Program Overview

Introduction to the Master's Program in Sustainability Science

The Master's program in Sustainability Science is a newly introduced academic field not only in Vietnam but also globally. The establishment and implementation of this Master's program is a significant event for the Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU). The program was first introduced in 2014 at the School of Interdisciplinary Sciences, VNU.

Program Objectives

The Master's program in Sustainability Science is designed to provide high-quality human resources with updated and advanced knowledge in Sustainability Science, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary research skills. The program aims to equip students with the ability to apply various methods, technologies, and tools in Sustainability Science research, contributing to the realization of sustainable development goals and social responsibility in the context of globalization.

Specific Objectives

The Master's program in Sustainability Science has the following specific objectives:

• Equip students with advanced and updated knowledge in Sustainability Science
• Develop critical thinking and interdisciplinary approaches in identifying and proposing solutions to promote sustainable development
• Develop the ability to evaluate the sustainability of issues in practice
• Enhance the ability to apply various methods and tools in organizing and implementing Sustainability Science research
• Strengthen the ability to evaluate the implementation of sustainable solutions and determine corresponding development models
• Enhance social responsibility in professional work and the ability to cooperate with relevant parties to achieve sustainable development goals in the national and international context

Target Audience

The program is designed for individuals who are working in fields related to sustainable development, such as:

• Those working in government agencies, sectors, and industries related to climate change and sustainable development
• Those working in businesses related to fields that require sustainable development
• Those working in non-governmental organizations, especially those active in development, livelihood, and community fields related to climate change and sustainable development
• Those working in media, press, and communication agencies
• Individuals interested in global issues such as climate change and sustainable development

Program Structure

The program consists of three main components:

I. General Knowledge (8 credits)

• Philosophy
• Foreign Language (B2 level)

II. Core and Specialized Knowledge (33 credits)

• Compulsory courses (18 credits):
  • Introduction to Sustainability Science
  • Methods in Interdisciplinary Research
  • Human Dimensions of Sustainability
  • Models of Development
  • Sustainable Distribution and Use of Resources
  • Sustainable Development in the Context of Global Change
• Elective courses:
  • Science, Technology, and Innovation for Sustainability
  • Sustainable Health and Environment
  • Sustainability and Enterprise
  • Renewable Energy and Climate Change
  • Urban Resilience to Climate Change
  • Sustainability Agriculture and Rural Development
  • Culture and Education for Sustainability
  • Analysis of Conflict and Cooperation
  • Land Use Planning for Climate Change Response
  • Business and Finance for Sustainable Development
  • Uncertainty and Decision Making Theory
  • Food Security and Sustainable Food System

III. Research (24 credits)

• Research topics:
  • Literature Review
  • Research Design
  • Interdisciplinary Fieldwork
  • Data Collection, Processing, and Analysis
• Master's thesis (12 credits)

Admission Requirements

• Direct admission (based on the applicant's file): for applicants who graduated with a Bachelor's degree in relevant fields with a grade of Good or higher within 12 months prior to the application deadline.
• Admission examination (including evaluation of the applicant's file and interview): for other applicants.

Eligible Applicants

Applicants with a Bachelor's degree in various fields can apply, provided they meet specific requirements and may need to take additional courses to supplement their knowledge.

Additional Requirements for Different Fields

Applicants from different fields may need to take additional courses to meet the program's requirements. The specific courses and credits required vary depending on the applicant's field of study.

Note

One credit is equivalent to 50 hours of student workload, including time spent in class, self-study, research, and exams. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Sustainability Science and equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to sustainable development in various contexts.