Sustainable Resources: Economics, Policy and Transitions MSc
London, Bloomsbury
This is the programme information for 2025 entry
Globally we are unsustainably using our natural resources, causing major environmental, social and political challenges. This sustainability master’s degree equips you with the skills and knowledge for a career driving change across business and policy, promoting efficient, circular, equitable and sustainable resource use. Our interdisciplinary curriculum focuses on the environmental, social, and economic aspects of managing resources from public policy and business perspectives.
Study mode
Overseas tuition fees (2025/26)
Duration
Programme starts
Applications accepted
Applications open
Applications open
Entry requirements
A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard in an appropriate subject (earth science, economics, political sciences, geography, physical sciences, law, engineering or related subject). These requirements may be relaxed for students who can demonstrate considerable and relevant aptitude and experience, for example, in business or government. Please clearly state in your personal statement how your educational or employment background (including any internships or projects) relates to the programme and what you aim to achieve through your studies.
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The English language level for this programme is: Level 2
UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.
Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.
Equivalent qualifications
Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website.
International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.
About this degree
The Sustainable Resources: Economics Policy and Transitions MSc addresses the urgent global issue of unsustainable resource use and its impacts on climate change, ecosystem collapse, and political instability. This interdisciplinary sustainability degree covers economics, political science, engineering, natural sciences, business studies, and sociology, offering a comprehensive view of global resource challenges. You will acquire in-depth knowledge and practical tools to manage and govern resources from both public policy and business perspectives, while also embracing social and environmental justice. This systemic approach equips you to tackle environmental, social, and economic aspects of resource management, preparing you to address these global challenges in your future career.
During your degree you will:
- Learn the fundamentals of natural resources and how to manage them sustainably, exploring the interconnections between different natural resources and their impacts climate change, justice, politics and governance.
- Explore the economics and policy behind natural resources supply, use and conservation, exploring case studies on renewable and non-renewable resources including forests, mining, agriculture, land and water resources.
- Learn how different international policies influence the sustainable management of natural resources
- Master tools to assess sustainable resource use ready to apply in your future career
- Examine future pathways and visions, reviewing the steps needed to achieve various roadmaps and scenarios.
- Learn how environmental and ecological economics can address environmental problems, such as climate change, sustainable development and pollution.
- Explore your own interests by choosing from optional modules spanning resource governance in the Global South, behavioural economics, innovation and sustainability in business, modelling and visualisation of the resource nexus and more.
Who this course is for
This degree is suited for both recent graduates looking to build their sustainability career, and early to mid-career professionals looking to expand their knowledge of sustainable resources. Your academic background could be either in a quantitative subject – such as economics, engineering, natural sciences physical sciences, geography – or in a non-quantitative subject such as law, business studies or other related subjects with a demonstrable aptitude for quantitative methods. If your background is from a non-quantitative subject, we will provide some introductory readings to help you prepare before your studies.
What this course will give you
Research-led world-class education
You will learn from academic experts, actively shaping the sustainable use of natural resources in policy and industry around the world. Our faculty is a multidisciplinary hub for education and research, uniquely positioned to tackle some of the most crucial issues facing society and our planet. Our faculty, The Bartlett, has been ranked #1 for Built Environment studies in the world (QS World University Rankings 2024). The Bartlett is also where the UK’s most ‘World Leading’ and ‘Internationally Excellent’ built environment research is undertaken (REF 2021).
Launch your career shaping sustainable resource use
Upon graduation, you will join our global network of alumni, who are now leveraging the skills and knowledge gained during their degrees in influential sustainability careers. Studying in London significantly enhances your networking prospects, as the city is a hub for industry events, conferences, and seminars. London is also the best city for students in the world (QS Best Student Cities 2025).
Put theory into practice
During this master‘s degree, you will engage in hands-on learning by analysing real-world case studies, interacting with experts and guest lectures, and attending site visits. Through case studies, you will engage with practical scenarios, critically analyse problems, and develop problem-solving strategies that mirror professional challenges. Site visits further enhance this learning by offering direct exposure to industry practices, operational processes, and on-the-ground realities, fostering a deeper understanding of how concepts translate into practice. These experiential learning opportunities not only build practical skills but also bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional application.
The foundation of your career
97% of Sustainable Resources: Economics, Policy and Transitions MSc students were in work or further study within 15 months of graduating (HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey 2017-2021).
Our alumni work in a broad range of sustainability-related career roles. Some examples include Environmental, Social and Governance Consultant, Strategy Consultant, Research Analyst, Innovation Officer, Environmental Economist, Environmental Scientist, Specialist in Environmental Law, Business Development Lead, and Policy & Public Affairs Officer.
Notable organisations where our graduates work include PwC, SMBC, Deloitte, Veolia, Natural Capital, Carbon Trust, Carbon Care Asia, Deloitte, European Commission, Alexander McQueen, Savannah Energy, Apple, Shell, XCO2, Reuters, the UK Government and city councils. Some of our graduates also go on to pursue further study and PhD research, for example in the areas of circular economy or critical minerals, using the academic networks from the MSc course.
Alumni testimonials
“The Sustainable Resources MSc was helpful in developing a systems thinking approach to different sustainability challenges, a crucial skill for any professional in the field to find impactful solutions to the complex and interconnected reality of climate change." - Gregorio Giorgi, Associate at the Carbon Trust after graduation
“The MSc in Sustainable Resources program has greatly enhanced my expertise and skills in decarbonisation. This programme uniquely integrates technical, strategic, and policy implementations, cultivating students to become effective problem solvers in addressing the pressing challenges of the climate crisis." - Fitria Wulandari, Investor Relations at Pertamina Group
Read more about careers in sustainability and our alumni’s experiences ►
Employability
Upon graduation, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the key challenges surrounding sustainable resource use, supply and demand drivers, and future strategies for global resource management. You will be well-versed in various methods, models, and concepts, including the Resource Nexus, material flow analysis, life cycle analysis, footprints, macroeconomics, policy mixes, foresight and scenario techniques and, depending on your chosen optional modules, water-energy-food modelling and behavioural economics. Additionally, you will develop valuable skills for future employment, such as effective communication, teamwork, problem-solving, decision-making under uncertainty, intercultural communication, interdisciplinary collaboration, and working in business contexts.
In addition to the core UCL Careers provision, as a student at The Bartlett you will have access to a mix of faculty-wide and department-specific support and activities to bolster your career development. Open across the Faculty, this includes a programme of lively industry panel discussions and interactive workshops, spotlighting the key sectors graduates typically venture into such as construction, consultancy, commercial property and urban planning and development.
Additionally, The Bartlett’s Building a Better Future Consultancy Project will give you a unique opportunity to collaborate in a multidisciplinary team to tackle a real world challenge the built environment is grappling with, equipping you with the in-demand skills sought after by employers. Featured organisations in this programme include global consultancies such as BuroHappold, Hoare Lea, AtkinsRealis to burgeoning start-ups and SMEs as well as local councils and not-for-profit organisations such as C40 Cities, Greater London Authority and London authorities.
On a departmental level, you will receive a bespoke provision of practical workshops led by experienced Career Consultants that cover crucial topics of your career planning such as developing your networking skills and how to successfully navigate the job search.
Networking
We provide numerous networking opportunities to foster invaluable connections for our students. Many modules in this master’s degree feature guest speakers, industry leaders, and experts, offering students the chance to build significant relationships. During the dissertation module, students collaborate with members of the UCL Institute for Sustainable Resources and benefit from their extensive industry contacts. Our Institute's strong industry ties ensure that you will gain real-world insights and explore potential career pathways.
Additionally, we host alumni events where current and former students can connect and collaborate. Your peers form an international, interdisciplinary network of professionals passionate about sustainability and resource efficiency. This multifaceted approach to networking will equip you with the skills and connections necessary to excel in the field of sustainable resources.
Teaching and learning
The course is delivered using a diverse array of teaching techniques. Lectures provide foundational knowledge and expert insights, often featuring presentations from visiting speakers. Seminars and tutorials foster active participation and critical discussion amongst you and your peers, enhancing your analytical skills and deepening understanding. Collaborative group projects promote teamwork and practical application, while case study analyses and workshops will help you tackle complex issues and develop problem-solving abilities. Additionally, we utilise an online platform for resource sharing, preparation, and revision.
Throughout your degree you will be assessed through written examinations, coursework, group work including class presentations, and a dissertation.
In Terms 1 and 2, full-time students can typically expect between eight and 15 contact hours per teaching week. The remainder of the 37.5 full-time hour week should be dedicated towards self-directed study. In Term 3, you should be in regular contact with your dissertation supervisor and otherwise work independently on your dissertation.
Modules
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Full-time students complete the course in one year and can expect to study for 37.5 hours per week during term time.
You will undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. This comprises core modules (90 credits), optional modules (30 credits), and a dissertation (60 credits). You take four core modules in term 1, followed by two core module and two optional modules in term 2. The dissertation skills module runs across terms 1 and 2. In term 3 students work on their dissertation.
Our Term 1 core modules provide essential knowledge in:
- The fundamental principles of relevance to natural resources and the challenges of managing them sustainably
- The economic principles behind the supply, use and conservation of key natural resources
- How to use policies for managing natural resources in a more sustainable way
- Some of the key methodological tools for understanding the flow of resources through the economy and assessing the sustainability of resource use
These modules build the foundations of your knowledge in this complex area of sustainable resource management, and of your economics and policy analysis skills.
In Term 2, these foundations are developed and refined. In the two core modules in Term 2, you will study the practical application of how economic activity and policy affect the environment in which we live, and strategies and key concepts for identifying viable resource futures. You will also dive deeper into the areas which most interested you from Term 1 by selecting two optional modules.
Our selection of optional modules enables you to find your own path, shaped by your interests and career aspirations. You can dive deeper into social science theories used to understand energy related behaviours and lifestyles, the role of industrial ecology and industrial symbiosis in moving towards more sustainable industrial systems, the economics of international trade, quantitative models for research, resource governance and the Global South, business sustainability, risk management, data analytics, social value, and more.
Throughout the year you will also develop your research skills in the dissertation module, with classes in Term 1 and 2 on study design, data collection, critical analysis skills and more. In Term 3 and the summer, you will complete assessments for Term 2 modules and those modules with unseen written examinations. You will also work on your dissertation. This is an opportunity to pursue in-depth, innovative research on a topic of your choice within the field of sustainable resources with guidance from a dedicated supervisor.
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Part-time students complete the full course over two years.
You will undertake modules to the value of 180 credits over the full duration of their course. This comprises core modules (90 credits), optional modules (30 credits), and a dissertation (60 credits).
As a part-time student, in your first year you will take two modules in terms 1 and 2. In your second year you take two modules in term 1, two modules in term 2, and complete your dissertation research in term 3. Some term 2 modules may have pre-requisites.
Our Term 1 core modules provide essential knowledge in:
- The fundamental principles of relevance to natural resources and the challenges of managing them sustainably
- The economic principles behind the supply, use and conservation of key natural resources
- How to use policies for managing natural resources in a more sustainable way
- Some of the key methodological tools for understanding the flow of resources through the economy and assessing the sustainability of resource use
These modules build the foundations of your knowledge in this complex area of sustainable resource management, and of your economics and policy analysis skills.
In Term 2, these foundations are developed and refined. The economic principles and methodological tools modules from Term 1 are pre-requisites for the two core modules in Term 2, where you will study the practical application of how economic activity and policy affect the environment in which we live, and strategies and key concepts for identifying viable resource futures. You must take the pre-requisite Term 1 core modules before taking the Term 2 core modules.
You will also dive deeper into the areas which most interested you from Term 1 by selecting two optional modules. Our selection of optional modules enables you to find your own path, shaped by your interests and career aspirations. You can dive deeper into social science theories used to understand energy related behaviours and lifestyles, the role of industrial ecology and industrial symbiosis in moving towards more sustainable industrial systems, the economics of international trade, quantitative models for research, resource governance and the Global South, business sustainability, risk management, data analytics, social value, and more.
Throughout your second year you will also develop your research skills in the dissertation module, with classes in Term 1 and 2 on study design, data collection, critical analysis skills and more. In Term 3 of your second year and the summer, you will also work on your dissertation. This is an opportunity to pursue in-depth, innovative research on a topic of your choice within the field of sustainable resources with guidance from a dedicated supervisor.
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The flexible option allows you to complete your studies within five years. Study is undertaken on a module-by-module basis, with the student accumulating credit by selecting which module(s) to complete in any given year. Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits over the full duration of their course. This comprises core modules (90 credits), optional modules (30 credits), and a dissertation (60 credits). Some Term 2 modules may have pre-requisites.
Our Term 1 core modules provide essential knowledge in:
- The fundamental principles of relevance to natural resources and the challenges of managing them sustainably
- The economic principles behind the supply, use and conservation of key natural resources
- How to use policies for managing natural resources in a more sustainable way
- Some of the key methodological tools for understanding the flow of resources through the economy and assessing the sustainability of resource use
These modules build the foundations of your knowledge in this complex area of sustainable resource management, and of your economics and policy analysis skills.
In Term 2, these foundations are developed and refined. The economic principles and methodological tools modules from Term 1 are pre-requisites for the two core modules in Term 2, where you will study the practical application of how economic activity and policy affect the environment in which we live, and strategies and key concepts for identifying viable resource futures. You must take the pre-requisite Term 1 core modules before taking the Term 2 core modules, but you do not need to take them in the same year.
You will also dive deeper into the areas which most interested you from Term 1 by selecting two optional modules. Our selection of optional modules enables you to find your own path, shaped by your interests and career aspirations. You can dive deeper into social science theories used to understand energy related behaviours and lifestyles, the role of industrial ecology and industrial symbiosis in moving towards more sustainable industrial systems, the economics of international trade, quantitative models for research, resource governance and the Global South, business sustainability, risk management, data analytics, social value, and more.
Throughout your final year you will also develop your research skills in the dissertation module, with classes in Term 1 and 2 on study design, data collection, critical analysis skills and more. In Term 3 of your second year and the summer, you will also work on your dissertation. This is an opportunity to pursue in-depth, innovative research on a topic of your choice within the field of sustainable resources with guidance from a dedicated supervisor.
Compulsory modules
Optional modules
Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability are subject to change. Modules that are in use for the current academic year are linked for further information. Where no link is present, further information is not yet available.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. Upon successful completion of 180 credits, you will be awarded an MSc in Sustainable Resources: Economics, Policy and Transitions.
Fieldwork
Depending on your module choices you may have the opportunity to attend optional site visits to explore relevant sustainable resource challenges in situ. These site visits will not contribute towards your final grade.
Accessibility
Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble. Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services team.
Fees and funding
Fees for this course
| Fee description | Full-time | Part-time |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition fees (2025/26) | £20,500 | £10,250 |
| Tuition fees (2025/26) | £36,500 | £18,250 |
Programme also available on a modular (flexible) basis.
The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees.
Additional costs
For Full-time and Part-time offer holders a fee deposit will be charged at 10% of the first year fee.
For flexible/modular offer holders a £500 fee deposit will be charged.
Further information can be found in the Tuition fee deposits section on this page: Tuition fees.
All students will be expected to pay their travel costs for any site visits in London and you should budget £15 to £20 per day for subsistence on these short trips. You should expect to budget £80 for this across the year for site visits in London, based on last year. There will not be a charge for any other field trips or site visits which may be offered as optional activities.
If you are concerned by potential additional costs for books, equipment, etc on this course, please get in touch with the BSEER Programme Administration team by e-mailing bseer-studentqueries@ucl.ac.uk.
UCL’s main teaching locations are in zones 1 (Bloomsbury) and zones 2/3 (UCL East). The cost of a monthly 18+ Oyster travel card for zones 1-2 is £114.50. This price was published by TfL in 2024. For more information on additional costs for prospective students and the cost of living in London, please view our estimated cost of essential expenditure at UCL's cost of living guide.
Funding your studies
UCL offers a range of financial awards aimed at assisting both prospective and current students with their studies.
In our faculty, The Bartlett Promise Scholarship aims to enable students from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue Master's studies. Please see the UK Master's scholarship and Sub-Saharan Africa Master's scholarship pages for more information on eligibility criteria, selection process and FAQs.
For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website.
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Bartlett Promise Sub-Saharan Africa Masters Scholarship
Deadline: 28 March 2025Value: Fees, stipend and other allowances (Duration of programme)Criteria Based on financial needEligibility: EU, OverseasBartlett Promise UK Master's Scholarship
Deadline: 31 May 2025Value: Tuition fees plus £15,864 maintenance/yr (Duration of programme)Criteria Based on financial needEligibility: UK
Next steps
Students are advised to apply as early as possible due to competition for places. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.
There is an application processing fee for this programme of £90 for online applications. Further information can be found at Application fees.
When we access your application, we would like to learn:
- Why you want to study Sustainable Resources: Economics, Policy and Transitions at graduate level
- Why you want to study Sustainable Resources: Economics, Policy and Transitions at UCL
- What particularly attracts you to the chosen course
- How your academic and professional background meets the demands of this challenging course
- Where you would like to go professionally with your degree
Together with essential academic requirements, the personal statement is your opportunity to illustrate whether your reasons for applying to this course match what the course will deliver.
Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.
Choose your programme
Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.
Got questions? Get in touch
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