Global Sustainable Development

Learn to understand emerging global challenges through the lens of social justice and environmental sustainability. Gain the skills to apply strategies that create real-world impact. This course prepares you for careers in NGOs, international organisations, policy, and sustainability and development consultancy.

We take an interdisciplinary approach to international development, exploring global challenges through the lens of social justice and sustainability.

Why is global sustainable development important? The population across our planet is increasing and coupled with the huge challenges presented by climate change and depleting resources, we need to think about how we manage the development of interconnected regions, countries and continents. This could mean focusing on specific issues such as clean water and sanitation or gender equality, while recognising that social, economic and environmental issues are linked.

You’ll gain hands-on, practice-based experience and develop professional skills in research, ethics, policy analysis and stakeholder engagement. Studying global sustainable development will enable you to become a globally competent citizen, equipped to make a positive difference in communities and organisations around the world. You may also have the opportunity to do an industry placement as part of your degree.

Your course team are experts in international development and the social sciences, bringing an interdisciplinary perspective to teaching and research. Together, you’ll explore some of the world’s most pressing issues - from climate change and poverty to inequality and global security - all while developing practical skills in research, policy analysis, stakeholder engagement and ethical decision-making.

Our hands-on, practice-based approach ensures you graduate ready for employment across the public, private and third sectors, including Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs), international organisations, sustainability-focused roles, policy making and development consultancy.

Beyond your studies, you can join the Geography Society or GeogSoc as you’ll come to know it - one of the University of Sheffield’s largest and most active societies. GeogSoc runs socials, volunteering, field trips and networking opportunities that enrich your university experience and build a sense of belonging.

Why study this course?

• Practice-oriented learning - Hands-on and problem-based learning, through team projects, policy analysis, professional skills building and fieldwork experiences.

• We cover field trip costs - Fieldwork should be open to everyone; that's why we’ll cover the cost of travel, accommodation and food for all field classes. You’ll be free to focus on exploring new environments and developing new skills, without worrying about extra expenses.

• Top 10 for geography and environmental science (This includes global sustainable development) - Complete University Guide 2026

• Top 10 for geography (This includes global sustainable development) - Guardian University Guide 2026

• Student life - Get involved in GeogSoc and become part of one of the biggest societies at the University of Sheffield. Over 400 members enjoy socials, spending time in the Peak District, career and academic support, volunteering, sports and more.