Universities and Online Degrees Guide

Stellenbosch University

Diploma in Sustainable Development

The Diploma in Sustainable Development in Earth Sciences is offered by Stellenbosch University.

Program Length: 3 YEARS.

Diploma in Sustainable Development offered by the Stellenbosch University at the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences

Why study this programme?

Our world is in transition. Since 2009, investments in renewable energy have exceeded the investments in fossil fuels, demonstrating a growing awareness of the vulnerability of the earth and of the need to use its resources sustainably. As a result, in 2015, the world adopted the Sustainable Development Goals, committing the global family to eradicating poverty. Young people starting out in the world of work today find that they have to rely on their own abilities to inspire, network, create and efficiently organise across sectors. These competencies will be developed through entrepreneurship education that characterise the diploma.

What knowledge and skills does this programme equip one with?

This multidisciplinary programme equips students with the skills and knowledge to make use of entrepreneurial opportunities in the broad field of sustainable development. This new generation of responsible entrepreneurs will understand the world we live in, have the skills to set up the kinds of organisations that are appropriate to a sustainable development context, and have a set of values that predisposes them for action in a complex world.

Classes are presented at the Sustainability Institute at Lynedoch in the form of block sessions, consisting of formal lectures, facilitated discussion learning, case method learning in large and small groups, and group work. Reading and listening is complemented with first-hand experience, building the capacity for sound judgement and practical wisdom.

The education is place-based - it is rooted in a mature, socially integrated and ecologically designed community, that includes a wide range of social enterprises on the farm - education, tourism, energy, crafts and services. Students will also benefit from our partner institutions in community development, financial services, IT and conservation.

Job opportunities

Entrepreneurs in sustainable development through social enterprises, education, tourism, renewable energy, crafts and services towards community development.

Further studies

Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in Sustainable Development

Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Sustainable Development

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Sustainable Development