MSc Global Sustainability Solutions

The MSc Global Sustainability Solutions at the University of Exeter provides students with a practical and interdisciplinary learning experience focused on addressing real-world sustainability challenges. Students develop valuable skills through project-based learning, workshops, collaborative activities, research-led teaching, and opportunities to work with external organisations. Supported by the University’s Global Systems Institute, the programme allows students to engage with current sustainability research and explore solutions to challenges such as climate change, environmental change, and sustainable development.

Students gain practical experience through a combination of applied projects, digital tools, research opportunities, and professional engagement:

• Solutions Project (Internship): Students can choose an internship-based Solutions Project, allowing them to work on a real sustainability challenge with an external organisation and apply their knowledge in a professional environment.

• Industry and organisation engagement: Students have opportunities to work on sustainability-related challenges connected with organisations such as the Met Office, ARUP, Lloyds, Environment Agency, National Trust, and Galapagos Conservation Trust, gaining insight into how sustainability solutions are developed in practice.

• Digital tools and data analysis skills: Through optional modules such as Coding for Spatial Analysis and Open Source GIS, students develop technical skills in using digital approaches to analyse environmental data and sustainability issues.

• Collaborative group projects: Students take part in group discussions, workshops, and team-based activities where they work with peers from different academic backgrounds to develop solutions for complex global challenges.

• Practical assessment methods: Students complete a range of applied assessments, including project reports, policy briefings, white papers, interactive infographics, documentary projects, and reflective journals, helping them build professional communication and problem-solving skills.

• Global Systems Institute: Students benefit from being part of the Global Systems Institute community, engaging with researchers and interdisciplinary experts working on global sustainability challenges.

• Research-led learning: Students learn from academics involved in sustainability, climate science, and environmental research, allowing them to explore current developments and apply research findings to practical challenges.

• Work placement opportunities: Through the Sustainability in Practice (Work Placement) module, students can gain professional experience by working with organisations and applying sustainability principles in workplace settings.

• Environment and Sustainability Institute facilities: Students benefit from the University of Exeter’s wider sustainability research environment, including facilities and research centres focused on understanding and solving environmental challenges.

The MSc Global Sustainability Solutions at the University of Exeter prepares graduates to develop and implement solutions for some of the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges. With skills in sustainability analysis, systems thinking, research, policy evaluation, and stakeholder engagement, students are well prepared for careers such as sustainability consultant, sustainability analyst, ESG analyst, sustainability manager, policy advisor, and carbon project manager. The programme combines academic expertise with practical experience, helping graduates build the confidence and knowledge needed to work across environmental, government, consulting, and corporate sectors.

Students benefit from a range of career support services, industry connections, and professional development opportunities:

• Career support from University of Exeter Career Zone: Students receive access to career guidance, one-to-one advice, employability workshops, CV and application support, interview preparation, mentoring opportunities, and resources to help them successfully transition into employment.

• Industry and organisation connections: Through sustainability projects and internship opportunities, students can gain experience working with organisations such as the Met Office, ARUP, Lloyds, Environment Agency, National Trust, and Galapagos Conservation Trust, applying sustainability knowledge to real-world challenges.

• Graduate career opportunities: Graduates can progress into roles including sustainability consultant, sustainability analyst, ESG analyst, sustainability manager, environmental policy advisor, carbon project manager, and sustainability project officer across public, private, and non-profit organisations.

• Development of professional skills: The programme strengthens skills that are highly valued by employers, including systems thinking, research, problem-solving, teamwork, communication, project management, and the ability to create professional sustainability reports and policy recommendations.

• Global Systems Institute network: Students benefit from being part of the University of Exeter’s Global Systems Institute community, connecting with researchers, sustainability experts, and organisations working on global environmental challenges.

• Graduate outcomes and employability support: The University supports students in preparing for their careers through employability activities, alumni connections, career events, and opportunities to engage with professionals and potential employers.

• Long-term value of Exeter’s sustainability reputation: The University of Exeter’s strong international reputation in sustainability research adds value to the degree, helping graduates stand out when applying for roles in sustainability, environmental management, and climate-related sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Global Sustainability Solutions, students can continue their studies through a PhD or research-based programme in areas such as sustainability science, climate change, environmental policy, global systems, environmental management, or sustainable development. Graduates can also pursue professional certifications and specialist training in areas such as ESG, carbon management, climate policy, and sustainability leadership to further enhance their career opportunities.