This long-established programme examines the ways in which businesses can improve their environmental performance and enhance their social responsibility. Uniquely based outside of a business school context, this programme adopts an interdisciplinary approach to the complex relationship between business and the different dimensions of sustainability. Taught by specialists in sustainability, the course combines a conceptual review of the relationships between business, environment and society with a more applied examination of the wide range of initiatives that relate to environmental management and corporate social responsibility. Perspectives from government, business and stakeholder groups (such as pressure and community groups) are examined, drawing on the expertise of the School, the University and the practitioner community. The course explores the drivers pushing business to tackle sustainability from insider and outsider perspectives, considers how sustainability is conceptualised from a business perspective and introduces students to different approaches to managing the challenges of sustainability. It examines the range of management tools that are available, shows how they are applied in practical situations, and examines the factors that shape the success or failure of these initiatives.

This programme aims to equip student for careers both in business and in other sectors of the economy (such as government or non-governmental organisations). The final career destination often depends on the experience the students had before starting the MSc, so some who have already worked in business find it easier to get sustainability or CSR jobs in companies immediately upon graduation. We have some students who are taking 'time out' from their jobs to enhance their sustainability credentials and are able to return to their jobs with new skills and understanding. Others who are more recent graduates may work for local government or NGOs or undertake internships. Others are now working for consultancy companies. Some students continue in education to do PhDs.