MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment
In brief
| Fees | |
|---|---|
| Start date | 1 October 2024 |
| Duration | 12 months |
| Time commitment | Full time |
| Location | Oxford |
| Home | £27,660 |
| Overseas | £43,170 |
Deadlines
- Applications for 2024/25 intake are now closed
Contact
Dr Laurence Wainwright: mscenquiries@smithschool.ox.ac.uk
Overview
Our MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment (MSEE) aims to address two fundamental challenges of our time: making the transition to a zero-carbon and environmentally sustainable economic model, and simultaneously enabling sustainable development for everyone, poor and rich alike.
The course views these challenges through the lenses of finance, economics and enterprise – the Smith School’s core strengths. This full time 12-month course is designed for current and future decision-makers who wish to:
- Deepen their expertise in economics, finance and business
- Broaden their understanding of the scientific, technological and cultural aspects of climate change and sustainable development
- Learn how to lead impactful change within enterprise.
Our course is aimed at both recently completed undergraduates and graduates as well as early- to mid-career professionals.
MSc in Enterprise and the Environment
Video transcript
We are pushing too hard against the boundaries of this planet and we're doing so at our own peril. We have to fundamentally shift the way that we think about the interaction between economies, human society and nature. You don't have to start soon, we've got to start now in terms of addressing these challenges, and I think industry is crying out for professionals with training in in these fields, in climate science. You know they want someone who can walk into a room and confidently speak about the physics of climate change, just in the ways they want someone who can understand ESG metrics and be able to interpret those properly. So there's a great need for formal qualifications in these fields and we're really giving that in this programme.
Should I compensate the next generation that I've used up that non-renewable natural capital and the next generation doesn't have it.
We're looking for a range of different applicants – we might have people coming straight from a bachelor's degree coming into the Master’s programme, we may have people with five, seven, ten years of work experience, mid to early career professionals. We're looking for people who are genuinely passionate about all things sustainability and have a real desire to get a rigorous understanding of the natural and social sciences, and to actually use that after they finish the course and go out into the world and lead impactful change towards net-zero sustainable development. We're talking in excess of 500 people interested in the programme, we're taking around 20 places, so it's phenomenally competitive.
Prices are being driven up which is good for a sustainable economy, what about the people who are being subjected to that?
We're looking at these problems through the lens of a finance economics business, we're saying, for better or for worse, the mess that we find ourselves in is a large result of human nature for starters, but also business and markets but paradoxically these mediums and these entities are also the way the way out of this problem. Oxford is a really special place, you can kind of sense it in the air, there's something magical about this place. There's a plethora of activities that go on outside of the classroom here at Oxford whether it be the colleges and the rich experience that college life brings which is the defining part of your experience at the university of Oxford, whether it be a range of leadership activities and opportunities to take on, whether you're captain of a sports team, whether you're in the Oxford Union and you're debating. There's a magical feeling when you step into the library and you think about all those who have been here before, and the remarkable things that they've done, and you almost feel a sense of obligation to manifest your potential in the world to, fulfill the ideas of what this university is about. I’ve worked and studied now at five different universities around the world and I have to say that this is by far the most impressive place that I've seen in terms of the opportunities that are that are available to students. It's an incredibly diverse cohort in the class, we have something like 14 or 15 nationalities represented in the 24 students which is quite phenomenal when you think about it. The diversity of age is very useful, some of the younger ones are able to learn from those who have worked for a couple of years, in some cases many years, and vice versa as well, there's a really rich interchange and you know. I say to the students they'll learn as much from the person sitting next to them as they will from us at the front of the room.
In my lifetime the world population has gone from 3.5 billion to 7.5 billion you can see the environmental consequences of that and the unsustainable conditions that go with it.
We're really passionate in this course to equip students with the leadership skills that they need to go out into the world and lead impactful change towards net-zero sustainable development. Let's actually supplement your in-class experiences of leadership with a whole range of other activities at the University, so when you go out into the world you actually can become a leader, and we take that incredibly seriously. This course is grounded in reality, it's realistic rather than idealistic about the world and I think that appealed to many applicants. It's a really exciting time to be doing this course and you're doing it at the top School of Geography in the world, at one of the world's best universities overall. It's a brand new course. it's exciting, it's innovative, the teaching team is really star-studded. These are the best of the best, we're just hugely excited about this programme and we really do welcome your applications.
Course design
In the post-Covid-19 world, leaders of enterprise will need to be increasingly resilient and able to cope with previously unseen levels of complexity and uncertainty. They will also need to lead with empathy and emotional intelligence, and foster diversity and inclusion through deeper levels of socio-cultural awareness.
The MSEE will provide you with both the academic knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in the post-pandemic landscape and play a leading role in reorienting the relationship between enterprise, society and the natural environment.
This course has three overarching aims, to:
- Develop a critical understanding of the nature, drivers and trajectories of climate change and economic development
- Examine the role of enterprise and its relationship to environmental and development challenges across a range of risks, technological innovations, investment opportunities and policy responses
- Enable students to integrate and apply their interdisciplinary knowledge, advanced methodological skills and science-policy-enterprise network to foster innovation and scalable progress toward net zero and sustainable development (NZSD).
The MSEE comprises:
- Eight core modules
- Two electives
- A 15,000-word dissertation.
Our approach combines directed teaching, self-regulated learning, structured engagement with enterprise and formal assessment.
Combined programmes
The MSEE can be coupled with an MBA as part of the Oxford 1+1 MBA programme.
Field trips will explore the role of enterprise in tackling the NZSD challenges.
- Induction field trip the week before the start of the course
- Two one-day trips in each of Michaelmas and Hilary Terms
- A week-long field trip at the end of Hilary Term.
During the week-long trip, you will visit a selected region to connect with individual companies and their supply chains in order to bring to life critical concepts and apply your learning.
Field trip costs are included in the course fee, and any specific accessibility issues will be taken into account when planning the visits.
Our course is taught through lectures, seminars and workshops, together with field trips, which provide in-depth exploration of key issues. The elective modules are tutorial-style with discussion, in smaller groups.
Teaching is delivered by academic staff from the Smith School and School of Geography and the Environment as well as other departments across the University. In addition, guest lectures from enterprise, such as the Smith School’s Business Fellows, add to the breadth of teaching expertise.
The course is structured across three terms, progressing from broad-based concepts and skills to increased application and engagement:
- Michaelmas Term: Nature and sources of climate emergency and development challenges, including scientific underpinnings and conceptual building blocks aimed at framing and understanding the problems and trade-offs posed by NZSD
- Hilary Term: Integrated assessment of potential solutions and pathways, offering applications and solutions
- Trinity Term: Implementation of knowledge and solutions through the enterprise forum and dissertation preparation.
Enterprise forum
The forum consists of weekly sessions, led by expert practitioners discussing different topics directly related to achieving the NZSD goals. The model is:
- Purpose and impact driven, guided by clearly defined challenges associated with NZSD
- Demand-driven, based on co-production, sustained and strategic dialogue with enterprise partners about their needs and the challenges they face, and the demand for innovation, knowledge, and skills
- Practical and realistic in terms of small, targeted actions and inputs – by both students and enterprise partners – that can produce outputs.
The Forum allows you to put your academic knowledge and skills into context and practice, and includes development of leadership skills, mentorship with business fellows, case-based learning, guest lectures and seminars on personal effectiveness. It provides an opportunity to create genuine working partnerships that are valuable for both enterprise and students.
Modules
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the role of private enterprise (business) as a cause of – but also solution to – social and environmental wicked problems such as climate change
- Determine opportunities and challenges for new forms of collaboration and innovation between public, private and nongovernmental organisations.
- Critically analyse the past, present and future of business models and value chains and the implications of models for getting to net-zero, sustainable development
- Account for the multiple and often conflicting interests between private enterprise and their stakeholders; appreciate the role of incentive and disincentive structures as a medium for changing the behaviour of enterprise
- Critically situate the place of private enterprise within broader systems and explain the interdependencies between private enterprise, society and nature.
- Critically analyse the role of the scientific method of inquiry in the production of knowledge and evaluate how and why scientific data is used by different actors within society
- Understand and apply qualitative and quantitative methods to measure progress and attribute impact pertaining to NZSD
- Comprehend the strengths, weaknesses and limitations of different methodological approaches and demonstrate sound judgement in selecting and applying the optimal approach to the given context
- Apply a critical lens to data and data-driven methods – including biases – and analyse how data is used in decision-making pertaining to NZSD
- Understand, and apply in the context of NZSD, advanced techniques in data science, complexity science and AI.
- Identify the limitations of conventional economic models for addressing NZSD
- Integrate new thinking “outside” of conventional economics (e.g. complexity theory, climate science) into economic and policy analysis
- Become comfortable using analytical frameworks that capture multiple equilibria, coordination, complementarities, lock-in, path dependence, and tipping points.
- Draw insights from complex datasets such as patent, social, and export networks
- Acquire the ability to go from real-world problems with these features to possible solutions.
- Understand and contextualise disruptive drivers that are re-shaping economic, social and environmental relationships
- Engage critically with these issues through the lens of infrastructure and technology and debate the implications of globalisation and urbanisation for NZSD.
- Develop an applied understanding of constructive responses to these disruptive drivers.
- Develop sufficient understanding to navigate and critically analyse the key aspects and developments in sustainable finance and investment.
- Engage critically with systems and theories in sustainable finance and investment.
- Consider how to translate knowledge into strategies for effective engagement with the financial sector.
- Compare and critique frameworks for contextualising, understanding and applying the dynamics of sociotechnical transitions and interventions that might drive and accelerate change towards net zero sustainable development.
- Engage critically with this goal through the lens of understanding the speed of transition possible in each of the socio-technical frontiers of policymaking, finance, law, behaviours and norms, and technologies, and understand their potential for cascading interaction.
- Identify and constructively stimulate interventions in each of these socio-technical frontiers to drive sustainable decarbonisation, and critically analyse the strengths, weaknesses and trade-offs of different approaches.
- Engage in benchmarking and comparative exercises, through case studies, to critically analyse both successful and less successful transitions and interventions and derive takeaways from these examples.
- Identify the causes and consequences of institutional and market failures to value and manage natural capital
- Understand and compare different models of governing natural capital and identify strengths and weaknesses of different types across a range of contexts
- Learn and apply methods for designing and evaluating natural capital markets and institutions, whilst leveraging and integrating relevant natural science and technical knowledge.
- Examine and debate case studies of valuing and managing natural capital across climate, energy, water, food and biodiversity
- Introduce social theory and methods related to social inequalities and water risks;
- Examine and evaluate methods, concepts and frameworks in the context of water-related enterprise;
- Explore processes shaping global and national discourse and debates related to sustainable development goals;
- Apply methods, concepts and frameworks to case study material on how water inequalities interact with natural science perspectives and water management practices.
- Three 3-hour unseen written examinations in Trinity Term.
- Two written essays of no more than 4,000 words plus a 150-word abstract on your selected elective subjects.
- The 15,000-word dissertation, due in the first week of September.
An independent and original dissertation is an integral component of the course. We offer a suite of training activities to enable you to execute high quality independent and original research, and introduce you to applied research methods used widely in academic and professional research.
The Course Director and University Careers Service will work closely with you from the outset to understand your aims, and where you see your career heading after the course. A degree from the University of Oxford – particularly an innovative MSc with a topical focus from the top-ranked School of Geography and the Environment – is highly sought after by employers.
Graduates from MScs within the School of Geography and the Environment often go on to prominent positions within government departments, non-governmental organisations, business organisations and international agencies. Many use their degree to pivot their career towards a particular goal. MSEE equips students with many of the skills and a knowledge base to pursue other pathways, such as an entrepreneurial career, or further study such as a DPhil/PhD.
Teaching team
The MSEE is taught by experts from the University of Oxford School of Geography and the Environment, and draws on expertise from across the University, including the Saïd Business School, the Blavatnik School, the Oxford Department of International Development and the Department of Economics.
Applying & selection criteria
Applications are made via the University of Oxford central graduate admissions. Applications for 2022 to 2023 are now closed, applications for 2023 to 2024 will open on 1 September 2023.
Apply for MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment
Central graduate admissions
| Date | Description |
|---|---|
12:00 midday UK time date TBC | Applications more likely to receive earlier decisions |
12:00 midday UK time date TBC | Latest deadline for most Oxford scholarships Final application deadline for entry in 2023 to 2024 |
Proven and potential academic excellence
Degree-level qualifications
- As a minimum, you should hold or be predicted to achieve the equivalent of a UK first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours, in any discipline.
- If your degree is from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.7 out of 4.0.
- If your degree is not from the UK or the USA, visit our International Qualifications page for guidance on the qualifications and grades that would usually be considered to meet the University’s minimum entry requirements.
Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience
- You should demonstrate an interest in sustainable development and net zero, and intersections with enterprise. Evidence of any relevant practice experience should be outlined, but is not required.
English language requirement
Candidates will be asked to provide:
- Official transcripts
- A CV
- A personal statement of up to two pages
- An essay of up to 2,000 words
- Three references
Your application should be supported by three written references, at least two of which must be academic, giving evidence of intellectual ability, academic achievement and motivation, and ability to work effectively both independently and with others. Please contact the Course Director if you are unable to provide two academic references.
Please note: No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.
The University of Oxford, School of Geography and the Environment, and Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment are committed to fostering an inclusive culture which promotes equality, values diversity and maintains a working, learning and social environment in which the rights and dignity of all its staff and students are respected.
You can find out more about the University of Oxford’s stance and policies on equality, diversity and inclusion on the University’s website.
For the 2022–23 academic year, likely living costs for full-time study is between £1,215 and £1,755 for each month spent in Oxford. Full information, including a breakdown of costs in Oxford for items such as food, accommodation and study costs, is available on the University’s living costs page.
University-wide scholarships
Scholarships are usually awarded on the basis of academic excellence and potential.
There are over 1,100 full or partial graduate scholarships available across the University. You will be automatically considered for over two-thirds of Oxford scholarships, if you fulfil the eligibility criteria and submit your graduate application by the relevant January deadline. Many of these scholarships also assist with accommodation and living expenses. Further information on the University website.
Some University-wide scholarships relevant to MSc SEE are:
- The Rhodes Scholarship, arguably the world’s most prestigious academic scholarship, the Rhodes Scholarship covers all tuition fees and provides a stipend for living expenses. The Oxford 1+1 option (MSEE + MBA) can also be taken as part of a Rhodes scholar’s study plan. There is a separate application process for the Rhodes Scholarship.
- The Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships and Leadership Programme
- The Oxford-Indira Gandhi Graduate Scholarship, tenable at Somerville College and for Indian nationals or graduates of Indian universities.
MSc MSEE-specific scholarships
Lack of financial resources should not be a barrier to talent. In recognition of this, we offer a number of scholarships specifically for the MSEE. You do not need to complete a separate application, in most cases you will be eligible by having applied for MSEE. We may ask you to complete a short statement to assist us in making decisions on awards.
Applicants can and often do receive more than one scholarship. An outstanding applicant may receive a number of smaller scholarships to the total amount needed to cover full tuition fees for MSEE and one year’s living expenses.
We regularly add to the list below as we continue to receive support from generous benefactors.
The Aurora Energy Research Scholarships
Aurora Energy Research Ltd has donated £500,000 for nine scholarships to be awarded between 2021–2026, as well as a founding gift to the Smith School’s Director’s Fund. Two scholarships will be awarded to students starting MSc SEE in October 2022. The scholarships cover tuition fees and an allowance for living costs.
The Linbury Scholarship
The Smith School is grateful to The Linbury Trust for continuing to support the Smith School by funding scholarships in MSc SEE. A full scholarship will be awarded to one student in each of the next three years. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and financial need.
Partnership with Reuben College
Reuben College is generously providing an Oxford-Reuben Access Scholarship for a student on MSc SEE, or a DPhil, for entry in 2023/24.
Reuben College was founded to focus on interdisciplinary research that addresses 21st century challenges; Environmental Change is one of the College’s four research themes. The community’s values align closely with those of MSc SEE and the Smith School more widely: impact-driven, entrepreneurial, innovative and inclusive.
Professor Sam Fankhauser, Academic Director of MSc SEE, is an Official Fellow of Reuben College.
Oxford FirstRand Scholarships
Applicants for the MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment, ordinarily resident in South Africa, and have not previously studied at a university outside of South Africa. The successful applicant will demonstrate the potential to be a destiny changer, to rise to a position of leadership and influence. This scholarship is for full-time study only and offers full course fees, plus maintenance expenses for a single postgraduate living in College accommodation.
These scholarships aim to attract applicants from South Africa who demonstrate the greatest potential to become the leaders, influencers, decision-makers, and opinion-makers of the future.
To for more information and application process visit the FirstRand website.
Other Scholarships available:
Bradley Wilson Scholarship in Geography and the Environment
SoGE MSc scholarship for UK Black and Mixed-Black Applicants
Graduate stories
Claudia Herbert Colfer, Linbury Scholar
Katherine Polkinghorne, Weidenfeld-Hoffman Scholar
Disclaimer: The information appearing on this website / in this document is to be used as a guide only. The final and binding details pertaining to cost, selection criteria and required documents for application are those appearing on the central University of Oxford graduate admissions website. The final and binding details pertaining to course structure and content will be those given in the MSc SEE course handbook in September 2022. Covid-19-related restrictions may mean that some minor to moderate changes have to be made to the inaugural cohort of the course – for example, some components being taught online, and field trips being local rather than regional/international. Meeting selection criteria does not assure selection. It is likely that the course will be oversubscribed, meaning many qualified candidates may miss out on a place. The teaching staff list is subject to change.
MSc News
Europe is seeing “devastating” rise in health harms from extreme weather events, experts warn
Dr Laurence Wainwright comments on the latest European State of the Climate report, which found that instances of extreme heat and other climate events are continuing to rise in Europe. "While most people understand that extreme heat creates problems for physical health, there is far less understanding of the considerable impacts that it presents for mental health—especially for those with an underlying psychiatric condition," he said.
Smith School MSc graduate Lucy Lyons listed in Forbes 30 under 30
Lucy Lyons, a graduate of the Oxford Smith School’s MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment, is featured in this year’s coveted Forbes 30 under 30 list, in the technology category.
Claudia Herbert Colfer on the impact of the Oxford Smith School MSc
2021-22 Oxford Smith School alum Claudia Herbert Colfer was a programme coordinator in the UN Global Compact when she enrolled on the Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment’s MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment.
In brief
| Fees | |
|---|---|
| Start date | 1 October 2024 |
| Duration | 12 months |
| Time commitment | Full time |
| Location | Oxford |
| Home | £27,660 |
| Overseas | £43,170 |
Deadlines
- Applications for 2024/25 intake are now closed
Contact
Dr Laurence Wainwright: mscenquiries@smithschool.ox.ac.uk