Sustainability Studies (Bachelor)
Main Campus, Germany
Bachelor of Science in Sustainability Sciences - Sustainability Studies
University of Kassel
Sustainability Studies
Program Overview: Sustainability Studies at the University of Kassel
The Bachelor's degree program in Sustainability Sciences - Sustainability Studies at the University of Kassel offers you the opportunity to acquire interdisciplinary knowledge about human-nature relationships, socio-ecological transformations, and sustainable solutions. You will learn to critically reflect on ecological, cultural, social, technological, and economic transformations and to help shape them in a technically sound manner.
The course combines the fundamentals of social sciences, humanities, culture, natural sciences, and technology while teaching you methods of transformation and sustainability research. Closely linked to the Kassel Institute for Sustainability, this program takes equal account of the university's four research profiles: nature, culture, society, and technology, and is designed with the involvement of all faculties.
What sets this program apart is its strong focus on practical learning from the very first semester. In project modules, you will work on sustainability-related issues in teams, develop concrete solutions, and gain valuable professional experience through an eight-week internship in Germany or abroad.
Key Program Highlights
- Unique interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary curriculum combining natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, and technology perspectives on sustainability
- Mandatory eight-week internship in Germany or abroad providing hands-on professional experience in sustainability-related fields
- Project-based learning from the first semester with team-based work on real socio-ecological transformation challenges
- Flexible semester abroad options through Erasmus and other funded exchange programs at European and non-European partner universities
Curriculum and Modules
The program is structured around a modular curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical project work. You will study topics ranging from energy supply and climate change to land use, nutrition, mobility, sustainability law, and social conflicts surrounding sustainability, preparing you for the complex challenges of socio-ecological transformation.
Foundations of Sustainability Science
12 ECTSIntroduction to the key concepts, theories, and epistemological foundations of sustainability science, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and interdisciplinary research methods.
Natural Science and Technical Foundations
12 ECTSCore knowledge in natural sciences and technology as they relate to sustainability challenges, covering topics such as energy systems, climate science, and ecological processes.
Social Sciences, Humanities and Culture
12 ECTSExploration of social, cultural, and humanistic perspectives on sustainability, including social theory, environmental ethics, political ecology, and cultural dimensions of transformation.
Transformation and Sustainability Research Methods
12 ECTSTraining in qualitative, quantitative, and transdisciplinary research methods used in sustainability science, including systemic thinking, anticipation, and scenario analysis.
Project Studies in Socio-Ecological Transformation
18 ECTSTeam-based project modules where you independently analyze sustainability-related issues, develop innovative solutions, and acquire both scientific and professional qualifications in project management.
Internship and Professional Practice
12 ECTSA mandatory eight-week internship completed in Germany or abroad, providing practical insights into professional fields such as NGOs, public administration, the private sector, or research institutes.
Compulsory Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Sustainability Studies Bachelor's program at the University of Kassel requires meeting academic and language prerequisites. As this is a German-taught program, proficiency in German is essential. Uni4Edu can guide you through every step of the application process and help you prepare the required documents.
Academic Requirements
- Secondary EducationA recognized higher education entrance qualification equivalent to the German Abitur (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung)
- Academic RecordSatisfactory grades in relevant subjects; specific GPA thresholds may apply — contact Uni4Edu for current requirements
- International QualificationsNon-German qualifications may require evaluation through uni-assist; Uni4Edu assists with this process
- StudienkollegApplicants whose qualifications are not directly recognized may need to complete a preparatory course (Studienkolleg) before enrollment
- Admission RestrictionContact Uni4Edu for the most current information on whether this program has restricted admission (Numerus Clausus)
Language Requirements
- DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung)DSH-2 or higher
- TestDaFLevel 4 in all four subtests (TDN 4)
- Alternative CertificatesGoethe-Zertifikat C2, telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule, or DSD II with at least three C1 results and one B2
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
As a public university in Germany, the University of Kassel does not charge tuition fees for most programs, including for international students. However, a semester contribution of approximately EUR 300 is required, which typically includes a public transport ticket. Several scholarship options are available to help cover living expenses during your studies.
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
EUR 300 per monthA merit-based scholarship supporting talented students at the University of Kassel. Half of the funding comes from private sponsors and the other half from the German federal government. Open to both German and international students based on academic achievement and social engagement.
DAAD Scholarships for International Students
Varies by programThe German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers various scholarships for international students studying in Germany, including monthly stipends, health insurance coverage, and travel allowances. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligible DAAD programs.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Sustainability Studies program are well-prepared for a wide range of careers in fields that address global sustainability challenges. The interdisciplinary training and practical project experience equip you with analytical, communication, and project management skills that are highly sought after by employers across multiple sectors.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employer Types
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Kassel is a publicly funded research university founded in 1971, recognized nationally and internationally for its interdisciplinary approach and strong focus on sustainability research. It is home to the Kassel Institute for Sustainability and is consistently listed among the top universities in Germany for environmental science and social sciences.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science | EduRank | #738 World / #47 Germany |
| Liberal Arts and Social Sciences | EduRank | #531 World / #40 Germany |
| Agricultural Sciences | ARWU Subject Rankings | Top 201-300 |
| QS Subject Rankings (broad) | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #501-550 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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