University of Washington

Overview

The Sustainable International Development program at the University of Washington provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how law and policy can foster responsible and sustainable growth worldwide. This Master's program emphasizes critical areas such as global health, food security, environmental sustainability, and international trade, preparing students to tackle real-world development challenges through informed governance, human rights advocacy, and corporate accountability.

What you'll study

Core themes of the curriculum include:

• Rule of law, human rights, and governance
• Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2030
• Legal approaches to poverty alleviation
• Global environmental protections and sustainability law
• Corporate responsibility, sustainability, and accountability
• Indigenous peoples’ rights and related legal frameworks
• Policy and legal strategies for sustainable development

Learning approach: Students engage in seminar-style courses, legal analyses, and policy discussions that enable them to develop expertise. Electives may be selected according to individual professional interests, including areas such as human rights, environmental protection, and corporate sustainability.

Entry requirements

To be considered for admission, applicants typically need to meet the following academic criteria:

• A minimum GPA of 3.0

English language proficiency: Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through accepted tests such as the Duolingo English Test or TOEFL.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Sustainable International Development program are well-equipped to pursue a diverse range of careers in various sectors. Potential paths include roles in governmental and international organizations, non-profit agencies focused on development, environmental consultancy, corporate sustainability, and legal practices that specialize in human rights and environmental law. The skills and knowledge gained from this program enable graduates to make impactful contributions to sustainable development efforts globally.