Master of Sustainability (Professional)

Explore how humanity can meet its growing needs without limiting the ability of future generations to meet theirs in the Master of Sustainability (Professional). You'll develop advanced knowledge and contemporary skills to develop successful sustainability strategies by applying multidisciplinary and 'triple bottom line' approaches to policy and management solutions, balancing environmental, social and economic considerations.

You'll build a solid foundation in sustainability, environmental science and global change before undertaking specialised study in an area of your choosing. This flexible course allows you to further tailor your degree to suit your career aspirations by providing a choice of options towards the latter part of your studies - advanced research, elective study, or a combination of elective study and industry practice. Whatever you choose, you will be equipped for a rewarding career affecting positive change.

Ready to tackle complex sustainability issues head on?

Issues of sustainability are complex and the need for skilled professionals capable of developing appropriate cost-effective and targeted solutions to these challenges are crucial for our future. That's why a key focus of the Master of Sustainability (Professional) is developing an in depth understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals, which every member country of the United Nations is committed to achieving by 2030.

The flexible structure of the course provides you with the opportunity to build the degree for the career you want. You'll first acquire a solid foundation in sustainability before broadening your studies through pursuit of a specialisation that interests you most. Towards the latter part of your studies, you will have the option to either undertake a focused research project, industry practice or further broaden your skills through your choice of elective units spanning climate change adaptation and mitigation, regional development, environmental management, risk assessment and control, health promotion, community consultation and more.

Connections to industry are an integral part of this course and ensures you have the opportunity to gain an industry perspective and establish professional networks prior to graduation. Guest lectures from key industry partners are embedded into the course to provide you with an understanding of sustainability issues in a real-world context.

As a graduate of this course you will be equipped with the skills to build a rewarding career affecting positive change. You will be well positioned to engage in the development and implementation of practical solutions to the complex sustainability challenges and may choose to seek employment in government roles, non-government organisations or in the private sector.

Depending on your elected area of expertise, you may choose to pursue employment as an officer, manager or consultant in areas including environmental protection, cultural and natural heritage management, environmental conservation, land and water management, natural resource management, agriculture, communication and planning.

Those choosing to undertake the advanced research study option in the final year of this degree will also be well positioned to pursue further research studies, including a master by research or PhD.

To complete the Master of Sustainability (Professional), students must attain 16 credit points, which must include the following:

• Completion of DAI001 Academic Integrity Module (0-credit point compulsory unit)
• Completion of STP710 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit)
• Three (3) core units (3 credit points)
• 1 specialisation (4 credit points)
• A nine (9) credit point pathway in:
• Research pathway (subject to meeting unit requirements)* OR
• Industry practice pathway (subject to meeting unit requirements)^ OR
• Advanced discipline coursework pathway

Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.

The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.

You can also refer to the Recognition of prior learning system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.

Recognition of prior learning may be granted to applicants based on prior studies and/or equivalent industry experience.