Leadership in Climate Change and Sustainability MSc

Overview

Climate change is the defining crisis of our time and requires an agile and globally collaborative response. Now is the time for bold collective action.

On our Leadership in Climate Change and Sustainability MSc programme you will gain a deep insight into climate change's impact on the planet and on human societies and develop the professional skills needed to influence and lead on sustainable climate action.

You will explore sustainable approaches to tackle climate change and other negative human impacts on the planet.

The programme has 3 distinct themes:

1. Interdisciplinary and collaborative approaches
2. Learning through live projects with external partners
3. Development of personal agency and leadership roles

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and Newcastle University's own commitment to Net Zero and Climate Action Plan, the programme offers learners the opportunity to study global solutions, enhance personal growth, and refine leadership skills.

Together, we'll explore ways to drive meaningful responses and create a more sustainable future.

Important information

We've highlighted important information about your course. Please take note of any deadlines.

Your course and study experience - disclaimers and terms and conditions

Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to Covid-19.

View our Academic experience page, which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2024-25.

See our terms and conditions and student complaints information, which gives details of circumstances that may lead to changes to programmes, modules or University services.

Your future

Graduate destinations

Employability is a key focus of the programme, offering tailored support from Newcastle University's award-winning career service.

Climate change is one of the most complex and challenging issues of our time and impacts everyone on the planet. The job market is responding to the global and national responses to climate change with an increase in opportunities across the board: in industry, government, NGOs, charities as well as international bodies and organisations.

The skills and knowledge acquired through this programme are essential for the future of work. The programme will empower learners to become leading change agents in their chosen field.

Graduates on this MSc are prepared for a wide range of careers across the globe in various areas and sectors, including:

• policy
• planning
• local government
• energy consultancies
• large and small engineering consultancies
• entrepreneurship and business start-ups
• economic development
• charitable organisations

Practical skills

Learners are offered the opportunity to tackle local, national and international challenges in climate change and sustainability through live projects, supported by personal tutors and industry experts. On successful completion of this programme, learners will be able to:

• Research, select and apply appropriate knowledge to practice-based projects
• Plan and deliver team and individual work-packages and projects within timescale and given resources
• Engage in peer and self-assessment to drive improvement and progressive personal and team development
• Design and deliver effective communication strategies for a variety of audiences

Transferable/Key Skills

On successful completion of the programme, learners will be able to:

• Source expert, authoritative and verifiable knowledge
• Work and lead effectively in interdisciplinary teams by understanding and drawing on the skills, knowledges, practices, cultures, and motivations of each team member.
• Respond to complex social challenges and opportunities with creative, analytical and innovative thinking
• Design and present arguments in a clear and impactful manner for a range of audiences

Industry links

Our strong industrial and stakeholder engagement means our degree programmes are informed by industry and experts. You will typically benefit from this engagement through:

• industry guest lectures
• site visits
• projects
• employment opportunities with added support from our Careers Service

On the Live Projects module you work with international companies, such as ARUP and RWE, in the sustainability industry. You'll also respond to challenges posed by our partners and develop innovative concepts and solutions.

You'll have a chance to showcase your ideas and yourself when you present your projects.

Our Careers Service

Our Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. 

Visit our Careers Service website