Program overview
This international, interdisciplinary Master’s programme trains students to contribute actively to societal transitions toward sustainability. Taught in English within the field of environmental science, the degree combines rigorous research training with practical intervention strategies. The curriculum emphasizes methodologically sound problem-solving in complex, inter- and transdisciplinary settings so graduates can tackle real-world sustainability challenges.
What you will gain
Students develop the ability to understand interactions among natural, social and economic systems, and to identify and analyse “wicked problems” in sustainable development from multiple disciplinary perspectives. The programme builds strong scientific skills—research design, appropriate methods and instruments, independent investigation—and teaches students to communicate and apply their findings in inter- and transdisciplinary teams. Social and professional skills such as academic writing, debate, conflict management, teamwork and project management are explicitly cultivated so graduates can support societal change processes.
Career and further study
The programme prepares graduates for doctoral studies and careers in scientific research. Its societal orientation also opens pathways beyond academia: alumni can pursue roles in the private sector, public administration (EU, national, regional and local levels), consultancies and NGOs. Over time graduates are expected to move into managerial positions where integrating knowledge and policy and leading change management around complex societal transformations are key responsibilities.
Key learning outcomes (concise)
This joint programme is organised across the partner universities and designed to give students a broad foundation in sustainability followed by focused specialisation, integrative practice and an independent master’s thesis. The first semester (home university in Leipzig) centres on “Fundamentals in Sustainable Development” (30 ECTS), introducing sustainability concepts, current challenges, and research and intervention approaches from multiple disciplinary perspectives. At Leipzig this block is delivered through three mandatory 10‑ECTS modules: Basics in Economic Sciences, Basics in Social Sciences, and Basics in Sustainable Development. Students enrolled at partner universities (Hiroshima, Graz or Venice) take equivalent foundational classes at their respective home institutions.
The second semester is a mobility semester devoted to “Specialisation” (30 ECTS), where students deepen knowledge and methodological skills in a chosen area of sustainable development. Leipzig outbound students select one specialisation track offered by partner universities (Basel, Hiroshima, Graz, Utrecht or Venice). Incoming students from Hiroshima, Graz or Venice who come to Leipzig for mobility can choose between Environmental and Resource Economics (ERE) or Environmental and Resource Management (ERM). Available specialisation modules include Sustainable Energy Economics (10 ECTS), Environmental and Biodiversity Economics (10 ECTS), Climate Economics (10 ECTS), Water Resources Management (10 ECTS), Energy Engineering and Management (10 ECTS), Landscape Management in European Context (5 ECTS) and Land Management in Urban Context (5 ECTS).
The third semester (Leipzig) is the “Integration phase” (30 ECTS), focused on applying scientific and social skills to inter‑ and transdisciplinary case studies. Core components are an interdisciplinary/transdisciplinary case study (15 ECTS) and Project Management and Communication Skills (5 ECTS), plus at least 10 ECTS of further specialisation electives. Elective options include Sustainability Assessment of the “Energiewende” (5 ECTS), LCA and Sustainability Assessment of Bioeconomy (5 ECTS), Natural Resource Use and Conservation Economics (10 ECTS), Modelling in Resource Management (10 ECTS), Socio‑Economic Aspects of Urban Development (10 ECTS), Entrepreneurship Management (10 ECTS) and selected modules from other faculties. Students may also opt for an additional mobility semester at partner institutions (including TERI University in India), noting that extra tuition fees can apply.
The fourth semester (home university, Leipzig) is reserved for the independent Master’s thesis (30 ECTS). Overall learning outcomes include a multidisciplinary understanding of sustainability challenges, specialised methodological competence in a chosen field, practical experience of inter/transdisciplinary problem solving, and enhanced project management and communication skills necessary for research, policy or professional practice in sustainable development.
Key curriculum requirements and credits
This programme is aimed at applicants who already hold a relevant bachelor's-level degree and can demonstrate strong academic and professional potential in sustainability and environmental topics. Applications are evaluated on academic merit, subject background, personal motivation and practical experience, with some additional institution-specific requirements.
International applicants should be prepared to show proof of high-level English proficiency and, where applicable, relevant post-graduate work experience required by one partner university.
Winter Semester (International)
15 March 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 March 2026
Graduates are prepared for academic research (including progression to a PhD) and for professional roles that require integrating knowledge across disciplines. Career paths include positions in scientific research, the private sector, public administration at EU, national, regional and local levels, consultancy firms and non-governmental organisations.
Over time, alumni can move into managerial roles—particularly those that bridge knowledge and policy or lead change management initiatives related to complex societal transitions toward sustainability.