Master in Climate and Sustainability Politics
Lille, France
DURATION
2 Years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
01 May 2025*
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2025
TUITION FEES
EUR 7,300 / per year **
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* Dates are subject to change
** Bachelor’s and Master’s fees: €3,555 and €12,315 depending on revenue and household composition.
Key Summary
Online Answers Day - 10 December, 18:00 CET
Introduction
The world is facing unprecedented ecological crises, notably climate change, that will require us to transform the way we organise our societies, institutions, economies, and ways of production and consumption. This transformation entails rethinking existing relationships between people, politics, and the environment. However, the interconnected nature of our globalised society, the scale of action required, the number of actors involved, and the interest of many in maintaining the status quo greatly complicate matters and potentially jeopardise our collective efforts for sustainability. Indeed, these crises are systemic and addressing them often seems impossible.
The Master in Climate and Sustainability Politicsexamines what a transition to a just and sustainable future might look like and how we can work to achieve it in our own communities and around the world. The program provides students with a deep understanding of:
- The complex and interconnected nature of the environment and society,
- Existing governance practices and institutions in this field, and
- The approaches and mechanisms by which we can transform them to become more socially and environmentally just.
In doing so, it gives students the analytical and research skills to critically evaluate existing policies and politics from a sustainability lens and provides them with the expertise necessary to envision concrete, effective solutions in a variety of situations – locally and globally.
The program studies sustainability challenges from both a grassroots and global perspective. Our curriculum begins with developing students’ analytical skills and exposing them to the main paradigms, theories, and concepts used for making sense of climate and sustainability issues in our interconnected world. Through project-based learning, case studies, study trips and an internship, they will then apply what they have learned and gain practical experience that will help them play a part in our transition to a more just and sustainable future. This is facilitated via ESPOL’s interdisciplinary and international environment, which brings together professors, practitioners, and students with different backgrounds from around the world. Furthermore, the University’s proximity to Paris and Brussels allows for experiential learning in key European capitals and sustainability hubs.
The Master in Climate and Sustainability Politicsprepares students for careers in climate and sustainability policy in a variety of contexts, working with the many institutions and stakeholders involved in the green transformation: both locally and globally and in the public, private, and academic spheres. We aim to prepare students to be changemakers, wherever their career destination may be.
Why study at European School of Political and Social Sciences
Choosing ESPOL means joining a dynamic, internationally recognised institution committed to addressing today’s most pressing global issues. Here's why ESPOL stands out:
- Global Perspective: Our programmes are designed to address key international challenges, such as climate change, sustainability, governance, and security, making them ideal for globally minded students.
- English-Taught Programmes: All Master's programmes are fully taught in English, providing an inclusive environment for students from around the world.
- Innovative Curriculum: ESPOL’s interdisciplinary approach combines political science, economics, law, and environmental studies, ensuring a cutting-edge education that prepares students to shape global policies.
- European Hub: Located in Lille, France, ESPOL is at the heart of Europe, offering proximity to EU institutions and a wealth of professional opportunities with international organisations, think tanks, and NGOs.
- Career-Focused: With a strong network of alumni and partners, ESPOL provides pathways to internships and careers in top international organisations, governmental agencies, and environmental NGOs.
- Vibrant Community: A diverse student body and rich campus life, including debates, conferences, and cultural events, create a stimulating environment that fosters both personal and professional growth.
ESPOL equips you to become a leader and change maker, ready to impact the world for the better.
Ideal Students
The ideal student for the Master's in Climate and Sustainability Politics is someone deeply passionate about sustainable development and eager to address the urgent environmental challenges facing the world today.
While a prior background in political science or public policy is not required, students with academic experience in related fields such as environmental sciences, agronomy, or sustainability are particularly encouraged to apply. Most importantly, candidates should possess a strong motivation to become change makers, committed to driving meaningful change in their chosen fields. They should be ready to engage critically with global sustainability issues and contribute to shaping policies that lead to a more sustainable future.
Program Outcome
Graduates of the Master's in Climate and Sustainability Politics will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to become leaders in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation.
The interdisciplinary approach of the programme provides a deep understanding of climate diplomacy, sustainable development policies, and environmental governance, preparing students to develop innovative solutions to pressing global sustainability challenges.
With practical experience gained through internships and collaboration with international organisations, graduates are well-prepared for careers in environmental NGOs, governmental agencies, international institutions, and the private sector. They will emerge as influential change-makers, capable of shaping policies, advocating for environmental justice, and leading sustainability initiatives worldwide.
Admissions
Curriculum
Core Courses
- Climate Governance
- Introduction to Green Political Thought
- Global Development
- Global Environmental Governance
- Sustainable Living, Sustainable Society
- Trade and Sustainability
- Theories of Sustainability Governance and Transformation
- European Sustainability Policies
Research Courses
- Introduction to Research Design
- Political Science Research Methods
- Statistics and the Political Sociology of Quantification
- Academic Writing Workshop
- Master Dissertation Colloquium
Optional Courses
- Critical Approaches to International Relations
- Public Policy Analysis
- Global Justice
- International Migration
- European Social Policy
- African Politics, Capitalism and Global Commons
+ intensive language modules + career development workshops + master’s dissertation ESPOL makes every effort to ensure that course information is accurate and up-to-date. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change
Scholarships and Funding
Féron-Vrau Scholarship
This scholarship finances the first year of a Bachelor’s degree for 20 successful applicants, renewable for years 2 and 3, provided that students meet specific criteria (class attendance, maintaining a satisfactory overall average, not retaking a year, and active involvement in school or community life). French or foreign high school students eligible for CROUS scholarship levels 6 and 7 (with a family income between €0 and €50,000) are eligible.
Amount: Varies based on need and eligibility.
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ESPOL Scholarship
Available to current and future students enrolling in the 2nd or 3rd year of a Bachelor’s degree, or the 1st or 2nd year of a Master’s degree at ESPOL. The scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence (minimum average grade of 15/20) and alignment of the student’s career plan with ESPOL’s courses. It is compatible with other scholarships but cannot be combined with those covering tuition fees. Students with disabilities may also apply, even if they do not meet all criteria.
Amount: Between €1,000 and €2,000.
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Scholarships Based on Social Criteria
A higher education grant aimed at students facing financial difficulties. This scholarship is designed to supplement family support and offers significant financial aid to help cover the costs of student life, promoting equal access to education.
Amount: Varies based on financial need.
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France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship
This prestigious scholarship aims to attract the best international students to pursue Master's or PhD studies in French institutions. It includes funding for tuition, monthly living allowances, international transport, and other benefits like accommodation assistance. Applicants must be foreign nationals under 30 for Master's level, with priority given to students from emerging countries.
Amount: Monthly amounts vary depending on the level of study and include additional services.
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Other Scholarships
There are many scholarships available based on your level of education, personal situation, and country of origin. Students are encouraged to explore opportunities through platforms like Campus France’s Campus Bourse search engine or through their home country’s government services.
Amount: Varies based on the scholarship.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
- Public administration at national and subnational levels: ministries, regional and local authorities, but also other public administration agencies recruit experts in public policy;
- International and European organisations: European Commission, European Environment Agency; UNFCCC and other UN organizations;
- NGOs, Think Tanks, trade unions, interest groups and lobbies open to recruit experts with backgrounds in political science and international politics;
- Businesses are increasingly recruiting people qualified in climate and sustainability affairs;
- Academic career: students graduating from our MA can also access PhD programmes in order to pursue an academic career.