
Bachelor of Science in Global Sustainability Science
Utrecht, Netherlands
DURATION
3 Years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
01 May 2025*
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2025
TUITION FEES
EUR 16,484 / per year **
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* Non-EU/EEA students: 1 April 2025
** non-EU/EEA|EU/EEA: 14,525 EUR for institutional fee | dutch and other EU/EEA students: 2,601 EUR
Introduction
Sustainability is complicated. How can we find a way for both humans and nature to thrive alongside each other on our rapidly changing planet? By examining sustainability issues from different perspectives, at the local, regional, and global levels, you will learn how to create action for a just and greener future. As a critical thinker, you will not only learn to understand the theory but also acquire skills that can help make the transition to sustainability.
Your background
To prepare you for your future as a bridge builder, problem solver or change maker, Global Sustainability Science offers a well-balanced curriculum of courses in the natural sciences and social sciences, as well as interdisciplinary combination courses. There’s a reason for that. Natural sciences courses, such as Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry, give you insight into natural, biochemical and hydrological processes (like the water cycle) that keep the earth turning. Social sciences courses, such as Management, Economics, and Innovation, teach you how socio-economic processes contribute to solutions for sustainability challenges.
Interested in learning more?
Visit one of our (online) open days or sign up for a ‘Student for a Day’ to experience what it is like to study at Utrecht University
Curriculum
Year 1
You’ll dive into interdisciplinary sustainability studies, exploring key global challenges like water, food, and energy distribution, urban development, and population growth. Collaborative projects kick off from year one, allowing you to delve into natural and social dynamics at various levels. Through hands-on experiences, including fieldwork and research projects, you’ll develop skills in analysing complex systems and conducting scientific research. By the end of your first year, you'll engage in a multidisciplinary research project, gaining practical experience in fieldwork, data collection, and report writing, while also preparing to choose your track for the second year.
Year 2
In the second year, you'll have fewer mandatory courses, focusing instead on diverse statistical methods, philosophy of science, ethics, environmental communication, and behaviour. You'll delve into distinguishing between valid and pseudo-science, ethical considerations in sustainable development, and the factors influencing environmental behaviour and communication strategies. Additionally, you'll choose one of five tracks to deepen your understanding in a specific sustainability science theme:
- Water, Climate & Ecosystems
- Energy & Resources
- Sustainable & Healthy Food
- Governance & Societal Transformation
- Business & Innovation
Towards the end of the year, you'll collaborate with a team to write a report for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) on achieving a specific Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), exploring its interconnections with other SDGs. This project involves cooperation with UNEP and policymakers from approximately 45 countries, aiming to develop integrated national-level reports on the SDGs.
Year 3
In the first half of the third year, you'll deepen your understanding of your chosen track's theme. Then, you'll transition to practical work, collaborating with a team to advise real clients on sustainability issues. Clients may include NGOs, government agencies, or businesses, providing valuable opportunities to apply your knowledge and skills in real-world settings. Engaging with clients introduces a new dynamic to your studies, offering insights into your professionalism.
Your studies will culminate in writing your Bachelor's thesis, an individual research project addressing a current sustainability issue. Drawing on your program's knowledge and experience, you'll develop, implement, and report on a plan of action, showcasing your skills and expertise.
Throughout the entire programme, you will be working on a variety of group assignments, advising real clients on sustainability issues. Clients may include NGOs, government agencies, or businesses, providing valuable opportunities to apply your knowledge and skills in real-world settings.
Your studies will culminate in writing your Bachelor's thesis, an individual research project addressing a current sustainability issue. You can either choose to do this in the Netherlands or abroad.
Career Opportunities
Studying abroad
Studying abroad offers significant opportunities for both academic and personal growth. This programme allows you to spend up to six months studying in a foreign country through exchange programmes. Utrecht University partners with various universities worldwide, allowing you to remain enrolled at Utrecht University without paying tuition fees to the host institution. As a Global Sustainability Science student, exchange opportunities include the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) and Leuphana Universität Lüneburg, among others. These universities offer diverse sustainability courses that complement your programme.
After graduation
Many students decide to continue their studies by starting with an associated Master’s programme (MSc), such as Sustainable Development, Energy Science, Sustainable Business and Innovation, and Water Management for Climate Adaptation.
Governments and businesses increasingly prioritize sustainability, creating a high demand for individuals with your qualifications. This programme offers an excellent foundation for an international career, where you'll be admired for your versatility. Equipped with analytical skills and the ability to approach issues from multiple angles, you can make a significant impact by bridging gaps and finding solutions. Your expertise, clear communication, and teamwork skills make you invaluable to organisations with conflicting interests.
Managers seek consultants like you to develop sustainability policies or establish sustainable production chains. You may even start your sustainable ventures or pursue roles like 'Healthy Water Specialist' or 'Sustainable Business Inspirator'. Alternatively, you can contribute to sustainability as a researcher or scientist.