German and Sustainable Development

German and sustainable development is an unusual and timely combination, connecting the study of one of Europe's most significant languages and cultural traditions with one of the most pressing challenges facing the world today. German is the most widely spoken native language in Europe and the language of a major scientific, philosophical, literary and economic tradition, with deep significance for the history of ideas and for contemporary international relations. Sustainable development addresses the economic, social and environmental dimensions of creating a world that meets present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own, drawing on ecology, economics, policy and social science.

At the University of St Andrews, this five-year programme develops your German language and communications skills to a high level of proficiency, allowing you to explore the rich cultural heritage of the German-speaking lands through a broad range of course options in literature, history, film and culture, while also developing a rigorous understanding of sustainable development theory and practice. The WIYA designation indicates that a year in a German-speaking country is incorporated into the degree, giving you extended immersion in the language and culture and the opportunity to experience sustainability challenges and responses in a European context.

Graduates who combine German with sustainable development bring a rare set of skills to a field that is increasingly important across government, business, civil society and international organisations. Careers in environmental policy, international development, sustainability consultancy, European institutions, climate diplomacy, NGOs working in German-speaking countries and energy and environmental management are all natural destinations. The combination of high-level language competence and sustainability knowledge is particularly distinctive and well suited to the growing number of organisations working on the interface between European politics and global environmental challenges.

Postgraduate study in sustainable development, international relations, environmental policy or German studies is available for those who want to specialise further.