Studying environment and sustainability abroad: fields, countries and careers
Studying environmental science, climate change, renewable energy and sustainable development abroad: types of programmes, choosing a country, admission and green career options.
Short answer: The field of environment, climate and sustainability is growing fast: companies, governments and international organisations are looking for specialists in ESG, energy transition and climate policy. Abroad there are both science-and-engineering and policy-and-management programmes in this field.
Types of programmes
- Environmental Science.
- Climate change and climate policy.
- Renewable energy and energy systems.
- Sustainable development and ESG management.
- Water resources and environmental engineering.
- Circular economy and waste management.
Choosing a country
- The Netherlands: strong programmes in water management and sustainability.
- Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland: green energy and climate research. See: studying in Denmark and studying in Norway.
- Germany: energy transition and engineering.
- New Zealand and Australia: ecology and nature conservation. See: studying in New Zealand.
Admission requirements
- For science and engineering programmes: a background in biology, chemistry, geography, physics or engineering.
- For policy and management programmes: a bachelor's in social sciences, economics or law may also be accepted.
- An English certificate and motivation letter.
Scholarships
Some Erasmus Mundus programmes are in environment and energy. DAAD's development-oriented programmes also cover this field.
Careers
Sustainability departments of energy companies, ESG and climate consulting, government bodies, international organisations and environmental projects are the main paths. Demand is growing in Azerbaijan as renewable energy projects expand.
Frequently asked questions
Is biology required to study environment?
Often yes for science programmes, but not essential for policy and management programmes.
Is this field only scientific work?
No, there are wide job opportunities in business, finance (green finance) and policy too.
Note: admission requirements vary by programme. Check the university's official page before applying.
Since 2018, EDDE Global has helped students choose a university and prepare documents and visa applications. Book a free consultation or take the major selection test.
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