Study sustainability abroad

Now, more than ever, countries around the world must protect and preserve their natural environments and resources. As a sustainability student, you’ll consider the threats faced by our planet and explore potential solutions and strategies for a more sustainable future.

Sustainability is a subject that involves branches of science, geography, economics, and anthropology. You’ll be tasked with applying the theoretical principles and practices of sustainability to real-life scenarios and challenges. You’ll evaluate government policies and the economic, human, and environmental consequences of any proposed plans.

By studying abroad, you’ll see how issues of sustainability vary across the globe. You’ll encounter new environments, landscapes, and ecosystems that will broaden your horizons and give you a global perspective of the field. You’ll be part of projects that make a real difference to local communities, including those relating to clean water, renewable energy, and waste management.

The majority of sustainability programs are offered as either a BA or a BSc. These courses cover similar ground, but a BSc will involve more independent research and scientific analysis. Bachelor’s programs are usually studied over three or four years, depending on the university. Most undergraduate sustainability courses around the world will be accredited by a professional body, like the Institute for Environmental Management and Assessment (IEAMA).

In the US, a sustainability major will last for a minimum of four years. In line with the liberal arts model, you’ll first complete two years of general education studies before specializing in sustainability-specific modules in your final two years.

Most universities will strongly encourage you to participate in a placement year or a year abroad. These experiences will support you to grow both professionally and personally.

After finishing your bachelor’s degree, you can go on to study a postgraduate qualification. A master’s in sustainability usually takes one or two years of work. Following this, a PhD takes an average of five years to complete.

Teaching will mainly be made up of lectures, seminars, workshops, hands-on laboratories, field trips, and tutorials. This mixture will provide you will a sound theoretical and practical comprehension of the field. Assessment typically takes the form of exams, coursework, presentations, and practical projects.

What’s covered in sustainability programs will vary slightly from one university to another. You’ll have plenty of elective modules to choose from, but you’ll probably study these core topic areas too:

• Sustainable practices and principles
• Sustainable futures
• Studying the environment
• Sustainable development
• Environmental policy, politics, and governance
• Ecology and ecosystems
• Managing biodiversity
• Climate change

Governments, organizations, and businesses are always looking for ways to reduce their negative impact on the environment and improve sustainability. As such, your skills, knowledge, and expertise will be in high demand across both public and private sectors. Here are some of the most common career paths pursued by sustainability graduates:

• Sustainability consultant
• Sustainability specialist
• Climate change analyst
• Energy consultant
• Corporate social responsibility manager
• Lecturer
• Researcher
• International aid/development worker

If you’re struggling to work out what your dream role is, it’s a good idea to undertake some work experience or an internship. Not only will you narrow down your interests and strengths, but you’ll also make useful professional connections and take your employability to the next level.