Why opt for Utrecht University

Research Master

The Sustainable Development MSc is a Utrecht Research Master’s programme, because the Sustainable Development staff holds a leading research position worldwide on sustainability matters. The Sustainable Development Master’s programme has been developed by one of the world’s leading research groups on sustainability issues: Utrecht University’s Copernicus Institute for sustainable development and innovation. Our research and teaching staff participate actively in international networks and are at the forefront of their field. 

Unique multidisciplinary approach

This Sustainable Development Master’s programme offers a unique multidisciplinary approach, combining natural and social sciences. You’ll work together with Sustainable Development students from different tracks in multidisciplinary research that do not shy away from confrontation and integration of ideas and viewpoints. The only way to fully understand a problem!

Challenging international environment

Our small-scale educational system and personal teaching methods ensure that you’ll develop your talents to the fullest. And because we have students from all over the world, Sustainable Development offers a truly international environment in which you can develop a global opinion on environmental issues. 

Heart of scientific practice

Our broad international network allows us to offer you a good choice of research projects, while at the same time bringing you right to the heart of scientific practice. Up-to-date research results are used in the teaching programme and Sustainable Development students are closely involved in the research activities.

Excellent exchange options

The Research Master Sustainable Development at Utrecht University is part of the International Joint Master’s Programme in Sustainable Development. This new academic collaboration with six international partner universities enables you to follow courses at a partner university during one or two semesters. A unique possibility to broaden your view!

Extra scholarships

Students that have been selected for a Utrecht Research Master’s programme stand a better chance of receiving a Utrecht Excellence Scholarship. 

"A very pioneering and long-term-oriented programme"

"I am originally from China and am used to studying/working in different countries. I chose to follow Sustainable Development because I think this is a very pioneering and long-term-oriented programme. This programme covers both natural sciences and social sciences and provides a great combination of many scientific disciplines. By means of various practicals and teamwork, the programme stimulates an enhancing of students’ strengths and a diminishing of their weaknesses, while building up students’ confidence and ability to achieve sustainability. I have found the programme very interesting and inspiring.

Apart from studying, I also like the social life in both the university and Utrecht. My fellow students are of different nationalities and have different backgrounds, which makes the programme truly international and intercultural. So, after a group meeting, I’ve always looked forward to fascinating worldwide food and drinks!"

Junying Chang from China, Sustainable Development student, Energy and Resources track


Please meet more of our students!