Maastricht University

Overview

The MSc in Sustainability Science, Policy and Society at Maastricht University equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle sustainability challenges at the intersection of science, policy, and society. The program emphasizes conducting sustainability assessments and crafting evidence-based strategies for decision-making, offering specializations in either Policy for Sustainability or Business for Sustainability.

• Degree: MSc (Master of Science)
• Programme focus: Sustainability science, policy, governance, and society
• Specialisations: Policy for Sustainability or Business for Sustainability
• Delivery: On-campus (Maastricht University)
• Credits: Typically 60 ECTS for the full master’s programme
• Duration: 1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time)
• Language of instruction: English
• Application: Check the university’s website for current intake dates and deadlines
• Start dates: Typically September

Note: Specific duration, ECTS, and tuition fees may vary; please verify on the Maastricht University programme page.

What you'll study

The MSc program integrates core courses in sustainability governance and assessment with a thesis project, allowing students to choose a specialization that aligns with their career goals: Policy for Sustainability or Business for Sustainability.

Core learning components

• Politics of Climate Change
• Sustainable Development
• Sustainability Governance
• Methodology for Sustainability Assessment
• Thesis Research and Writing

Thesis

The program culminates in a master's thesis based on an independent research project, allowing students to apply sustainability science and assessment methodologies to real-world governance or policy/business issues and present their findings to both academic and non-academic audiences.

Specialisation pathway

Students can tailor their studies through course selection and thesis topics to focus on either policy-oriented or business-oriented sustainability applications.

Entry requirements

Applicants to the MSc in Sustainability Science, Policy and Society must meet Maastricht University’s general admission criteria along with specific academic and English language requirements.

Academic background

• A relevant bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in fields such as sustainability studies, environmental sciences, political science, public policy, economics, governance, social sciences, or related disciplines.
• Solid foundational skills in academic writing and research methods appropriate for a master’s level program.

English language proficiency

• IELTS: minimum overall score of 6.5
• TOEFL iBT: minimum overall score of 90

Additional documents

• Passport picture
• Copy of a valid passport or EU/EEA identity card
• Official bachelor’s transcript (signed and stamped); certified translation if not in English
• Copy of diploma (if already obtained)
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Motivation letter
• Relevant information on education, extracurricular activities, internships, and (professional) experience

Standardised tests

Depending on their background, some applicants may be required to submit additional test scores. If applicable, please follow the instructions from Maastricht University for submission.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSc in Sustainability Science, Policy and Society will be well-prepared for careers in various sectors including government, non-profit organizations, private industry, and academia, focusing on roles that address sustainability challenges and contribute to policy development and organizational strategies.