BSc (Hons) Global Sustainable Development

Key Programme Information

Degree BSc (Hons) Global Sustainable Development
Language English
Awarding Body University of Plymouth
Start January, May or September Next start date is 29th September 2025
Cost £8,700
Duration 24 months
Apply now

Welcome Aboard

A welcome to your course from Alex Mejia, Director, Division for People and Social Inclusion Head, United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR).

UNITAR provides innovative learning solutions to individuals, organizations and institutions to enhance global decision-making and support country-level action for shaping a better future.

Course Description

Introducing you to the concepts and thinking behind the idea of sustainability, the BSc (Hons) Global Sustainable Development programme starts by exploring key thinkers and issues in engaging the global community with the notion of sustainable development. At the same time, we introduce you to important ways to investigate, interrogate and analyse new research in sustainable development, and familiarise you with the expectations of higher education.

We then focus upon the connections between the classic ‘three pillars’ of sustainability; society, economy and the environment. It is these connections that present the greatest challenges and opportunities to forge a sustainable world.

The course aims to:

Provide a sound and critical understanding of sustainable development, particularly with reference to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Show how sustainability is conceived and practiced differently across the globe.
Provide key theoretical and practical knowledge of a range of subjects that are important considerations within the SDGs.
Enable students to understand the role of individuals, communities, and institutions in delivering sustainable development.
Foster debate and enable students to express reasoned, evidence-based arguments.

This distance learning programme has been jointly developed and implemented with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). On successful completion of the programme and in addition to a degree certificate, graduates will be awarded a UNITAR certificate of completion.

Programme Modules

Click on a module for more information.

Compulsory Modules

MLA635 Sustainability on Your Doorstep

MLA639 Methods for Sustainability Research

Optional Modules

Choose 2 of 3

MLA636 Space and Society: A social lens for sustainability

MLA637 Sustainability and the Natural World

MLA638 Economics, Business and Sustainability

Compulsory Module

MLA640 BSc Honours Project

Application Information

A copy of your CV
A suitable English language certificate, for example an IELTS. A full list of certificates accepted can be found here. (For International students only)
Copies of academic certificates and/or transcripts
A copy of your passport (photo page only)
A 200-300 word personal statement explaining your motivation for wanting to join this programme. You may find our Guidance document helpful.

Entry Requirements

Typically, eligible candidates will have one of the following: 

Foundation Degree, or equivalent, in a related subject area

Demonstrable relevant work or life experience, evidenced via Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)

And

English language GCSE Grade C or above, or international equivalent

In some circumstances, it may be necessary for you to undertake our 8-week Global Sustainable Development Access Course (GSD101) in order to meet the entry requirements.

There are multiple pathways onto the programme, and our Admissions Team is here to help. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, get in touch – we’ll be happy to discuss your experience and explore the best route for you. admissions@mla.ac.uk

Suggested Pre-Reading List

Lewis, S. and Maslin, M. 2018. The Human Planet: How we created the Anthropocene. Pelican: London

Cottrell, S. 2019. The Study Skills Handbook. Bloomsbury: London

MLA College and the University of Plymouth use Harvard style referencing and it is advisable to pre-study on the importance of referencing on all academic coursework and how to do it, which is available here.

University Degrees validated by the University of Plymouth

Graduate testimonials

The content and support allows people to study anywhere in the world. It is the future of higher education.

MSc Engineering for Marine Professionals Student

Supporting Your Journey

Meet the Student Experience Team

Your MLA College Student Experience team, Abigail White and Charlie Vosper, are the first point of contact for enrolled students who are in need of pastoral support, including requests under the Extenuating Circumstances policy for matters related to their academic studies. Abigail and Charlie are also responsible for monitoring student engagement and academic progression and will contact students directly to offer assistance should they feel that intervention is needed.

Key Programme Information

Welcome Aboard