a Sustainability
Why UCD?
Top 1%
TOP 1% FOR EDUCATION
(QS World University Ranking 2023)
UCD is ranked within the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide, placed 126th, and offers the best internationally accredited curriculum in Ireland, with four subjects ranked in the top 50 worldwide, nine in the top 100, and 36 in the top 200.
FOR SUSTAINABILITY
(QS World University Ranking 2024)
UCD is ranked number one in Ireland in the World QS Sustainability Rankings 2024 and is now 50th globally. The ranking compares 1,397 universities to establish which are doing the most to tackle the world's greatest environmental, social and governance challenges.
No.1 in Ireland
IRELAND’S GLOBAL UNIVERSITY
No.1 in Ireland
FOR EMPLOYMENT OUTCOMES
(QS World University Ranking 2024)
UCD is ranked No. 1 in Ireland for Employment Outcomes and 77th globally in the QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2024. This ranking reflects UCD’s strong focus on career-ready education and industry connections, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for success.
Ireland’s Global University with more than 10,000 international students from 144 countries and 33% of our academic staff from overseas. On graduating, students join
130
Sports Clubs & Societies
4,000
On-Campus Events
LIVING LABS
UCD is pioneering new approaches to experiential learning, vital in the area of Sustainability. Our Living Labs, allow learners to get out of the classroom and get hands-on, learning about sustainability in spaces like UCD Greenacre, an acre of sustainability experimentation on campus or our MakerSpace, with state of the art technology.
WORLD CLASS AMENITIES
One of Europe’s largest urban campuses providing world-class amenities and a sense of place and community for students to study, relax, play and connect.
UCD MSc Design Thinking for Sustainability
Qualification
The UCD MSc Design Thinking for Sustainability is a Level 9 MSc (90 ECTS).
How it's delivered
In-person at UCD Innovation Academy, an innovation hub at the heart of UCD.
Classroom based with independent work, group work and an applied sustainability project with a partner organisation for the final module.
Duration
12 months total, from September 2025
Fees & Funding
€11,000 (EU)
€23,000 (Non-EU)
Requirements
A minimum honours degree (Level 8) qualification or equivalent
Letter of motivation & CV
An English language qualification if English is not your first language
Overview
UCD’s MSc in Design Thinking for Sustainability is a unique Masters programme that equips learners with both the knowledge and skills to act decisively on sustainability Graduates of the MSc in Design Thinking for Sustainability leave with mastery of a globally recognised, problem-solving methodology, and a wide ranging knowledge of key sustainability issues, applicable across multiple sectors and professions.
UCD’s MSc in Design Thinking for Sustainability provides learners with the knowledge and skills to:
Apply the Design Thinking process, a methodology to create innovative, human-centric, sustainable solutions to complex, realworld problems.
Develop a sustainability mindset through working knowledge of sustainability systems, issues and tools, framed by the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Lead a complex and ambitious sustainability project, managing multiple stakeholders and competing needs to deliver an actionable solution.
Apply and cultivate teamwork and leadership skills to support effective collaboration across diverse stakeholders and within multidisciplinary teams practising design thinking.
Communicate persuasively, both individually and in teams, to influence different stakeholders, decision-makers and a wider general audience.
Adopt and apply an entrepreneurial mindset - a way of thinking that creates value by recognising and acting on opportunities, making decisions with limited information, and remaining adaptable and resilient - in the design and implementation of sustainability solutions.
Apply the Design Thinking methodology to design learners’ own career, using practical career skills to identify and navigate relevant and possible career and life pathways.
Course Structure & Delivery
You’ll learn from UCD Innovation Academy’s inspiring educators and leading guest speakers – academics, practitioners, activists and policy-makers from around the world
The course is delivered in UCD Innovation Academy on a full-time basis, enabling you to immerse yourself fully in learning. You’ll work in our challenging but supportive class environment, with full access to the state-of the art MakerSpace and Sustainable Living Lab to bring your ideas to life.
You’ll learn from doing, collaborating with educators and your fellow innovators on practical team challenges and real-world projects
You’ll work hands on with partners in enterprise and civil society, addressing real sustainability challenges.
Students learn and apply key concepts in Creative Thinking, Entrepreneurship, Leadership and Design Thinking through immersive activities and hands-on sustainability challenges, in-person.
Th fi l odule, the Applied Sustainability Project, is on an individual level to develop a student’s the topic – Design Thinking for Sustainability.
The course is split into eight core modules, totalling 90 ECTS (European Credit Transfer System).
IA40310 Creative Thinking & Innovation
Learn to see with fresh eyes and develop your teamwork skills.
IA40470 Entrepreneurship: Application and Mindset
Gain the mindset of an entrepreneur: a bias towards action.
IA40350 Innovation Sprint
Explore a product/business/service challenge using Design Thinking. Student teams explore and surface creative, disruptive ideas and solutions for a host organisation or company from either the public or private sector.
IA40620 Systemic Approaches, Interdisciplinary Solutions
Explore global problems in sustainability and consider interdisciplinary and systemic solutions.
IA40340 Leadership for Innovation and Creativity
Develop a leadership practice to cultivate a culture of innovation and sustainability in a future workplace or venture.
IA40610 Design for User-Centric, Sustainable Solutions
Apply the skillset, toolkit, and mindset gained in the first trimester to solving a real-world sustainability problem for an organisation The module ends with a showcase event
IA40460 Design your Purposeful Life
This module provides an approach in which you will reflect upon your learning, consider your life and career goals, and make plans to reposition your career for the emerging green economy
IA40830 Applied Sustainability Project
The Applied Sustainability Project asks students to apply the cumulative knowledge and skills learned to date to help a specific organisation (enterprise, non-profit, startup) integrate sustainability into their strategy, operations, and / or governance, ensuring that sustainability will be grounded as a source of innovation for driving environmental, social and economic change.
MSc applicants are not required to secure a partner organisation for their Applied Sustainability Project module in advance However, if you do have ideas on this please mention it in your application. Supervision of the projects will include a series of meetings with the module coordinator, input from relevant experts within UCD Innovation Academy and regular interaction with the host company.
Assessment
Reflective essays, final pitch/presentations, and project reports
Evaluation by experts from the partner organisations and UCD community Course Leaders
Dr Thomas Macagno, Education Innovation Lead and MSc Program Lead
Dr. Eileen Diskin, Education Innovation Lead
Dr. Thomas Macagno, Education Innovation Lead and MSc Program Lead
Dr. Eileen Diskin, Education Innovation Lead
Why Choose Us?
Gain an internationally recognised qualification from the top 1% of universities in the world
Leave with both the knowledge and skills ready to apply immediately to the next step your career.
Develop a lifelong peer network of likeminded change makers. Demand for green skills and knowledge is outstripping supply - leave with highly sought after qualifications that will set you apart from others.
Receive tailored mentoring to help you translate your MSc experience into actionable next steps in your career
Enjoy a life changing year in Ireland’s capital city, Dublin
“The Irish economy will need to fill more than 20,000 jobs by 2030 just to support green economy sectors.” - IDA Ireland
“Three-quarters of businesses globally have increased their investment in sustainability over the last year” - Deloitte Sustainable Development Report
Some Partners We’ve Worked with on Design Thinking Challenges
Career Opportunities
Complex challenges like sustainability require interdisciplinary solutions. Answers won’t come from one sector or job type. And neither do our graduates.
The UCD MSc in Design Thinking for Sustainability is a highly interdisciplinary and diverse programme. It includes recent university graduates as well as professionals seeking to make a career pivot after many years in a particular sector.
As a result, our graduates go on to work in a wide variety of roles. Some take on sustainability specific roles, others leverage their new expertise with organisations who require sustainability and problem solving across multiple roles
Here’s a flavour of what some of our graduates went on to do:
Chief Sustainability Officer
Sustainability Manager
Facilitation Specialist
Specialist in Sustainability & Culture
Circular Economy & Climate Communications Officer
Sustainability Coordinator
Sustainability and Environmental Manager Founder
Sustainability Coordinator: Events & Festivals Lead
Energy and Sustainability Coordinator
Responsible Investment Analyst
Sustainability Contractor
Sustainability Auditor
Environmental Awareness Officer
Environmental Scientist
Senior Sustainability Analyst
Product End of Life Management Engineer
Sustainability Programme Manager
Circular Economy & Sustainability Project Officer
Environmental and Community Executive
Executive Officer
Innovation Programme Operations Manager
Assistant Manager - Sustainability Services
Sustainability Bieconomist Specialist
Strategic Communications Consultant
A look into the varied sectors our graduates now work in:
SustainabilityConsultancy
NGOSector
PublicAdministration
SustainabilityConsultancy
RenewableEnergy
HigherEducation
Media
FinancialServices
Architecture&Planning
Healthcare
BusinessConsultancy
EnvironmentalConservation
Design
SoftwareDevelopment
EventsandEntertainment
ConstructionManufacturing/RenewableEnergy
AirlinesandAviation
VeterinaryServices
Telecommunications
PublicServicesandProducts
RealEstate
CivilEngineering
EnvironmentalActivismandAdvocacy
HealthandWellbeingServices
CommunityOrganisations
Upcycling
Arts
Hospitality
My experience on the Design Thinking for Sustainability course has been truly life-changing. After 25 years in a structured corporate environment, I’ve been pushed out of my comfort zone into a more flexible, hands-on setting. The diverse cohort and immersive, practical learning style—where we immediately apply theory with real-world projects—have made this experience transformative. Working with external organisations also gives us a safe way to put our design thinking and sustainability skills into practice.
Oscar Carolan, MSc 2024 Alum
Oscar Carolan, right, and Leinster Rugby who Oscar partnered with in his Applied Sustainability Project
"The course was such a refreshing format — so much more engaging and real-life focused. One of the things that really drew me in was how creative and collaborative it was. It’s completely different from big lecture halls, long essays, and tests. Instead, I was part of a dynamic, flourishing group of people with facilitators from various backgrounds and expertise - it’s so dynamic. I’d never considered pursuing a graduate program before, and coming here is truly a testament to the course’s format."
Jessica Lagreid, MSc 2024 Alum, International Student (USA)
Jessica and the 2024 class at the Abbey Theatre which hosted a design sprint where students worked in a fast paced week to solve a sustainability challenge.
"This course has really helped me build confidence and explore opportunities I might not have considered before. The reflective learning has been invaluable, impacting both my personal and professional life. I love the collaboration and teamwork—it's one of my favourite parts of the course. I would describe the experience as creative, collaborative, and immensely enjoyable."
Hannah Shepard, 2024 Grad Dip Alum
If I could summarise in three words, I’d say the course is collaborative, creative, and insightful. I’m learning a lot, and it’s not just academic or theoretical—it’s life skills. It’s shaping the way I think and work, and I can see myself using what I’ve learned, whether in my job or when solving a problem. It’s something I can apply both professionally and personally.
Vivaan Sharma, 2024 Current MSc International Student (India)
A prototype designed by students in the UCD Innovation Academy MakerSpace as part of their project so solve a sustainability challenge for Airfield Estate, a sustainable food hub in Dublin
Feedback from an Enterprise partner to a student team who worked on an applied challenge for their organisation, the not for profit Oxfam.
Scan to Apply
https://hub.ucd.ie/usis/!W_HU_MENU.P_PU BLISH?p_tag=PROG&MAJR=F252
How to Apply
Applications to the UCD MSc Design Thinking for Sustainability are made directly on the UCD website.
If you’re ready to apply here are the steps:
Scan the QR code on the left. Click ‘Apply’ and create an account.
Go to Applications > Course Finder and “Select a Course”. Filter and search for F252
Click “Apply”
Complete and submit the application and upload the required supporting documents detailed on the following page. Please ensure all personal details and general questions are completed before submitting your application.
Supporting documents
You will need to upload some supporting documents as part of your application:
1. An updated CV
2. A Letter of Motivation of approx. 1 page outlining:
Why you want to undertake the MSc
What you can contribute to the course
What you would like to achieve from the MSc
Your thoughts on possible partner organisations (or sectors of interest) for the Applied Sustainability Project
3. A transcript of your Level 8 qualification OR Recognition of Prior Learning
Under UCD's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy, consideration will be given on a case by case basis to applicants who do not hold a Level 8 primary degree but who fulfil either of the following criteria:
Holding a Level 7 primary degree: upload your academic transcript of your Level 7 and demonstrate min. 2 years work experience on your CV. Professional references may be required.
No Level 7/8 degree: min. 5 years work experience and 2 recently dated professional/employment references required. These should be on headed paper or from an official email address and including the referees name, role and email address. Please review your CV to ensure that it clearly demonstrates the following: a. Any experience of leadership and self-direction; b. Any experience of management or entrepreneurship; c. A description of any responsibilities that demonstrate accountability, resource management, or client engagement (if applicable).
4. An English language qualification if English is not your first language
5. Non-EU applicants are required to supply 2 references
Fees & Funding
There are a number of scholarship options available to both EU and non-EU students. Below are some guidelines, and new opportunities will always be shared on the UCD Innovation Academy website (innovationacademy.ie).
International Students
Global Excellence Scholarship
The Global Excellence Scholarship is available to outstanding international students from around the world, and considers academic merit alongside a holistic review of the scholarship application. Successful applicants are awarded either a 100% or 50% scholarship. Scan the QR code to the left for more information and important deadlines
International Student Scholarship
All applicants to the MSc are automatically considered for the International Student Scholarship on the basis of academic excellence in their prior Level 8 qualification Successful applicants will receive notification of their scholarship when they receive their official offer from UCD. A percentage of full international fees will be covered by the scholarship. Scan the QR code to the left for more information. For more information about international student scholarships, please email:
internationalscholarships@ucd.ie
Domestic Applicants
Scan the QR code to the left for information about scholarships and grants available to applicants applying from Ireland This page includes information about UCD scholarships, national scholarship schemes, and the Student Grant Scheme (SUSI).
We proposed to our industry partner that they create an opening for a community liaison officer. They liked the idea and created the role. In fact, they offered me the position. I got to create the job and now I’m doing it.
I learned skills I could bring to the table very quickly. Almost immediately after finishing this course I was awarded a contract that I would never have had the confidence to take up if I hadn’t done the course.
Chief Sustainability Officer for TES Sustainable Technology Solutions
It'sfun,it'schallengingandit gotmeoutofmycomfort zone,I'veseenmyselfgrowin manywaysandIcouldn't recommendthecoursemore highly.
RichieDenieffe,‘23GradDipAlum SustainabilityProgrammeAdvisor
Jean Cox-Kearns, ‘21 Grad Dip Alum*
Mae Ly Lim, ’21 Grad Dip Alum
Community Liaison Officer, Hibernia REIT plc
In the event space, we all know now that sustainability has to be at the heart of what we do. As part of of the course I got to work on a project with Convention Centre Dublin who I knew had a team that was dedicated to sustainability. They were, at that very time, prepping for an international award in sustainability. I was lucky enough to be there as they built their pitch.
Production Manager, Adidas
It was a fantastic experience. I came into this course feeling a bit lost, not quite sure what direction to go in but now I feel so confident going into a job in industry, in sustainability.
Lucy
Shah, ‘23 Grad Dip Alum
*Until 2024 students had the option to complete a Graduate Diploma first with the option to add on an MSc module. From 25/26 onward only the full MSc is available
This course was life changing for me. I was a change maker before doing small things when it comes to sustainability but this course has given me the connections and the skills to do bigger things and have the impact I want.
Ciara O'Flaherty ‘23 Grad Dip Alum
Alan Feeney, ‘22 Grad Dip Alum
About UCD Innovation Academy
UCD Innovation Academy provides transformational educational experiences for the betterment of society and the economy. We prepare learners from all walks of life to succeed in an uncertain world. We act as a catalyst for positive change, within individuals, institutions and societies, and we seek to serve as a model for higher education in the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the Anthropocene.
Our approach to teaching and learning is grounded in innovation, creativity, leadership, the entrepreneurial mindset and design thinking Our unique 21st century learning pedagogy centres on experiential, challenge based learning in interdisciplinary settings.
Our unique learning facilities include the Shackleton and Crean Lounges named after Irish explorers and our Living Labs such as our MakerSpace and Greenacre, our Sustainability Hub on campus Our Livings Labs are staffed by dedicated team members, experts in sustainability, technology and more.
UCD Innovation Academy’s Shackleton Lounge, a unique learning space in UCD where the MSc class is based.
UCD Greenacre Sustainability Hub
A first-of-its-kind in Ireland, UCD Greenacre provides an immersive, hands-on sustainability experience designed to equip learners from all backgrounds with the skills and knowledge to integrate sustainability into their work and lives.
A Living Lab for Collaboration
UCD Greenacre is a Living Lab: an open, collaborative space fostering partnerships across the UCD campus and beyond. Situated within an acre on the UCD campus, Greenacre invites students, staff, and external stakeholders to co-create and implement innovative sustainability projects
Hands-On Learning for MSc Students
Students of the MSc in Design Thinking for Sustainability gain exclusive access to UCD Greenacre, working on projects that showcase practical applications of sustainable design.
Real-World Sustainability Initiatives
At Greenacre, UCD students test and scale sustainable initiatives to assess their feasibility within the UCD ecosystem. Examples include:
Mushroom Farm: Repurposing a shipping container to cultivate oyster mushrooms using coffee grounds collected on campus. These mushrooms are then consumed on campus, completing a circular sustainability loop.
Precious Plastic Innovation Centre: Operated by UCD Innovation Academy, this initiative recycles plastic waste into valuable products using small-scale machines.
A Focus on Innovation and Co-Creation
Greenacre emphasises co-creation, rapid prototyping, and scaling up innovations. It serves as a hub for generating joint value for all stakeholders, aligning sustainability efforts with impactful, real-world outcomes.
Scan below to register for an information session and discover how the MSc in Design Thinking for Sustainability can shape your career for the emerging green economy
To talk to us about any of our programmes, please email innovation.academy@ucd.ie and ask for a call back - a member of our team will get in touch to arrange a time to speak.