Sustainability Studies
Sustainable Business

Sustainability Studies

In times of growing ecological challenges and social inequalities, the concept of sustainability is becoming increasingly important. Sustainability studies offer the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills to actively contribute to a sustainable future. But what exactly does it mean to study sustainability, what are the different areas of specialization, and why is it so important for society? This article sheds light on the various aspects of sustainability studies and shows the prospects and opportunities that arise for students and society.

DID YOU KNOW?

In 2024, Munich Business School secured the top spot among private universities of applied sciences in the field of business administration from a recruitment perspective for the fifth time in a row.

What is Sustainability?

Sustainability is a concept that aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It is based on the idea of using and managing natural resources in a way that ensures long-term environmental, social and economic stability.

The concept of sustainability is often broken down into three dimensions:

  1. Environmental sustainability: Protecting and preserving the natural environment to maintain biodiversity, limit climate change and preserve the Earth's resources for future generations.
  2. Economic sustainability: Developing economic models that enable long-term growth without damaging the environment or increasing social inequalities. This includes promoting a circular economy in which resources are used and reused efficiently.
  3. Social sustainability: creating just and resilient communities that provide for basic human needs such as education, health and social justice.

Sustainability seeks to balance these three areas to ensure a future that is both environmentally sound and livable for all people.

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Sustainability Studies Requirements

To successfully complete a sustainability degree and later work in this field, certain prerequisites, skills and personal qualities are helpful:

Personal Qualities

  • Ability to work in a team: Since projects in the field of sustainability are often interdisciplinary, teamwork is essential.
  • Commitment and motivation: An intrinsic motivation to contribute to solving global challenges.
  • Sense of responsibility: An awareness of one's own actions and their impact on the environment and society.
  • Flexibility and adaptability: Openness to new developments and the ability to adapt to changing requirements.
  • Ethics and integrity: A clear position on social and ecological values.

These requirements, skills and characteristics help students to overcome the challenges of a sustainability degree and to succeed in professions in this field.

MBS Master International Business - No. 1 Focus

The following diagram shows that Sustainable Business is the No. 1 focus for a better future for the MBS Master International Business degree program.

Why study Sustainability?

Studying sustainability not only provides a deeper understanding of the challenges our world faces, but also offers the chance to actively contribute to solutions. Here are some reasons why it makes sense to study sustainability:

  1. Important contribution to society: Sustainability students acquire knowledge and skills to actively participate in addressing global challenges such as climate change, environmental degradation and social injustice. This makes the course a meaningful and socially relevant field of work.
  2. Interdisciplinary apprenticeship: A sustainability degree combines various disciplines such as environmental science, economics, social science and politics. This provides a holistic perspective and prepares graduates to analyze and approach complex problems from different angles.
  3. Growing job opportunities: Companies, organizations and governments are increasingly looking for professionals who can develop and implement sustainable practices. Sustainability management, consulting, research and education are just a few of the many career opportunities available to graduates.
  4. Future-oriented skills: Students learn to develop innovative and sustainable solutions, think critically and take responsibility. These skills are not only in demand in the environmental sector, but also in industries such as energy, technology and construction.
  5. Contribution to personal development: A course of study in sustainability not only promotes technical knowledge, but also a deep awareness of one's own actions and their impact on the world. It teaches how to deal with responsibility and ethical decisions.

In summary, a course of study in sustainability is an investment in the future, both for one's own professional career and for the protection of the environment and the well-being of future generations.

Sustainability studies at Munich Business School

At Munich Business School, you can study International Business in the Master's program with a focus on sustainability. This gives you the perfect mix of Business Studies knowledge and sustainable business experience to shape your future according to your ideas. These are the most important facts about studying at MBS:

Duration of study:

18 or 24 Months

Degree:

Master of Arts

Start of studies:

February & September

Degree program:

Master in International Business

Language of study:

English

Tuition fees:

EUR 8.580 per Semester

Form of study:

In person at the campus in Munich

Highlights:

Choose your own Specialization & include a Semester abroad

Areas of focus:

7 areas of focus, including Sustainable Business

This is what you will learn in sustainability studies

course content of Sustainability

Introduction to Sustainability Fundamentals and definitions of sustainability, its ecological, social and economic dimensions.
Environmental Sciences Ecosystems, biodiversity, climate change, air and water pollution, and sustainable resource management.
Sustainable Economy Concepts of circular economy, sustainable business, environmental economics and their applications in various industries.
Social Science Perspectives Social justice, development policy and ethical issues of sustainability.
Climate protection and energy transition Strategies for reducing CO2 emissions, renewable energies and technological developments to promote a clean energy supply.
Environmental management and law Guidelines, environmental certification, environmental law and regulatory requirements for companies and organizations.
Data collection and analysis methods Statistical methods, qualitative research and analysis tools for evaluating ecological and social projects.
Project and innovation management Planning, implementing and managing projects that promote sustainable solutions.
Communication and public relations Strategies for communicating sustainability issues and communicating effectively with different target groups.
Practical project work and case studies Applying real-life scenarios to gain practical experience and transfer theory into practice.

The content of a sustainability degree program covers a wide range of topics to prepare students for the complex challenges in the field of sustainability. This content offers a comprehensive apprenticeship that is interdisciplinary and provides both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Sustainability or Business Studies with a focus on sustainability?

Studies in Business Studies with a focus on sustainability offer a valuable combination of in-depth economic knowledge and specialized sustainability know-how.

While a course of study dedicated to sustainability provides in-depth knowledge of ecological and social issues, combining it with Business Studies gives you a broader and more strategic understanding. This is because, to successfully implement sustainable approaches, it is crucial to also understand economic interrelationships and business management tools.
With a solid foundation in Business Studies and a specialization in sustainability, you will not only be able to develop sustainable practices, but also implement them efficiently and cost-effectively in companies. You will learn to strategically anchor sustainability in a way that is economically viable at the same time. This is particularly in demand as companies are increasingly striving to combine ecological and social responsibility with economic success.
In addition, the combination of Business Studies and sustainability makes you a sought-after specialist who has both the economic and the sustainable know-how to excel in management positions. This dual expertise opens up a wider range of career opportunities for you and gives you an advantage in the job market – whether you are looking for a job in a company, an NGO or a public organization that wants to reconcile sustainable goals with economic success.

Studying Business Studies at Munich Business School

MBS not only offers you a first-class Business Studies program, but also focuses on international business so that you can easily pursue your chosen career anywhere in the world after graduation. The Master International Business at MBS offers many highlights such as semesters abroad, internships, business projects, plenty of networking opportunities and much more. At Munich Business School, you can expect small study groups, dedicated teachers and award-winning programs with many interesting specializations. But more importantly, you count as a person with us. Here, you are not an anonymous member, but the driving force that motivates us every morning. As a small, private university, we take time for your concerns and offer you a customized study experience. Our lecturers have extensive practical experience and teach you skills that really count. In addition to sound business knowledge, we also promote values and abilities that will teach you social responsibility as a future sustainability expert and optimally prepare you for a wide range of professions in your desired field.

Do you want to learn more about Business Studies?

For more information, please visit our page on the subject.

Business Studies

Benefits of the Munich Business School

MBS offers students many advantages that are particularly possible thanks to the structure of a private university of applied sciences. You will benefit from these during your studies at MBS:

Learn from Experts

Professors with business experience and specialists as guest lecturers

Individualized Support

Small class sizes and support from the Career Center, for example

Double Education

in Finance and Management

Becoming a Generalist and a Specialist at the same time

Wide-ranging Business Studies and specialized knowledge in several key areas

International Future Prospects

Staying abroad included & many Networking opportunities

That's how easy it is to study at MBS:

 

Personal Interview

 

Start your Studies

Structure and completion of sustainability studies

The program and completion of a sustainability degree are often clearly structured to prepare students comprehensively for their future work. Here is an overview:

Final phase (6th to 7th semester):

  • Preparation and execution of the final thesis (bachelor's or master's thesis).
  • Presentation of the work results and possibly an oral examination or defense.

Degree

  • Bachelor's degree: After about 3 to 4 years, students receive the academic degree of Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), depending on their focus.
  • Master's degree: Building on the bachelor's degree, a Master of Science (M.Sc.) or Master of Arts (M.A.) can be obtained in about 1.5 to 2 years.
  • Additional certificates: Some programs offer additional qualifications, e.g. in environmental management or CSR consulting.
  • Career prospects: With this degree, alumni are prepared for careers in companies, public institutions or NGOs that promote sustainable development and environmental protection.

This structured program ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, providing them with comprehensive preparation for the professional world.

The Master International Business with a focus on sustainability from MBS

Do you feel at home anywhere in the world and want to start an international career? Then the Master in International Business Management at MBS is perfect for you! You will not only deepen your knowledge of economics, but will also become an expert in various fields through individually selectable specializations, thus sharpening your personal profile. The integrated semester abroad will prepare you for specialist and management roles in the global economy. If you want to gain even more international experience, you can add a second semester abroad and thus obtain two specialized master's degrees in just two years – your international career will then be ready to take off with the Master in International Business Administration!
The course-specific modules of the Master's program in International Management prepare you optimally for your career in international business. To ensure a strong practical focus during your studies, the Master's program offers specific concentrations in addition to general business administration and courses in international marketing and international finance. In the first and second semesters, you choose two out of five or seven business concentrations, respectively, giving your studies an individual touch. You can choose from topics such as digital business management, international marketing or corporate strategy & innovation. These courses will enable you to deepen your skills and prepare you specifically for your future career.

International Focus

The studies at MBS focus on the international market. A large part of the course content is taught in English and MBS students come from all over the world.

Semester Abroad

Internationality is also expressed through the semester abroad. Students spend the last semester at one of our more than 60 partner universities around the world.

Business Project

Students work on a business project for a real company. In doing so, they apply the theoretical knowledge gained during their studies in practical applications.

Overview of all elective specializations in the Master International Business

The following scheme shows all specializations that you can take in your Master International Business studies at Munich Business School, including Sustainability.

The Focus: Sustainable Business

The English-language Master's in International Business with a focus on Sustainable Business at Munich Business School provides you with in-depth knowledge of sustainability management in three semesters. You will learn the principles of sustainable management, deal with complex topics such as circular economy and immerse yourself together with your fellow students in future-oriented scientific disciplines such as human-centered design and biomimicry to develop innovative sustainability methods based on the interaction between people and nature. You will spend the first two semesters on campus in Munich, where you will experience how sustainable business works in practice in interactive lectures and practical projects. You combine your focus on Sustainable Business with a further specialization such as Innovation & Digital Business or International Marketing, thus designing your Master's program in International Business entirely according to your own preferences.

In the third semester, you will transfer to one of our more than 60 partner universities worldwide. With locations on four continents, there is a wide selection to choose from. Finally, the Master's thesis rounds off your studies.

If you have any further questions or need more information, please do not hesitate to contact our student advisory service.

Looking to find out more?

Studienberater MBS: Uttamdeep Kaur, B.A.

Application

In order to qualify for the Master International Business study program, you must fulfill academic, linguistic, and to some extent professional requirements.

You may submit your application documents at any time. Since the places are limited, we advise you to apply for your desired study start as early as possible.

 

Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

The main requirement for admission to the Master International Business study program is a successful Bachelor's degree (180 ECTS or more). Applicants with a degree in Business Studies/Management/Economics are entitled to apply for the program directly, applicants without a degree in economics can qualify for the program by completing the Pre Master Program. Upon request, we will gladly verify your documents in advance. Please contact your Program Advisor.

Language Requirements

English Proficiency

Applicants must proof their English language skills by passing one of the following language tests:

  • TOEFL iBT & Home Edition: min. 85 (min. of 22 in writing band, min. of 20 in all other bands; MBS TOEFL Institution Code: 5772)
  • IELTS & IELTS Online: min. level of 6.5– Academic Module
  • ELS English for Academic Purposes: Advanced Level 112
  • Duolingo English Test: Overall Score 115 or higher
  • Pearson PTE Academic: Overall Score 56 or higher
  • Cambridge: Min. 173 or Grade B or higher

Note: If the test is also used to apply for a visa, please check the requirements of the respective embassy in advance.

Test results can only be accepted if achieved within the last two years. If you are unable to obtain your test results before handing in your MBS application, please inform us about your planned test date.

The English proficiency test can be waived by the following candidates:

  • Applicants having completed their schooling in English (i.e., High School Diploma, IB)
  • Applicants having completed their first academic degree in English

Application Deadline

Application deadlines in detail

We accept applications all year round. However, we recommend that you apply as early as possible, as the number of places is limited.

Spring semester (Master International Business only)

  • Application guideline for Europeans (no visa): December 10
  • Application guideline for non-Europeans (visa required): October 31

Applicants from Vietnam, China and India should allow an extra month to apply for the relevant visas.

Winter semester

  • Application guideline for Europeans (no visa): July 15
  • Application guideline for non-Europeans (visa required): April 30

Applicants from Vietnam, China and India should allow an extra month to apply for the relevant visas.

Application Process

Step 1: Putting together your application

You must submit the following mandatory documents for us to consider your written application:

  • Answers to motivational questions (choice of questions provided during the online application process)
  • CV/résumé
  • Current passport-style photo (in color, with a light background)
  • A copy of your school-leaving certificate(s)*
  • A copy of your undergraduate degree certificate (incl. transcripts)*
  • Evidence of adequate English language skills (TOEFL, IELTS or ELS)
  • References (if available)
  • Completed application form
  • If you are interested in scholarship programs: personal cover letter (1 page) 

*Please submit the relevant original document, or a certified copy, as soon as you are accepted onto the program. 

Online application:
Apply online for the Master’s program in International Business

Step 2: Admission to the program

Eligible applicants will be invited to a personal interview, either in person in Munich or online via Microsoft Teams (approx. 30–45 minutes). The interview may include examining a case study.

As soon as you are accepted onto the program, you will have the opportunity to get to know Munich Business School a little better – before you make the final decision about your studies. And, of course, our student advisors will be available to answer any questions you have.

Step 3: Study Contract

When we confirm your place, we will send you confirmation of your acceptance along with two copies of your study contact. To secure your place, please sign and return one copy of the contract to us within two weeks. You can keep the other copy for your files.

Additionally, in order to be formally accepted onto the program, you must pay a one-off matriculation fee of €690 (EU/EFTA) or €1,490 (non-EU) and make an advance payment of €1.990. This advance payment will be deducted from your first tuition fee payment.

Step 4: Student Visa

If you are a non-EU citizen, you must apply for a student visa in order to start your studies in Germany. You will require a letter of invitation from Munich Business School to secure your visa – which we will be happy to provide once we receive your signed student contract and a copy of your passport.

More about student Visa

Scholarships

Munich Business School offers attractive scholarship programs amount up to EUR 4,000 of the overall tuition fee. (Up to EUR 2,000 on the 1st and 2nd master's semester).

If you wish to apply for a scholarship, you should include an application when you submit your overall application. You can find further information on our scholarships and financing page.

Alumni Experience Report

My positive journey at Munich Business School ★★★★★

"Degree Content:
The curriculum at Munich Business School is comprehensive and relevant to today's business world.
Professors:
The faculty at MBS is one of its strongest assets. Professors are not only highly qualified in their fields but also approachable and supportive. They bring real-world experience into their teaching, which adds significant value to the learning process."

Chamaiporn auf StudyCHECK

Salary according to sustainability studies

The salary after studying sustainability can vary greatly depending on the professional field, experience and employer. Here are some examples of typical salary ranges in example occupations that alumni could take up after graduation:

  1. Sustainability manager:
    • Starting salary: approx. 40,000 – 50,000 EUR gross annually
    • With professional experience: up to 70,000 EUR and more, depending on the size of the company and the industry
  2. CSR Manager (Corporate Social Responsibility):
    • Starting salary: approx. 35,000 – 45,000 EUR gross per year
    • With several years of experience: approx. 60,000 – 80,000 EUR
  3. Environmental Consultant:
    • Starting salary: approx. 35,000 – 50,000 EUR gross per year
    • With experience: up to 65,000 EUR or higher, depending on the project and client network
  4. Climate protection manager:
    • Starting salary: approx. 38,000 – 48,000 EUR gross per year
    • Advanced salary: up to 70,000 EUR and more, especially in the public sector or at large NGOs
  5. Project manager for renewable energies:
    • Starting salary: approx. 45,000 – 55,000 EUR gross annually
    • With extensive professional experience: up to 80,000 EUR or more, depending on the size of the project and responsibility
  6. Energy consultant:
    • Starting salary: approx. 40,000 – 50,000 EUR gross per year
    • Experienced specialist: up to 70,000 EUR, especially at consulting companies

Factors influencing salary:

  • Employer: Large companies and international organizations tend to pay higher salaries than smaller companies or NGOs.
  • Region: Salaries vary depending on the location; large cities and urban centers often offer higher salaries than rural areas.
  • Professional experience and specialization: Advanced knowledge and specialized fields often lead to higher incomes.

Overall, the salary after a sustainability degree can reach an attractive level, especially if you specialize and gain professional experience.

The Munich Business School in Numbers

750+
Number of Students

60+
International Partner Universities

60+
Founded Startups

57 %
International Students

Career opportunities after studying sustainability

This table shows the wide range of possible occupations after studying sustainability.

Occupation Description
Sustainability manager Development and implementation of sustainability strategies in companies or organizations.
CSR manager Promotion and management of social and environmental projects within a company.
Environmental consultant Advice on environmentally friendly practices and compliance with environmental regulations.
Climate protection manager Planning and implementation of measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Project manager for renewable energies Implementation of projects in the field of sustainable energy sources such as solar and wind energy.
Sustainability officer in the public sector Development and promotion of sustainable strategies at various political levels.
Researcher or lecturer Conducting studies or teaching in the field of the environment and sustainability.
Consultant for sustainable financing Implementation of investment strategies that promote ecological and social responsibility.
Environmental scientist Research and analysis of environmental processes to develop solutions.
Urban planner for sustainable development Planning of cities with a focus on ecological and social aspects.
Conservation officer Management of biodiversity conservation programs for NGOs or governmental organizations.
Energy consultant Advising on improving energy efficiency and using sustainable energy sources.
Sustainable supply chain consultant Optimizing supply chains with regard to fair and environmentally friendly conditions.
Development cooperation project manager Managing sustainable projects in international organizations.
Sustainable product designer Designing resource-efficient and easily recyclable products.
Communications manager for environmental and sustainability issues Public relations work to raise awareness of sustainability and environmental protection.

DID YOU KNOW?

After an MBS Bachelor's or Master's degree, you can also take up all these professions abroad without any problems.

3 examples of careers in the field of sustainability

The diversity of sustainability is reflected in a number of exciting professional fields. Here is a closer look at three examples of professions:

Sustainability Manager

The main task of a sustainability manager is to develop and implement sustainable strategies in companies. This includes monitoring projects to conserve resources, reporting on environmental indicators and training employees. This profession is special because it directly contributes to making a company more environmentally friendly and promotes sustainable business practices.

Sustainable Supply Chain Consultant

Optimizes supply chains to ensure they function under fair and environmentally friendly conditions. Responsibilities include analyzing production processes, ensuring ethical standards and working with suppliers to improve sustainability. The profession is special because it helps companies combine social responsibility with economic success.

FAQ

What is a Master's in Sustainability?

A Master in Sustainability is a postgraduate program that provides you with in-depth knowledge and skills to address ecological, economic and social challenges. You will learn to develop sustainable strategies, lead projects and find innovative solutions to complex problems. The studies are interdisciplinary and prepare you for responsible positions in companies, NGOs or public institutions, in order to actively contribute to sustainable development.

Why is sustainability so important in the study of environmental science?

Sustainability is important in the study of environmental science because it gives you a holistic understanding of how natural systems work and how human activities affect them. It helps you develop solutions that balance ecological, social and economic needs to ensure the long-term health of the planet and the well-being of future generations.

What is the study of sustainability?

The study of sustainability deals with the ecological, social and economic aspects of sustainable development. You will learn how resources can be used responsibly to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the opportunities of future generations. It has an interdisciplinary focus and provides you with the knowledge and skills to develop and implement sustainable solutions to global challenges.

What is a study of ecological sustainability?

A study of ecological sustainability focuses on giving you an in-depth understanding of how to protect and preserve natural resources. You'll learn how to analyze environmental problems and develop solutions that maintain ecological balances by studying ecological processes, conservation efforts and sustainable management to minimize long-term environmental impacts.

Is a Master's in Sustainability worthwhile?

Yes, a master's in sustainability is worthwhile if you are looking for a career with purpose and want to work in future-oriented fields. It offers you specialized knowledge, increases your job opportunities in various industries and enables you to actively contribute to solving global challenges.

Enthusiastic? Request information material now!

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Looking to find out more?

Studienberater MBS: Uttamdeep Kaur, B.A.
PAGE-TITLE: Sustainability Studies