Philosophy, Politics and Society: Philosophy of Sustainability and Environment (specialisation of Philosophy)

The Philosophy of Sustainability and Environment specialization within the Philosophy program at Radboud University offers students a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the ethical, conceptual, and practical issues surrounding sustainability and environmental challenges. This uniquely focused program bridges philosophical inquiry with pressing global concerns, equipping students with critical thinking skills and philosophical tools necessary to understand and address complex environmental issues. Students will examine key topics such as environmental ethics, the philosophy of nature, climate change, sustainable development, and the role of human agency in preserving the planet. The curriculum emphasizes understanding different philosophical perspectives on sustainability, including moral considerations, political philosophy, and social theory, enabling students to develop well-rounded and nuanced insights into how society can move towards more sustainable models of living.

Throughout the program, students engage with a diverse range of texts from classical philosophy to contemporary environmental debates, fostering analytical skills and fostering a reflective approach to real-world challenges. The program encourages active participation in discussions, research projects, and interdisciplinary collaborations, often involving visiting speakers, seminars, and workshops. Additionally, students are supported in developing practical skills such as ethical analysis, policy evaluation, and effective communication of complex ideas to policymakers, stakeholders, and the public. Graduates of this specialization are well-prepared for careers in environmental policy, advocacy, academia, and consulting, or for further graduate studies in philosophy, environmental studies, or related fields. The program's vibrant academic community, combined with its focus on societal impact and practical relevance, makes the Philosophy of Sustainability and Environment specialization a unique opportunity for students passionate about making a meaningful difference in the world through philosophical inquiry and sustainable action.

The Master's specialisation in Philosophy, Politics and Society is run by the department of Ethics and Social and Political Philosophy. It has a course load of 60 EC (one-year). The structure is as follows:

• Philosophy of Sustainability and Environment 1
• Philosophy of Sustainability and Environment 2
• Elective course(s) or internship
• Public Philosophy
• Philosophical Tools
• Master's thesis

1. A relevant degree, being one of the following: 
   • A completed Bachelor's degree in PPS
   • A completed Bachelor's degree in Philosophy
   • A completed pre-masters in Philosophy
   • A completed diploma with a philosophical component of at least 60 EC of relevant courses.
2. A proficiency in English.
   In order to take part in this programme, you need to have fluency in both written and spoken English. Non-native speakers of English* without a Dutch Bachelor's degree or VWO diploma need one of the following:
   • A TOEFL iBT or ≥90 overal, with subscores of ≥22
   • An IELTS score of ≥7.0, with subscores of ≥6,5
   • A Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 proficiency, with marks of C or higher

* Applicants are considered to be a native speaker of English if they are from Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, UK or USA.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

There are a variety of scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Please consult the following pags to find out which scholarships may be available to you: www.ru.nl/scholarships

The Philosophy of Sustainability and Environment is a specialized track within the Philosophy program at Radboud University, designed to explore the ethical, conceptual, and practical dimensions of sustainability and environmental issues. This programme aims to equip students with analytical skills to critically assess the philosophical foundations of environmental challenges, such as climate change, resource depletion, biodiversity loss, and ecological justice. Students will engage with core philosophical disciplines including ethics, epistemology, and political philosophy, focusing on questions related to sustainability, human-nature relationships, and the responsibilities of current and future generations.

The curriculum emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from environmental sciences, economics, and social sciences, to foster a well-rounded understanding of complex environmental problems. Throughout the programme, students are encouraged to develop their own philosophical perspectives on how societies can transition toward more sustainable practices while maintaining social justice and individual freedoms. The curriculum typically includes courses on environmental ethics, philosophy of science, political philosophy, and practical case studies related to sustainability policies.

Students will benefit from the university's strong emphasis on critical thinking, argumentative skills, and research methodology. The programme also offers opportunities for internships, research projects, and collaboration with environmental organizations, allowing students to apply philosophical theories to real-world issues. Graduates of this specialization are prepared for careers in academia, policy-making, consultancy, non-governmental organizations, and other sectors focused on sustainable development and environmental advocacy.

Radboud University fosters an international and inclusive academic environment, supporting students from diverse backgrounds. The programme is designed to be accessible for students with various interests in philosophy and sustainability, aiming to contribute to meaningful societal debates and policy formulation concerning environmental stewardship and ethical responsibility. Overall, the Philosophy of Sustainability and Environment programme seeks to cultivate a new generation of thinkers capable of addressing some of the most pressing global issues through philosophical insight and ethical reflection.