Applications for the 2025 entry are now open.
Please find the updated admission information in each programme page below.
About the Programmes
The UNU-IAS postgraduate degree programmes aim to produce the policymakers and researchers of tomorrow, who will be at the forefront of global efforts towards a more sustainable future.
Studying at UNU-IAS brings the unique benefits of:
• Collaborative research & practical experience,
• A global university within the UN system, and
• An international and interactive learning environment in central Tokyo.
Doctorate Degree
PhD in Sustainability Science
Master's Degree
MSc in Sustainability
Thematic Areas & Research Opportunities
The UNU-IAS postgraduate programmes are closely interconnected with the institute’s research activities. Students have opportunities to gain practical experience by engaging actively in the research projects in UNU-IAS thematic areas. The courses offered correspond to these thematic areas under the overarching theme of sustainability.
- Governance for Climate Change and Sustainable Development (GSD)
- Biodiversity and Society (BDS)
- Water & Resource Management (WRM)
- Innovation & Education (IVE)
Applicants are required to choose one of these thematic areas and propose relevant research to conduct at UNU-IAS. A description of each thematic area is available here.
Learn about research by our previous students.
Faculty
The programme is taught by an expert teaching faculty comprising both UNU-IAS academic staff and invited distinguished scholars and practitioners. Please see the list of faculty members here.
Admissions Policy
The UNU-IAS Postgraduate Programmes in Sustainability / Sustainability Science seeks students with the following qualities:
1. Students who possess a firm academic interest in the pressing global issues on the UN agenda, in particular those of sustainability, and a strong desire to contribute to the solving of problems concerning global environment and society through a transdisciplinary approach;
2. Students who have adequate research skills and clear questions related to global issues as well as a strong desire to engage in research in UNU-IAS thematic areas, with the potential and motivation to succeed in our programmes;
3. Students who have the intention to proactively apply academic research findings to policymaking, and aim to pursue careers in international fields in public service or private organizations, including United Nations, multinational corporations, and non-governmental organizations as well as research academic institutions.
Contact
Before contacting us, please read through the MSc FAQ and PhD FAQ pages as your question may already be answered there.
If your question is not covered in the FAQ, please contact us using the form below. If you have already submitted an application to us, please use the same email address as on the inquiry form.
United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS)
Admissions Office
5-53-70 Jingumae
Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-8925, Japan
T: +81 (0)3 5467-1212