UN Inside Building
In collaboration with the University of Gloucestershire
The MSc Sustainable Global Futures is an online postgraduate programme designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills required to address complex global challenges and contribute to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Delivered by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) in collaboration with the University of Gloucestershire, the programme combines UNITAR’s expertise in multilateral capacity-building with academic instruction in sustainability and future-oriented policy.

Participants will develop the ability to analyse interconnected global issues and design practical, forward-looking solutions across policy, development, and organisational contexts.
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Upcoming Info session

Join representatives from UNITAR and the University of Gloucestershire as we tell you more about our brand-new online MSc in Sustainable Global Futures! This webinar will explain how our MSc programme combines varied and rigorous academic learning with UN expertise. We will be joined by Professor of Development And Community, Kenny Lynch, who will present a Research Case Study on ‘Sanitation, Sustainability, and the Urban Edge’. Join us to learn about the course structure and content, and how this flexible, online master’s can accelerate your professional growth.  There will be a live Q&A at the end for prospective applicants.

10 August 2026 | 15:00 (CEST) - Register now

Programme Objectives

This programme aims to:

  • Strengthen understanding of sustainable development frameworks and global governance
  • Develop skills in strategic foresight and long-term planning
  • Enhance capacities in policy analysis and evidence-based decision-making
  • Support the design and implementation of multi-stakeholder partnerships
  • Equip participants with tools for monitoring, evaluation, and learning

Content and Structure

The programme is delivered fully online and combines asynchronous learning with interactive components, including case studies, applied exercises, and group work – reflecting UNITAR’s practice-oriented training methodology.

Participants will engage with modules covering:

  • Sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals
  • Strategic foresight for sustainable development
  • Environmental systems and resilience
  • Inclusive economic development
  • Governance and partnerships
  • Healthy and sustainable societies

The programme culminates in a capstone project, enabling participants to apply their learning to a real-world sustainability challenge.

Learning Methodology

The programme follows UNITAR’s applied learning model, combining:

  • Expert-led sessions from practitioners and academics
  • Case-based learning grounded in global policy challenges
  • Peer-to-peer exchange within an international cohort
  • Practical assignments focused on real-world application

UNITAR’s training methodology is designed to strengthen both technical knowledge and professional competencies required in multilateral environments. 

Target Audience

This programme is designed for:

  • Early- and mid-career professionals working in government, international organisations, NGOs, or the private sector
  • Individuals seeking to transition into roles related to sustainability, policy, or international development
  • Graduates interested in pursuing careers in global governance and multilateral cooperation

UNITAR programmes are open to a broad range of stakeholders, reflecting the evolving nature of diplomacy and global decision-making. 

Certification

Upon successful completion of the programme, participants will be awarded a Master of Science (MSc) degree from the University of Gloucestershire.

Key Information

  • Format: Online
  • Duration: 24 months (Part-Time)
  • Start Date: September 2026
  • Language: English
  • Delivered in collaboration with: University of Gloucestershire
  • Total fee (UK and international): £11,925

Entry Requirements

Applicants are expected to meet the following requirements:

  • A minimum of a 2:2 honours degree or equivalent in any discipline
  • IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with:
    • at least 6.0 in writing
    • at least 5.5 in all other components

Registration and Contact

Further details on admissions, tuition fees, and application procedures will be shared shortly.

For expressions of interest, please contact UNITAR team at diplomacy@unitar.org.

About UNITAR

The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is the training arm of the United Nations, providing innovative learning solutions to enhance global decision-making and support country-level action.

Established in 1965, UNITAR has developed extensive expertise in delivering training across diplomacy, sustainable development, and global governance, supporting a wide range of stakeholders including governments, international organisations, and civil society.

About the University of Gloucestershire

The University of Gloucestershire is a UK higher education institution recognised for its work in sustainability, environmental systems, and futures-oriented education.

It has established a strong academic profile in addressing complex global challenges through interdisciplinary teaching and applied research, with a particular emphasis on sustainable development and societal transformation.

Within this programme, the University provides academic oversight and awards the Master of Science (MSc) qualification.

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