private, and third sectors where an understanding of sustainability is paramount. You could become a Policy Advisor in a government department, a Sustainability Consultant for a multinational corporation, a Project Manager for an international NGO like Oxfam or the WWF, or a Researcher in a think tank. The programme also provides an excellent foundation for pursuing further academic work, such as a PhD, contributing to the research that will shape the future of sustainable development. In a world demanding change, this degree gives you the expertise to lead it.

Core Modules: Foundations of Sustainable Development
These modules are taken by all students and provide the essential theoretical and practical skills for the field.

Sustainable Development: History, Theory and Policy: Explore the origins and evolution of the concept of sustainable development. You will critically analyse the key theories, debates, and policy frameworks, with a central focus on the UN SDGs.
Research Methods and Project Design: Develop the advanced research skills essential for postgraduate study and professional practice. Learn how to design a research project, collect and analyse data, and prepare for your dissertation.
Spaces and Politics of Sustainable Development: Investigate the crucial role of governance, politics, and power in achieving sustainability. You will examine who makes decisions, how policies are implemented, and the challenges of creating change at local, national, and global scales.
Dissertation: Undertake a major independent research project on a topic of your choice within the field of global sustainable development. Guided by an expert supervisor, you will design and execute your study, culminating in a significant piece of original work that showcases your expertise.

Optional Modules: Specialise Your Focus
Students choose two modules from a diverse range, allowing you to tailor your studies to your specific interests and career goals. Options may include:

Climate Change: Science and Policy: Bridge the gap between climate science and political action. Analyse the latest scientific evidence and evaluate the international policy responses designed to mitigate and adapt to climate change.
Critical Global Geographies: Challenge conventional ways of thinking about global issues. This module explores critical theories of development, power, and inequality on a global scale.
Social and Environmental Justice: Examine the concepts of justice, fairness, and equity as they relate to environmental and social issues. You will analyse case studies of injustice and explore movements for change.
Food, Security and Sustainability: Investigate the complexities of the global food system. Explore issues of food security, sustainable agriculture, and the environmental and social impacts of our food choices.
Managing Sustainable Marine and Coastal Environments: Focus on one of the planet’s most critical ecosystems. Learn about the challenges facing our oceans and coasts and explore management strategies for their sustainable use.

Funding Your Studies with Student Finance

You may be eligible to receive financial support from the UK Government to help cover your tuition fees and living expenses while studying.

✔ Tuition Fee Loan – Covers 100% of your tuition fees, paid directly to the university, so you can focus on your studies without financial stress.
✔ Maintenance Loan – Helps with living costs, including rent, food, and travel, making student life more manageable.

At Active Care Education, we simplify the process for you! Our expert team will guide you step-by-step, ensuring you secure the funding you’re entitled to. If you’re a British Citizen, Refugee, have Indefinite Leave to Remain, or hold EU Pre-Settlement Status (2.5 – 3 years), you could qualify for this government-backed funding.

Why wait? Start your journey towards a degree without upfront costs! Contact Active Care Education today for free assistance.