Global Governance and Sustainable Development MA

Why choose Global Governance and Sustainable Development MA at Middlesex?

Sustainable development involves the responsible use of environmental resources and the establishment of social and economic relations which enable that, through governance. Our master's degree equips you with analytical skills and deepens your understanding of sustainable development in theory, policy and practice and of global governance issues, approaches and instruments that pertain to sustainable development.

You will explore various approaches to how intergovernmental and national strategies, policies and projects – addressing issues such as climate change, food security and sustainable urban development – are formulated, implemented and evaluated.

Through a critical case study approach, you'll develop the skills to lead and manage change in a global environment whether in the private sector or with public or third-sector agencies

Learn from renowned international experts in global governance and sustainable development, including Professor Sarah Bradshaw, an expert in development and gender, and Dr Meri Juntti, an environmental policy specialist. Both academics use their impressive research portfolios to inform their teaching.

Take advantage of opportunities to apply for internship and work-based learning placements, in London or internationally at institutions such as the United Nations, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, and NGOs.

You can also participate in our Brief Cases at Middlesex partnership as your placement option, working on real industry briefs by The Heaven Company Ltd with feedback from industry representatives. Visit the Heaven Company Ltd.

Our international mix of students exposes you to a range of different cultural and national viewpoints, offering valuable insights and a genuine basis for informed discussion.

What you will gain

Sustainable development is a powerful global agenda enshrined in the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the UN Agenda 2030 and numerous other multilateral and national treaties and policies.

Quality of governance is increasingly recognised as central to sustainable development, which requires achieving just and legitimate outcomes in major global socio-economic and environmental issues such as poverty, climate change, food security and biodiversity loss.

As sustainable development becomes a global priority, professionals with the knowledge and skills to enact it are in high demand by intergovernmental agencies, governments, and private sector companies.

Careers

Our university's postgraduate courses have been recognised for their ability to support your career. We are a top 10 UK University for employability (UniCompare Rankings 2025), and a top 10 UK university for industry connections and funding in Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024.

How can the Global Governance and Sustainable Development MA support your career?

This degree will enhance your knowledge and skills with respect to global governance approaches and instruments focused on environmental sustainability and social justice.

Career paths

Graduates of this master's course can expect to find work in national and global NGOs as well as private and public sector institutions delivering on social and environmental policy targets.

Some of the roles our graduates have gone on to work as include consultant, researcher and policy advisor and they have found positions in organisations such as Westminster-based consultancies, national government departments and private enterprises with an interest in aspects of sustainable development.

MDXworks

Our employability service, MDXworks will launch you into the world of work from the beginning of your course, with placements, projects and networking opportunities through our 1000+ links with industry and big-name employers in London and globally.

Our dedicated lifetime career support, like our business start-up support programme and funding for entrepreneurs, has been recognised with the following awards:

• The top 20 UK universities for business leaders and entrepreneurs – Business Money, 2023
• A top 10 university for producing CEOs – Novuana, 2023.

Global network

You’ll study with students from 122 countries who’ll hopefully become part of your global network. And after you graduate, we'll still support you through our alumni network to help you progress in your chosen career.