Program Overview

Master in Sustainability Transformations

The Master in Sustainability Transformations is a program designed to address pressing global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and social inequalities. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to critically analyze sustainability issues and develop comprehensive solutions.

Program Description

The program is interdisciplinary and focuses on transformative learning, excellent methodological knowledge, and innovative teaching methods. It combines cutting-edge research in sustainability sciences with practical applications, incorporating collaborations with global networks and local stakeholders.

Study Objective

The objective of the program is to enable students to contribute to shaping a desirable future by acquiring competencies to initiate, design, and implement innovative processes that enable a sustainable world. Students will be prepared for significant roles in economy, policy consulting, international organizations, NGOs, and science.

Learning Environment

The program is characterized by:

• Excellent methodological knowledge: A thorough education in scientific methods ensures that graduates are well-equipped to address complex sustainability problems with a solid and critical scientific mindset.
• Innovative teaching methods: From serious games to interactive modules with practice partners, the teaching methods are designed to inspire creative problem-solving and dynamic project management.
• Transformative learning: The program fosters students as holistic personalities, strengthening resilience, intercultural skills, and self-care awareness, which are essential for supporting their engagement in sustainable, long-term changes.

Key Facts

• The program comprises 120 ECTS and is internationally oriented, with both students and faculty from around the world.
• It offers 30 study places and starts in the fall semester of 2024.
• The application process includes an online assessment, submission of application documents including an assessment score, and a potential interview for prospective students.

Deadlines

• November 1: Start of online assessment
• April 30: End of application period

Admission Requirements

Applicants with a Bachelor's degree from a Swiss university with 60 ECTS in Sustainable Development or equivalent can be admitted. International applicants must have a Bachelor's degree from a recognized university and equivalent knowledge in Sustainable Development (60 ECTS). If the requirement of 60 ECTS in Sustainable Development or equivalent is not met, students can acquire the necessary knowledge by completing additional 30 ECTS during their studies.

Internships and Study Abroad

Internships and study abroad periods (e.g., for the Master's thesis) are possible after consultation with the study leadership.

Study Duration

The standard study period is 4 semesters, with the start only possible in the fall semester.

Degree

Master of Science in Sustainability Transformations, University of Bern (M Sc).

Tuition Fees and Scholarships

Tuition fees are according to the regulations of the University of Bern. Currently, no scholarships are offered for this program. General information on scholarships at the University of Bern can be found elsewhere.

Program Structure

The program is designed to provide a comprehensive education in sustainability transformations, with a focus on:

• Critical analysis of sustainability issues
• Development of comprehensive solutions
• Innovative processes and dynamic project management
• Transformative learning and personal development

Research Areas

The program incorporates research in sustainability sciences, with a focus on:

• Sustainability transformations
• Global challenges and local solutions
• Interdisciplinary approaches to sustainability