COURSE CURRICULUM

In Year 1, you will establish a solid foundation in the social and environmental aspects of sustainable development. The compulsory modules will introduce you to key global challenges, such as poverty, gender inequality, and the limits of Earth systems, while helping you understand the social injustices these issues create. The coursework will include critical examinations of environmental sustainability and development, offering perspectives on how to balance ecological and social needs for a more sustainable world. Collaboration with real-world partners begins in this year, with guest lectures and initial site visits enriching your understanding.Compulsory modules for Year 1 include Big Questions for People and Planet (DEV-4003A), where you will critically analyze major global issues like poverty, inequality, climate change, and food security. The Sustainability Challenges and Solutions module (ENV-4003A) will explore sustainability concepts such as carbon footprints and the circular economy, while also helping you develop essential academic skills in research, writing, and analysis. In Perspectives on Global Development (DEV-4004A), you will study key development theories, such as human development and neo-liberalism, critically assessing how they shape global policies. Finally, Global Sustainable Development (DEV-4013B) will address the concept of planetary boundaries, examining how human resource use impacts sustainability, equality, and development on a global scale.In Year 2, the focus shifts toward finding actionable solutions to interconnected global challenges, such as food security, water conservation, and biodiversity loss. The modules will deepen your research and problem-solving skills through field studies and project-based learning. You'll explore various environmental topics and have more opportunities to specialize in areas of interest, such as environmental law or philosophy.Compulsory modules for Year 2 include Sustainable Rural Development (DEV-5027A), which examines theories and practices related to rural livelihoods and resource use. The DEV Field Course (DEV-5024B) provides hands-on experience with data collection and research in the field. Conservation, Restoration, and Environmental Justice (DEV-5027B) explores the global biodiversity crisis and the social injustices tied to conservation efforts, focusing on the global South and food systems.In Year 3, you'll spend your time studying abroad at a partner university, which will allow you to complement your learning at UEA by taking related courses in global or international development. This year will provide you with valuable international exposure and deepen your understanding of sustainable development in different contexts.In Year 4, you will focus on how societies can transform to more sustainable futures, with an emphasis on practical application. You will have greater flexibility to tailor your studies to match your interests and career goals. This year will offer the opportunity to engage in independent research, particularly through the completion of a dissertation on a sustainability issue of your choice. The final year modules also include Just Transformations to Sustainability (DEV-6002B), which looks at sustainability through a political ecology lens, exploring environmental justice, equity, and transformation towards a more just and sustainable planet. This will be complemented by practical experience in sustainability planning through collaborations with local partner organizations.