MSc in Science for Sustainable Development, 120 credits

Degree: Master of Science in Environmental Science.

The two-year MSc in Science for Sustainable Development is an interdisciplinary master’s programme comprising both theoretical and empirical studies in natural sciences, technology and social sciences. The focus is on the global environment and socio-technological issues such as climate change or the availability of water and energy. Our aim is to help guide their development towards socially appropriate ends.

Your career goals may bridge academic disciplines and require expertise in multiple areas. Few universities offer such a broad perspective across disciplines in Environmental Science as LiU does. Master studies in Science for Sustainable development will strengthen your academic experience and it will boost your professional career.

Issues of sustainability are inherently complex and constantly changing. It is therefore crucial to address these issues from an interdisciplinary perspective. The programme is therefore linked to the internationally renowned milieu for environmental research at the Department of Thematic Studies (TEMA), LiU. Courses are designed to provide deeper knowledge in the relevant fields, and at the same time broaden the students’ perspective on questions and challenges related to sustainable development. Students also learn how to use relevant analytical tools for interdisciplinary studies of environmental change.

Climate science and policy is one important focus of the programme, since successful mitigation of and adaptation to climate change is closely linked to the possibility of achieving sustainable development. Two other main directions of the programme are linked to energy and water resources management. Another important focus is the understanding of biogeochemical and ecological processes that are fundamental for life on earth. As well as that we look at how humans affect these processes, e.g. through resource utilization. These aspects will be integrated in all parts of the programme.

The interdisciplinary programme draws on recent research from a number of disciplines such as: environmental science, sociology, economics, history, geography etc. Environmental, social and economic aspects of water and energy- the three ‘pillars’ of sustainability - as well as links between these are also studied. We tackle these issues in other contexts as well, including demographic, political and technological change, production of scientific knowledge and economic globalisation. The programme is also based on recent research and analytical frameworks from the fields of science and technology studies.

To complete the degree students must follow a combination of course-work and the preparation of an individual thesis. The master’s thesis is an important part of the programme allowing students to choose the area they want to develop in, based on own interest and with support from on-going relevant research.

The programme is offered by two of the units at The Department of Thematic Studies (TEMA): Water and Environmental Studies and Technology and Social Change.  It also involves collaboration and exchange with other European universities through the European Inter-University Association on Society, Science and Technology (ESST).

Information about the ESST association

The International MSc in Science for Sustainable Development is offered in cooperation with the European Inter-University Association on Society, Science and Technology (ESST). Membership in ESST involves collaboration and exchange with 17 other European universities.

Students in the programme may take courses and thesis work at another European university participating in ESST. Similar opportunities for studying at Linköping University on an exchange basis are offered to students from other universities that take part in the programme.

Membership in ESST is a key asset for the programme. In addition to providing broader opportunities for students international collaboration within ESST ensures that the master’s programme will be of high academic quality and in line with current research. The ESST website provides information about the ESST association and its members, the master programme (curriculum, thesis guidelines, etc.), ongoing research project, and alumni. Students are encouraged to make use of the ESST website, since this is the main source of information concerning second semester specializations within ESST. It also provides complete information about the ESST calendar and procedures for thesis evaluation.

Employment and career opportunities

The programme aims at preparing students to work with issues regarding sustainable development in international and national agencies, universities, municipalities, non-governmental organisations and international corporations. The programme also prepares those students who want to pursue doctoral studies (PhD) in related fields.

Specific requirements

A relevant background for the programme is a degree in either natural sciences, social sciences, health sciences, humanities or engineering that relates to environmental, social or economic aspects of sustainable development.

Each applicant must enclose a Letter of Intent written in English, explaining why they want to study this programme, and a summary of their bachelor's essay or project. If applicants hold a degree that does not include a bachelor's essay or project, their Letter of Intent should describe previous studies and any academic activities that are related to the master's programme applied for.

Send the Letter of Intent and other supporting documents to University Admissions in Sweden, FE 1, SE-833 83 Stroemsund, Sweden.

Read more about entry requirements and the application process

Interview with professor Björn Ola Linnér