MSc Sustainability Engineering Leadership

• Advanced knowledge, climate literacy and systematic understanding of the sciences, engineering sciences and technologies underpinning the concept of environmental sustainability,
• The ability to identify, formulate and critically analyse processes and technologies for the implementation of sustainability,
• The ability to apply knowledge to quantify the environmental sustainability of products, processes and systems using analysis and interpretation of relevant data,
• An understanding of the need for high ethical standards in the practice of engineering, including the responsibilities of the engineering profession towards people and the environment,
• The ability to work effectively as an individual, as part of a team and in multidisciplinary settings, and to act as a change agent within organisations to lead and integrate sustainability implementation initiatives,
• The ability to communicate and lead effectively on the implementation of sustainable engineering practices within organisations and society at large.
• The ability to integrate literature data with your work to advance your understanding of a subject and to generate new knowledge through synthesis, critical analysis or research into a subject.

Additionally, students have the opportunity to participate in Northeastern’s top-ranked cooperative education program, providing them up to eight months of professional work experience as part of the academic program. This experience gives students a competitive edge upon graduation and expands their professional network.

This MSc will produce graduates with the capability to become leaders in sustainability implementation who can apply their skills in a wide range of sectors, for production companies, local authorities, design and consulting companies etc., driving the transition to a sustainable and circular economy in Ireland, the United States, and globally. 

Typical employers of our graduates include: 

• Wind power development - Siemens
• ​Sustainability manager - Usice Eireann
• Product licensing and sustainability compliance - Trifol
• Carbon measurements and sustainability - La Roba Energy 
• Design of solar installations - Microtek Solar Solutions (India)
• Sustainability assessments - RPS Consulting Engineers
• Energy advisory - Aurora Energy

The following are potential career tracks after graduating:

• Design and consulting engineering firms focused on sustainable technologies and systems    (e.g., Arup)
• Start-up firms focused on sustainable technologies and systems (e.g. Sublime)
• Venture firms and investment companies that evaluate promising technologies (e.g., Blue Wave Capital)
• Sustainability assessment/energy systems analysis / LCA consultancies (e.g., Quantis)

By blending engineering, data-driven decision-making, and sustainability leadership, this programme will empower graduates to make a lasting impact in businesses, governments, and communities worldwide.

UCD is strongly committed to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), embedding sustainability in teaching, research, operations, and community engagement. Sustainability principles are integrated into this programme, ensuring students graduate equipped to address global challenges. UCD’s leadership in this area is internationally recognised, ranking 49th globally and 1st in Ireland in the QS World University Rankings for Sustainability 2024. UCD also leads impactful research in areas such as climate action, clean energy, and social equity, supported by a comprehensive Sustainability Strategy focused on reducing emissions, enhancing biodiversity, and fostering a sustainable campus culture.

Here are the SDGs which align more visibly with this programme:

Applications for this MSc are made directly to Northeastern University just click here

Applicants must have a  minimum 2:1 award in a Bachelor's degree  (NFQ level 8) or international equivalence in engineering, physical science or an environmental related degree programme. 

Minimum English language requirements will apply. The English language requirements for degree courses at UCD are listed at http://www.ucd.ie/international/study-at-ucd-global/ucdenglishlanguagerequirements/

Full Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EU) applicants: Yes

As year 1 is in Boston you apply on the Northeastern University page click here