Sustainable Development BSc (Hons)

The world is facing the prospect of a climate emergency, as decision-makers grapple with the need to understand and respond to increasing pressures on our environment and society. Sustainable development, from a local level to a global scale, is essential if society is to tackle the challenges faced. The necessary changes will impact on every facet of society, culture and the economy: there has never been a more critical moment to engage with the process and contribute to the solution.As part of the BSc (Hons) Sustainable Development you will learn the facts about climate change, explore the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and consider potential and emerging solutions such as the Green New Deals, the concept of ‘degrowth’, and the transition to 'wellbeing economies', putting you in an ideal position to influence, or indeed become part of, the decision-makers.The degree focuses on how communities, particularly those based rurally, can shape a more sustainable form of development. Most of our teaching team are located in the Western Isles, where 75% of people live on community-owned land, setting the context for you to study community-based development, land reform, community empowerment and community energy projects, all with the intention of contributing to a more sustainable future.Sustainability is most often defined as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It has three main pillars: economic, environmental, and social. You will develop a critical understanding of all three, studying modules drawn from a range of social science disciplines such as geography, economics, politics, sociology and environmental studies, as well as developing practical skills in research and working with communities. The modules take a critical approach to examining historical context in relation to development, whilst also looking firmly to the future and drawing on examples of change in action around the globe.Conducted entirely online and available to study from anywhere in the world, the course will provide you with opportunities for collaborative discussions and activities with colleagues from a range of diverse backgrounds and experiences, facilitated by tutors with many years of experience in delivering online education.**This programme is subject to validation and various elements may change. Please check back on the course webpage for updates.**