Course summary
How will we tackle ongoing global challenges? Join our MSc programme – Global Sustainable Development. Despite progress in many aspects of global development over recent decades, about 735 million people experienced hunger in 2022, an increase of 122 million since 2019. Degradation of our natural resources – land, water, forests, and biodiversity – continues at alarming rates. These challenges are exacerbated by climate change and violent conflicts in many parts of the world. Tackling these challenges and ensuring a better future will require sustainable development and Transformative Change (TC) – change that is disruptive, systemic, occurs at relatively large scales, and involves a reconfiguration of technology, economy, institutions, and society. Our Global Sustainable Development MSc will provide you with an in-depth understanding of Development Studies theory and practice, including different conceptions of human, societal and environmental changes. Drawing on real-world-lessons from various domains (economic, environmental, social, and institutional), sectors (agri-food, energy, education, and financial services) and contexts (developing and developed countries), you will develop the capacity to critically discuss, analyse, and evaluate sustainable development and TC. You will develop hands-on skills in sustainable development design and planning, project management, research, and impact evaluation methods, and familiarity with systems modelling and relevant software. The MSc will enhance your communication, networking, and community-engagement skills. What you should know about this course
- This MSc course is run by the Natural Resources Institute – a specialist organisation with a focus on development-related research, teaching, consultancy, and community engagement
- Receive personalised teaching from a team of world-leading researchers and development practitioners with experience of working with the World Bank, UN, CGIAR, NGOs, etc
- NRI’s extensive global networks & ongoing research projects in 30+ countries will provide you with opportunities for practitioner-based learning
- You will receive one-to-one care and mentoring and be part of a vibrant and diverse postgraduate student community
- Course content is focused not only on what the world’s sustainable development challenges and potential solutions are, but also on ‘how to make changes happen’.
Modules
All degree courses are made up of modules – individual units of study on different topics. Some modules are compulsory; others can be chosen from a list of options. Our website has full details of your degree structures, module content, and how each module is assessed. The direct link to this course on our website, can be found at the bottom of this page.
Assessment method
Students are assessed through a combination of assessment methods depending on the modules chosen. Some courses may also include 'practice' assignments, which help you monitor progress and do not count towards your final grade. Our website has full details of your degree structures, module content, and how each module is assessed. The direct link to this course on our website, can be found at the bottom of this page.
Entry requirements
An undergraduate (honours) degree at 2.2, or above, in Development Studies, Geography, Environmental Studies, Agriculture, Economics, Social Sciences, Business Studies or a relevant subject. Applicants who do not have the above may be considered on a case-by-case basis provided they possess appropriate work experience. In such cases, applicants will need to submit a portfolio of evidence and participate in an interview.
English language requirements
We accept a wide range of English language qualifications. For our English entry requirements, please click on the link below.
https://www.gre.ac.uk/international/help-and-support/courses
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| Channel Islands | £11800 | Year 1 |
| Republic of Ireland | £11800 | Year 1 |
| England | £11800 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £11800 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £11800 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £11800 | Year 1 |
| EU | £18700 | Year 1 |
| International | £18700 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
These fees are currently set for 2026/27 entry. For more information, please visit: https://www.gre.ac.uk/finance/fees
Sponsorship information
We understand that the transition into postgraduate study can be confusing when it comes to finances. The University of Greenwich has a wide range of bursaries, scholarships and other financial support measures to support students that require it most. More information can be found on our website at www.greenwich.ac.uk/finance/funding-your-studies
Provider information
University of Greenwich
Old Royal Naval College
Park Row
Greenwich
SE10 9LS