University of Gloucestershire has partnered with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) to launch the world’s first programme of its kind focused on developing long-term solutions to global sustainability challenges.
The University – a higher education sector leader in sustainability policy and practice – has collaborated with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), to design and deliver the new MSc Sustainable Global Futures degree.
The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is a dedicated training arm of the United Nations system working in every region of the world. The Institute provides innovative learning solutions to individuals, organisations and institutions to enhance global decision-making and support country-level action for shaping a better future.
The University’s MSc Sustainable Global Futures degree – an online part-time course providing flexible studying – is the only course of its kind developed and delivered in partnership with UNITAR. Contributors include University researchers and UN policy professionals with expertise in areas including gender equity, global health, climate change mitigation and adaptation, energy policy and responsible production.
The course content spans each of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – a blueprint for promoting world peace and prosperity – to stimulate knowledge and solutions to address social, political, economic and environmental challenges. There is a core focus on addressing sustainability skills gaps identified in the UN Goals including data, policy evaluation, foresight, and partnership development skills.
Dr Rachel Bennett, Senior Lecturer in Human Geography and University course lead, said: “We’re proud to have collaborated with UNITAR on the groundbreaking MSc Sustainable Futures degree, which directly responds to the growing demand for sustainability professionals across various sectors.
“We know that traditional policymaking structures struggle to respond to our incredibly pressing yet uncertain and long-term sustainability challenges. This distinctive new course responds to the strategic priority of long-term planning, thinking and delivery for an inclusive, socially just and climate resilient future, and it culminates in an extended project that could take the form of a project with UNITAR.
“This means that upon completing the programme, learners will be ready to promote meaningful long-term progress on sustainability challenges across local, national and global levels that is positive for people and the planet.
Mr Rabih El-Haddad, Director of the Division for Multilateral Diplomacy at UNITAR, commented: “The MSc Sustainable Global Futures, launched in partnership with University of Gloucestershire, lies at the heart of UNITAR’s efforts to strengthen global capacities by training leaders in diplomacy-driven skills such as strategic foresight, multi-stakeholder partnerships, and policy analysis.
“Multilateralism is indispensable for tackling complex global challenges like climate change, inequality, and sustainable development, where only collective action can deliver lasting solutions.
“We look forward to welcoming our first cohort of professionals ready to drive sustainable development in line with the 2030 Agenda and Pact for the Future.”
The University is now recruiting students to join the programme’s first cohort, beginning in September 2026.
