University of Padua

Overview

The Master’s programme in Management for Sustainable Firms at the University of Padua is a forward-thinking course designed to equip students with the skills necessary for sustainable management in today’s business landscape. This two-year programme integrates sustainability strategies with digital transformation, innovation, and data-driven decision-making, enabling future leaders to navigate the complexities of global markets and supply chains responsibly.

What you'll study

The curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of sustainable competitive practices in a global economy. In the first year, students focus on foundational topics such as strategy, business economics, accounting, and organisational management, all with an emphasis on sustainability transitions.

The second year allows students to specialise through three distinct study tracks:

• Smart Manufacturing: Explore lean management, sustainable manufacturing, supply chain management, and the application of machine learning in operations.
• Marketing and Digital Transformation: Focus on relational marketing, the economics of innovation, product-service innovation, and the use of quantitative methods and analytics.
• People and Organisation: Delve into talent management, diversity and inclusion, and performance management and compensation.

Each track includes an internship, elective courses, and a final thesis. The thesis component encourages students to merge sustainability with management through applied research or projects in partnership with industry stakeholders.

Entry requirements

Applicants are required to have a minimum of a three-year undergraduate degree or its equivalent. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in at least two of the following core academic areas:

• Management (e.g., strategy, marketing, operations, organisation, human resource management)
• Accounting & Finance (e.g., management accounting, auditing, control, corporate finance)
• Economics & Quantitative (e.g., microeconomics, macroeconomics, mathematics, statistics)

Only skills acquired during undergraduate studies will be taken into consideration.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Management for Sustainable Firms programme are well-prepared to take on leadership roles in various sectors, focusing on sustainable practices. Career opportunities may include positions in corporate sustainability, management consulting, supply chain management, and marketing, among others. The combination of sustainability and management expertise positions graduates to make a significant impact in their chosen fields.