Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Arts Programme in Creative Sustainability

The Master of Arts Programme in Creative Sustainability provides a multidisciplinary learning platform in the fields of design, business, and materials and chemical engineering. The programme aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote sustainable development through creative design practice.

Programme Description

The Master's Programme in Creative Sustainability is organized jointly by the School of Arts, Design and Architecture, the School of Business, and the School of Chemical Engineering. The two-year programme comprises a total of 120 ECTS credits, divided between compulsory joint Creative Sustainability studies, compulsory studies in design, elective studies, and a master's thesis.

Programme Structure

• Major studies: 60 credits
• Thesis: 30 credits
• Elective studies: 30 credits

Aims of the Master of Arts Degree

The aim of the degree is to provide students with:

• Good theoretical and general knowledge of their field of study
• Artistic and practical expertise in their field of study
• Knowledge and skills needed for independent and demanding artistic work and for multidisciplinary collaboration
• Knowledge and skills needed to apply scientific knowledge and scientific methods
• Knowledge and skills to perform, both independently and collaboratively, demanding expert, development, and management duties in the field
• Knowledge and skills needed for education leading to a Doctor of Arts degree and for lifelong learning
• Good language and communication skills for work in the field of arts and for international operations and cooperation

Intended Learning Outcomes

• Systems thinking: Students are able to use systems thinking to create new holistic and critical understandings of complex sustainability challenges and socio-ecological relations
• Multidisciplinary competences: Students are able to work in teams with different experts and stakeholders, combine knowledge and skills from different disciplines, and co-create innovative solutions for real-life challenges
• Change-making: Students develop a change-maker mindset, and are able to generate action-oriented strategies, make effective interventions, and promote transformations towards ecologically, economically, and socially sustainable futures
• Sustainability in materials use: Students understand the constraints on the use of natural resources, the principles of resource-efficiency, circular economy, and innovation for new sustainable materials
• Design thinking: Students are able to use tools and methods to support creativity and imagination and to facilitate dialogue, empathy, and collaboration in creative processes
• Sustainability management: Students are able to develop, speak for, and manage sustainability initiatives in businesses and other organizations

Career Opportunities

Creative Sustainability studies prepare students to work as sustainability experts in a wide range of organizations, including those with a strategic view on transformation towards sustainability. Graduates from the programme are attractive targets for progressive local and international employers, as well as prepared for academic careers and independent entrepreneurial activity.

Content of the Studies

The pedagogical approach is based on integrating teaching and research, problem-based learning, and a strong connection to practical outcomes. The curriculum is based on personal study plans, in which students can also include studies completed at other universities or other modules from the university. The programme teaches skills to meet the challenges of innovating for sustainable development through specialization and interdisciplinary work.