Global Sustainability (Taught)

The MSc Global Sustainability builds upon and showcases Plymouth’s credentials in global sustainability by bringing together knowledge and expertise from six schools spanning marine, natural, business, and social sciences to deliver an innovative, multidisciplinary Masters programme that offers students access to UoP’s highest profile sustainability experts, and with systems-thinking at its core. Led by SoGEES, the programme’s USP is a bespoke 40-credit ‘flagship’ module ‘Pioneering in Sustainability’, providing research-informed teaching focused on global ‘grand challenges’ (e.g. food security / systems thinking, energy / carbon sequestration, marine sustainability, built environment / sustainable cities, communicating sustainability) and delivered by the world-leading experts in sustainability for which Plymouth is renowned.

What You Will Gain from This Course

1. Learn from the Leaders
   • World-Class Faculty: Be taught directly by pioneering researchers and global thought leaders who are actively shaping international sustainability policy and innovation.
   • Research-Led Teaching: Your curriculum is informed by the very latest discoveries from our internationally recognised research institutes, ensuring your knowledge is current, relevant, and responds to global challenges.
2. A Unique 'Living Laboratory'
   • Britain's Ocean City: Study at the heart of the UK's marine science ecosystem. Plymouth offers a natural laboratory for understanding coastal sustainability, marine conservation, and the blue economy.
   • National Marine Park: Leverage our location within the UK’s first National Marine Park for hands-on fieldwork, case studies, and networking opportunities that no other university can offer.
   • Real-World Projects: Engage with local, national, and international partners on tangible sustainability projects, applying your learning to solve complex problems.
3. A Future-Focused Curriculum
   • Interdisciplinary Approach: Master the principles of sustainability by integrating science, policy, and economics. You will learn to think in systems and develop holistic solutions.
   • Impact Assessment: Learn the tools to measure and manage the environmental and social impacts of projects and policies.
   • Energy Transition: Analyse the challenges and opportunities of shifting to a low-carbon global energy system.
   • Marine Science for Sustainability: Understand the critical role of our oceans in climate regulation and sustainable development.
   • Tailored to Your Goals: Specialise your studies through a choice of optional modules and a dissertation project aligned with your career aspirations.
4. A Launchpad for a Global Career
   • High-Impact Careers: Graduates will be equipped for influential roles in government, international NGOs, corporate sustainability (ESG), environmental consultancy, and academia.
   • Global Network: Join a diverse and ambitious cohort of students from around the world, that can help build a professional network.
   • A Flagship Qualification: A degree from this flagship programme will be a mark of distinction, signalling to employers that you possess elite training in sustainability leadership.

Who is this Course For?
This programme is designed for ambitious graduates and professionals who want to lead change, including:
• Recent Graduates from Environmental Science, Marine science, Geography, Economics, Politics, and Business backgrounds seeking to specialise in the most critical field of our time.
• Working Professionals in industry, government, or the third sector aiming to pivot their careers or upskill to take on senior sustainability roles.
• Future Researchers looking to build a strong, interdisciplinary foundation for doctoral studies.