MSc Leadership for Sustainable Development

With increasing recognition of the impact of a world living beyond its means, the commitment to sustainable development to meet the needs of present generations without jeopardising those of future generations has never been more essential, particularly for organisations across the public and private sectors.

This innovative Masters programme is open to applicants from all subject backgrounds, and is designed to create leaders and sustainability professionals in all fields and subjects. The course will require a high level of independence, adaptability, engagement with both the University and external organisations, and a willingness to be challenged.

Programme content is designed to be holistic, so students will study at intermediate level the broad-ranging fields of leadership and management, environmental and sustainability science, social studies, and economics, amongst others, to prepare them for life as change agents in sustainable development. The course embraces personal choice of study where possible to enhance the students’ existing knowledge, experiences, and interests.

A key principle of the programme is the importance of Education for Sustainable Development, and students will complete the course as fully developed individuals with competency in critical-thinking, systems-thinking, interpersonal working, and much more. Modules are taught through action-based, experiential learning methods such as practicals, site visits, work placements and community-based learning consultancy projects, in addition to lectures and tutorials.

Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 31st July 2023 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Application Portal against the programme application page.

Please note a deposit may be required to guarantee a place on the course. Due to high demand, applications may not be considered if the course has reached its maximum class size and will be placed on a waiting list. Please see deposit terms and conditions for more details.

This MSc will equip you to work in a variety of roles in both the private and public sector, here in Northern Ireland, and internationally. Our recent graduates have gone on to a wide range of roles such as; Climate Programme Manager: Action Resilience Officer for Climate: Communications and Engagement Specialist; Environmental Manager; Sustainability Consultant; Housing Development; Recycling Education Promotions Officer; International Development Volunteer; Marine Community Support Officer; Waste and Recycling Manager: Parliamentary Assistant and Environmental Consultant.

Autumn Semester

Students will be introduced to leadership and sustainable development over three taught modules to help gain an overview of the principles and values of sustainable development, and why it is important.

Leadership for Sustainable Development:

explores approaches to leading and managing oneself and other people, the contexts in which this happens (organisations and systems) and how project and policy management takes place in these contexts.

Foundations for Sustainable Development 1 & 2:

consider the core themes, policies and strategies underpinning sustainable development focusing on the UN SD Goals and the Three Pillars of Sustainability. There are additional opportunities for practical training and relevant skills development.

Effective Leadership (Group Project):

requires a small group of students to engage with a host organisation over the year in a project of their choice to promote sustainable development through 'experiential learning'.

Spring Semester

Students carry out two compulsory work-based learning placements in the second semester, each comprising eight weeks' work:

• Work Placement in Sustainable Development Placement I – Jan-Mar
• Work Placement in Sustainable Development Placement II – April-June

The placements provide experiences of sustainable development and leadership thereof in a wide range of organisations. Staff and students work together to identify suitable hosts.

Summer Semester

Students have a choice between a third eight-week work placement, or to undertake a taught module:

• Work Placement in Sustainable Development Placement III – July-August

Reflective Practice in Sustainable Development:

requires students to consider their role as reflective practitioners in Sustainable Development and critically evaluate their development and performance over the year.

Learning and Teaching

Learning opportunities available with this course are outlined below:

At Queen’s, we aim to deliver a high-quality learning environment that embeds intellectual curiosity, innovation and best practice in learning, teaching and student support to enable students to achieve their full academic potential.

On the MSc in Leadership for Sustainable Development, we do this by providing a range of learning experiences that enable our students to engage with subject experts, develop attributes and perspectives that will equip them for life and work in a global society and make use of innovative technologies and a world-class library that enhances their development as independent, lifelong learners.

Teaching is a combination of morning and afternoon classes.

Examples of the opportunities provided for learning on this course include; lectures, practical experiences, research skills, E-Learning technologies, Self-directed study and added value qualifications to enhance employability.

Assessment

Assessments associated with the course are outlined below:

Students will be assessed through a variety of methods throughout the course.

This includes; research projects, group work, presentations, reports and essays, seminar contribution and reflective self-assessment