Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Masters in Sustainable Development
Uppsala, Sweden
Master degree
DURATION
2 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
15 Jan 2026
EARLIEST START DATE
Aug 2026
TUITION FEES
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
This programme has an interdisciplinary approach and combines advanced courses concerning sustainable development, including both theoretical and practical courses within natural resource use, society and the environment, and energy-water-food.
Uppsala University and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) have jointly created the Master's programme in sustainable development to offer higher education on complex problems facing humanity and the planet, and challenges for sustainable futures. Students at the programme are from more than twenty countries, with background in social- and natural science, civil engineering, economics and law, all highly committed to sustainability issues.
With a Master’s degree in environmental science you will have in-depth knowledge of the interaction between ecological, social and economic factors. You will be able to start your career as a consultant, manager, or decision maker in the private or public sector, or possibly as a teacher. You will also be able to continue your studies towards a PhD and a scientific career.
The program starts with a review of different approaches to sustainable development in natural and social sciences. You will be equipped with a number of analytical and quantitative tools appropriate for assessing and managing sustainable development. These are then applied to interdisciplinary case studies where you will work with students from other disciplines. You choose optional courses in the third term within the profile of your Bachelor’s degree. The master thesis is written during the fourth and final term.
The degree offers the prospect of a job as a decision maker in the private or public sector, a teacher or a scientist. Examples of job opportunities in the private sector are the automobile construction and IT sectors, and a range of non-governmental organisations. Other potential employers are public agencies such as environmental protection agencies and local and regional authorities, owing to their need to implement sustainability targets set by central government. The studies will also form an excellent basis for pursuing PhD studies and academic research.