Climate Change and Society - Master of Science programme
Start
Autumn 2026
Duration
2 years
Level
Master's
Language
English
Place of study
Lund
Climate change is one of the most complex issues facing humanity today. This transdisciplinary international Master of Science programme trains you to analyse and understand the causes and consequences of climate change, and how these are rooted in social, economic, political, and cultural complexities. You will learn about climate impacts and various approaches to mitigation, adaptation, and transformation.
The programme is grounded in theoretical perspectives from sustainability science, human geography, and political science. It will provide you with tools and strategies to address climate change in collaboration with society. You will also develop skills in cross-cultural and interdisciplinary teamwork and effective communication with diverse groups.
Lund University Centre for Sustainability Studies
The programme is hosted by Lund University Centre for Sustainability Studies (LUCSUS), a leading centre for research, education, and societal impact within the Faculty of Social Sciences. At LUCSUS, you will find an open, collaborative, and supportive environment dedicated to making a difference at the local and global levels. We are proud that Lund University is ranked first in the world in the QS Sustainability Ranking (2024), reflecting our commitment to advancing sustainability.
Your place of study is in the heart of Lund University's campus, offering access to green areas, libraries, educational and cultural institutions, all within walking distance. LUCSUS provides unique facilities for our students, including study spaces, lecture halls, group rooms, and recreational areas. This environment fosters close relationships between students and teachers, ensuring you receive the support and guidance needed to thrive academically and personally.
The programme builds on 30 years of excellence in education at the Lund University Centre for Sustainability Studies. Courses are taught by teachers from across the social sciences, helping you identify and formulate strategies to address climate change and society. You learn about the challenges of climate change worldwide and are exposed to diverse perspectives and worldviews.
The approaches and methodologies you use include modelling, scenario building, fieldwork, participatory exercises, and climate action labs. The programme also offers an internship opportunity either in Sweden or abroad.
After graduating, you will understand the complexity and challenges of climate change – including its drivers, dynamics, and impacts. You will be equipped to design, implement, and evaluate measures to mitigate or manage climate change in various social contexts and scales, in collaboration with society.
As a programme graduate, you are equipped to work in a range of sectors, both within and outside academia, and in several professional roles. You will gain specialist skills for addressing climate change and sustainability, using a critical and constructive understanding of climate change transformations at local, national, and international levels.
Your career direction will also be influenced by the knowledge, skills, and competencies you gained in your first cycle programme, as well as your work experience and interests.
Prerequisites
A Bachelor’s degree corresponding to at least 180 ECTS. English course 6 (advanced proficiency)
Selection criteria
Selection is based on academic grades, statement of purpose and recommendations.
Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA citizens
Citizens of countries outside:
- The European Union (EU)
- The European Economic Area (EEA) and
- Switzerland
are required to pay tuition fees. You pay an instalment of the tuition fee in advance of each
semester.
Tuition fees, payments and exemptions
Full programme/course tuition fee: SEK 300,000
First payment: SEK 75,000
Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.
No tuition fees for citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland
There are no tuition fees for citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.
Lund University Global Scholarship Programme
The Lund University Global Scholarship programme is a merit-based and selective scholarship targeted at top academic students from countries outside the EU/EEA.
Lund University Global Scholarship
African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship
Within the framework of the Lund University Global Scholarship programme, the University also offers the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship targeted at top academic students from selected African research universities.
Swedish Institute Scholarship: Global professionals
The Swedish Institute offers scholarships to international students from certain countries who are applying for select Master's programmes in Sweden.
Scholarship information on the Swedish Institute website
Country-specific scholarships and funding options
Lund University has agreements with scholarship organisations and funding bodies in different countries, which may allow applicants to apply for funding or scholarships in their home countries for their studies at Lund University. Most agreements are intended for Master’s applicants, although certain opportunities may also be available to Bachelor’s students.
External scholarships
In addition to scholarships offered by Lund University or through its partner agreements, there are external opportunities. On the page below, you’ll find examples of organisations that may provide financial support for international students from specific countries.