Sustainability Leadership

The University of Cambridge offers a comprehensive program in Sustainability Leadership designed to equip current and future leaders with the knowledge, skills, and strategic insights necessary to address the complex challenges of sustainability in a rapidly changing world. This program explores the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors, emphasizing the importance of innovative thinking and ethical decision-making in fostering sustainable development across various sectors. Participants will engage with cutting-edge research, case studies, and practical applications to understand how organizations can implement sustainable practices that are resilient and impactful. The curriculum covers key areas such as climate change mitigation and adaptation, renewable energy, circular economy, social equity, governance, and responsible leadership. Delivered through a blend of online learning modules, interactive workshops, and expert-led seminars, the program provides a flexible and rigorous educational experience tailored to professionals seeking to lead sustainability initiatives within their organizations. Emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches, it encourages collaboration among participants from diverse backgrounds, facilitating the exchange of ideas and best practices. The program also aims to develop strategic thinking and decision-making abilities, empowering participants to design and implement effective sustainability strategies. With a focus on real-world applications, students will undertake projects that enable them to apply their learning directly to their current roles, fostering tangible environmental and social impact. Graduates of the program will emerge equipped to influence policy, drive organizational change, and contribute meaningfully to the global sustainability agenda. This program is ideal for professionals in leadership roles across business, public policy, non-governmental organizations, and academia who are committed to making a positive difference in the pursuit of a sustainable future.

The primary approaches to teaching and learning are:

• taught sessions by academics and practitioners, who are thought-leaders and/or case study illustrators
• group work, involving dialogue, debate and presentations throughout the taught modules, as well as a group research assignment
• individual work, involving research and written presentation of findings on selected topics
• support and facilitation by a CISL-led team of faculty, tutors and supervisors from within the University
• intensive and collaborative e-learning programmes, including e-modules, online webinars and content-based discussions to maximize knowledge sharing.

Contact time

• Lectures: 35 hours per year
• Seminars and classes: 50 hours per year
• Small group teaching: 26 hours per year
• Supervision: 7 hours per year

Assessment

Thesis

• Dissertation: 15,000 words maximum (including footnotes, tables and graphs but excluding appendices and bibliography).

Essays, projects and written papers

• An analysis paper of 3,000 words maximum
• A strategy paper of 3,000 words maximum
• A group project of 5,000-7,000 words

Some assignments and the dissertation require literature reviews. The dissertation also involves an oral presentation.

Examples of previous dissertation topics, articles produced based on dissertation research undertaken during the Master's programme, and example group project topics are available on the CISL website.

Feedback

Students are given formal feedback on their assignment and informal feedback throughout their course, including during supervisions. First year tutors give an annual progress report at the end of year 1 and dissertation supervisors provide termly reports during year 2.

Expected academic standard

Applicants are assessed and accepted on the basis that they have:

1. At least a 2.i honours degree* from a UK university or an equivalent standard from an overseas institution
2. A minimum of three years' work experience
3. Demonstrable enthusiasm and/or aptitude for sustainability leadership
4. Good ability in written and spoken English language
5. Endorsement from your employer or, if independent, from an organisation that will be the focus of your work on the programme
6. Access to appropriate computer technology and internet software
7. The ability to pay the course fees or to identify a sponsoring institution

* Exceptional applicants who do not meet the standard admission criteria of a 2.i honours degree will be assessed on an individual basis and may be required to provide further materials in support of their application.

Language requirement

• IELTS Academic: Overall score of 7.5 (a minimum of 7.0 in each individual component)
• TOEFL Internet: Overall score of 110 (a minimum of 25 in each individual component)
• CAE: Grade A or B (with at least 193 in each individual element) plus a Language Centre assessment
• CPE: Grade A, B, or C (with at least 200 in each individual element)

Supporting documents

• References 
• Academic Transcripts
• Research Proposal
• Curriculum Vitae
• Professional Qualifications
• Personal Statement
• Letter of Support from your Employer
• Writing Sample

The University of Cambridge offers diverse funding options for students enrolled in the Sustainability Leadership master's program. While specific scholarships and financial aid packages directly dedicated to this program may vary from year to year, the university provides a broad range of financial support mechanisms designed to assist both domestic and international students. These include university-funded scholarships, external bursaries, and sponsorship opportunities that help alleviate the costs associated with postgraduate studies. Applicants are encouraged to explore the Cambridge Trust, which offers numerous scholarships for international students, including some aimed at students pursuing sustainable development and environmental leadership topics. Additionally, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, available to excellent applicants from any country outside the UK, covers full tuition fees, a maintenance stipend, and airfare, and is highly competitive. The university also facilitates departmental and college-specific scholarships, some of which focus on leadership, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility. Moreover, students might consider external funding sources such as government grants, private foundations, or corporate sponsorships interested in promoting sustainability initiatives. The program’s fees vary depending on residency status and may be subject to annual adjustments. For students who need financial support, Cambridge also offers short-term emergency loans, installment plans, and external loan options to facilitate payments. Furthermore, many students pursue part-time employment during their studies, with the university's Career Service providing resources and opportunities for part-time work, internships, and employer connections relevant to sustainability and leadership fields. It is advisable for prospective students to check the official university website and contact the admissions office directly for the most current information on available funding options, eligibility criteria, and application procedures, as these can change yearly. Preparing a strong scholarship application, demonstrating leadership potential, academic excellence, and a commitment to sustainability can enhance the chances of securing financial aid. Overall, while the exact amount of funding available for the Sustainability Leadership program depends on multiple factors, Cambridge’s comprehensive financial support ecosystem aims to make postgraduate study accessible and affordable for talented students worldwide.

The MSc in Sustainability Leadership at the University of Cambridge is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead and implement sustainability initiatives across various sectors. Hosted by the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL), the program emphasizes the development of practical leadership capabilities alongside a rigorous understanding of sustainability challenges and solutions. It attracts a diverse cohort of professionals from around the world, including business leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, fostering an innovative learning environment that promotes cross-sector collaboration. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of topics, including environmental systems, sustainable business practices, climate change policy, corporate responsibility, and innovative solutions for sustainable development. Through a blend of lectures, case studies, group projects, and real-world applied research, students gain hands-on experience in designing and leading sustainability strategies. The program also emphasizes ethical considerations and the importance of stakeholder engagement in sustainability efforts. Students benefit from expert faculty members who are leaders in their respective fields, as well as access to Cambridge’s extensive resources and networks. The program usually combines online learning with residential sessions, allowing flexibility for working professionals while maintaining critical face-to-face interactions. Graduates typically go on to hold leadership roles in corporations, governments, NGOs, or start their own initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development. The MSc in Sustainability Leadership is part of Cambridge’s broader commitment to addressing global environmental and social challenges through education, research, and advocacy. The program’s aim is to develop leaders capable of driving meaningful change and creating resilient, sustainable societies.