Why Study Environmental Science and Sustainability Studies?

As the world begins to change, more students are shifting their focus to think about the future. For many, that means exploring areas of sustainability and environmental sciences. Sustainability means that we meet our present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to fulfill their needs.

Finding solutions to environmental problems

For those passionate about the environment, a degree in environmental engineering might be a step towards helping solve some of the bigger problems the world is facing. Students who leave school with a degree in environmental engineering will have the skill sets necessary to explore a variety of career options, from horticulture to environmental law enforcement. Those who follow this degree path can also opt for a career in the finance or insurance sector.

What is an environmental science degree?

An environmental science degree can help prepare you for myriad possibilities after leaving university. Students that pursue a degree in environmental science will leave school with skills and knowledge for a range of jobs in areas such as conservation, sustainability, and environmental research and education. They will find themselves well qualified for a variety of jobs in different fields, from horticulture, environmental law enforcement, waste management, environmental engineer or surveyor, and water quality scientist. They often find employment with local municipalities, state or federal organizations, environmental consulting firms, nature conservation organizations, or nature trusts. They can also parlay their skills into higher level opportunities, such as town planners, environmental health practitioners, or toxicologists, among many others.

What is a sustainability degree?

Students who earn a sustainability studies degree will graduate from their university prepared for many career paths. Graduates can work in energy companies to improve sustainability, consulting firms, in local and national governments, as researchers and much more. Sustainability is a multidisciplinary field involving scientists, educators, engineers, activists, and business professionals. Students and graduates of this subject promote the development of organisations in a way that respects the natural environment. As people, businesses, and governments are making increasing efforts to protect the future of the planet, and as consumers are becoming more eco-conscious, sustainability degrees are becoming even more vital.

Getting started

One of the best ways to get started on this important journey is to make the right choice for pursuing your education. Those interested in these degree paths might consider Sweden, a leading country for environmentalism and sustainability.

Understanding there are real crises the world may face, such as climate change, pollution, and lack of resources, Mälardalen University, in Västerås near Sweden’s capital Stockholm, is ready to face those challenges head on.

The university offers an excellent array of academic programmes designed to suit all interests. For those looking to improve upon their skill sets or enhance their education in environmental and sustainability studies, the Master's programme in Environmental Engineering for Sustainable Development is a perfect choice. This program is one of the first of its kind offered in Europe and is offered entirely online, making it a great choice for international students. This programme stays closely connected to the most up-to-date research in sustainability, offering insight into the current state of the field as well as emerging technologies.

For those interested in sustainable energy, Mälardalen University offers a Master’s programme in Sustainable Energy Systems. In this cutting-edge programme, students will be equipped to learn about “techniques utilising the sun, wind and biomass as energy sources.” Additionally, you’ll also learn about sustainable energy production, performance analysis of energy systems, “methods for optimisation, modelling and simulation of energy systems.”

Interested in learning more?

Mälardalen University student Sellman Darwish, a Sustainable Energy Systems Master’s student with a particular interest in civil engineering, says the teaching is “excellent” and “well laid out”, and that he was able to learn a lot without feeling overwhelmed. His advice to students attending Mälardalen University is to connect with other students in your class right away, adding, “this will help you keep track of any important information you might miss as well as have a group to study with and ball ideas with for hard projects, which is very beneficial as it's easy to get stuck by yourself.”

Prospective students can learn more about the university and student life by connecting with student ambassadors, who are ready to share their experience at the university. The ambassadors are available to chat and help answer questions, alleviate fears, or just share tips and tricks about life at the university. If you’re ready to take the next step, there are staff available to help you start the application process to make your entrance as smooth as possible.

The world is ready for change makers. If you want to make a difference, Mälardalen University is the place for you!

Article written in association with Mälardalen University.