Leadership for Sustainable Development

Overview

With increasing recognition of the impact of a world living beyond its means, the commitment to sustainable development to meet the needs of present generations without jeopardising those of future generations has never been more essential, particularly for organisations across the public and private sectors.



This innovative Masters programme is open to applicants from all subject backgrounds, and is designed to create leaders and sustainability professionals in all fields and subjects. The course will require a high level of independence, adaptability, engagement with both the University and external organisations, and a willingness to be challenged.



Programme content is designed to be holistic, so students will study at intermediate level the broad-ranging fields of leadership and management, environmental and sustainability science, social studies, and economics, amongst others, to prepare them for life as change agents in sustainable development. The course embraces personal choice of study where possible to enhance the students’ existing knowledge, experiences, and interests.



A key principle of the programme is the importance of Education for Sustainable Development, and students will complete the course as fully developed individuals with competency in critical-thinking, systems-thinking, interpersonal working, and much more. Modules are taught through action-based, experiential learning methods such as practicals, site visits, work placements and community-based learning consultancy projects, in addition to lectures and tutorials.

Year 1

Core Modules

• Skills for Sustainable Development (20 credits)

• Foundations for Sustainable Development (20 credits)

• Effective Leadership: Group Project (30 credits)

• Placement in Sustainable Development 2 (30 credits)

• Placement in Sustainable Development 1 (30 credits)

• Leadership and Management for Sustainable Development (20 credits)



Optional Modules

• Placement in Sustainable Development 3 (30 credits)

• Reflective Practice in Sustainable Development (30 credits)

Graduate

Normally a 2.2 Honours degree or above or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.



Applicants who do not meet the above academic requirements will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Submission of a portfolio and/or interview may be required.



The University's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy provides guidance on the assessment of experiential learning (RPEL). Please visit http://go.qub.ac.uk/RPLpolicy for more information.

Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 31st July 2024 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Application Portal against the programme application page.



How to Apply

Apply using our online Postgraduate Applications Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.

Students will be assessed through a variety of methods throughout the course.


This includes; research projects, group work, presentations, reports and essays, seminar contribution and reflective self-assessment.

1 year full-time.

Entry Year: 2024/25

Career Prospects

Introduction

This MSc will equip you to work in a variety of roles in both the private and public sector, here in Northern Ireland, and internationally. Our recent graduates have gone on to a wide range of roles such as; Climate Programme Manager: Action Resilience Officer for Climate: Communications and Engagement Specialist; Environmental Manager; Sustainability Consultant; Housing Development; Recycling Education Promotions Officer; International Development Volunteer; Marine Community Support Officer; Waste and Recycling Manager: Parliamentary Assistant and Environmental Consultant.