Why study this course?
You will explore the tensions and synergies between different theories and approaches to sustainable development. You will engage with sustainable development policy and practice on different scales (local, national, and international), and consider alternative frameworks and trajectories of sustainability – from broad-scale ecosystem approaches to decolonial agendas.
Coursework components will help you to develop and demonstrate writing and analysis skills for different audiences. Optional modules allow you to explore topics such as capitalism and development, energy politics, infrastructure and population change, which will further develop the interdisciplinary character of your studies.
Highlights
- Introduces different conceptualizations of sustainability and enables students to navigate an urgent and contested field.
- Rooted in critical interdisciplinary social science, this course addresses social and political responses to climate science and offers a remarkable richness and depth compared with conventional single-subject degrees.
- Core courses first use Development and then Nature as entry points into Sustainable Development. We teach you to analyse academic concepts and debates before shifting focus to research-led policy.
- Our MSc focuses on the relationships between academia, policy, and society, and teaches writing for both academic and policy audiences.
Teaching
Delivered through seminars, workshops, lectures, tutorials, and independent study.
Assessment
A mix of essays, reports, policy briefs, presentations, practical exercises, reflective exercises, and exams.
Modules
The MSc is structured around two compulsory taught modules: Interrogating Sustainable Development in Semester 1 and Sustainable development: from principles to practice in Semester 2.
Alongside compulsory modules, students will complete a number of optional modules (normally two per semester). Optional modules allow you to shape the degree around your own personal and professional interests.
For more details, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the module catalogue. The modules are examples from previous academic years and may be subject to change before you start your course.
What it will lead to
Careers
The University of St Andrews’ global reputation makes its graduates highly valued by employers. The MSc in Global Sustainable Development provides subject knowledge and applied skills for a fast-growing sector.
Our MSc is relevant to a range of career paths in government and public bodies, non-governmental organisations and charities, and the private sector. We have dedicated careers support built into the course.
In addition to broadening your subject knowledge and applying established techniques of research and enquiry, you will develop and demonstrate essential skills such as:
- critical thinking and creativity
- analysis and appraisal
- writing for different audiences
- problem solving and decision making
- personal leadership and project management
- interpersonal communication and team-working
The University also offers two awards for all students, known as the Saints Skills Awards. You can develop a range of skills through the Skills Builder Award or learn how to articulate them effectively through the Skills Spotlight Award. These skills are highly valued by employers and the awards are a good addition to your CV.
Further study
St Andrews offers a vibrant and stimulating research environment. One of the great strengths of a St Andrews research degree is the collegiate atmosphere which enables access to expertise beyond your formal supervisors and the ability to conduct interdisciplinary research.
Research students are supported by a supervisory team throughout their studies and are assessed by means of a substantial thesis of original research.
Why St Andrews?
Alumni
When you graduate you become a member of the University's worldwide alumni community. Benefit from access to alumni clubs, the Saint Connect networking and mentoring platform, and careers support.
“Study at St Andrews has given me the opportunity to deepen my understanding of the principles and fundamentals of sustainability within a robust and engaging academic environment. The interdisciplinary nature of the programme stands out, covering a wide range of topics from global development theories to sustainability policies, and equipping students with a robust foundation in environmental, social and economic sustainability management.”
- Ghana
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Entry requirements
- A 2.1 Honours undergraduate degree. If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements.
- English language proficiency. See English language tests and qualifications.
The MSc in Global Sustainable Development welcomes applicants from a range of disciplinary backgrounds including, but not limited to:
- biology
- business or management
- economics
- environmental history
- environmental science
- geography
- mathematics
- politics
- sociology.
The qualifications listed are indicative minimum requirements for entry. Some academic Schools will ask applicants to achieve significantly higher marks than the minimum. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University considers all aspects of every application including, where applicable, the writing sample, personal statement, and supporting documents.
Application requirements
- A CV that includes your personal details with a history of your education and employment to date
- A personal statement explaining:
- why you have applied for this course
- how the course relates to your personal or professional ambitions
- how your academic and professional background show you have the skills needed to work effectively at postgraduate level
- A sample of your own, single-authored academic written work, such as an extract from a previous project, essay, or undergraduate dissertation (maximum 1000 words)
- Two original signed academic references on headed paper
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
For more guidance, see supporting documents and references for postgraduate taught programmes.
English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you may need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. See approved English language tests and scores for this course.
Fees and funding
- UK: £14,850
- Rest of the world: £29,990
Before we can begin processing your application, a payment of an application fee of £50 is required. In some instances, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Details of this, along with information on our tuition fees, can be found on the postgraduate fees and funding page.
Scholarships and funding
We are committed to supporting you through your studies, regardless of your financial circumstances. You may be eligible for scholarships, discounts or other support:
Contact us
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Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the course archive.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online.
Page last updated: 17 March 2025
