BSc Environment and Sustainable Development

This programme prepares students to tackle the major social and environmental challenges of our times.

Graduates will have the training to enter into a range of careers, including working in government, international development, sustainability, environmental compliance, corporate social responsibility, and the non-profit sector.

Our students have also pursued graduate study in fields including environmental policy and governance, international and sustainable development, environmental economics, green business and geography. 

Top-ranked department

We're ranked 2nd in the world in the latest QS World University subject rankings and 3rd in the Complete University Guide subject tables. A range of measures contribute to the rankings, including student satisfaction, academic reputation and career prospects.

World-class academics

You'll be taught by lecturers at the cutting edge of research. Our staff provide advice to governments, international organisations and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Students work with world-class experts who bring unique insights from the latest research to their teaching.

Emphasis on teaching quality

We place special importance on the quality of our students’ learning experience. A particular feature of our teaching is on the development of transferrable skills – such as data analysis, team work and presentation skills. You'll also receive regular support from a dedicated academic mentor (who is a staff member in the department) throughout your studies.

Outstanding career prospects

Graduates have an excellent track record of employment. See the most recent available data.

Facilities for you

You'll enjoy access to one of the largest libraries in the world devoted to the economic and social sciences, the LSE Library, together with its extensive range of electronic learning resources, and the award-winning Saw Swee Hock Student Centre.

Experience London

LSE is centrally located in one of the world’s global cities. The City – financial heart of London - the historic Inns of Court, and Westminster are all on our doorstep, providing opportunities for internships/future career pathways. Countless cultural venues are within walking distance and our Halls of Residence are located in some of the most exciting areas of London, including Covent Garden, Bloomsbury and Trafalgar Square.

Public lecture programme

LSE attracts many high-profile external speakers including policy makers and political leaders from around the globe. Public lectures are free and open to all. Past speakers include Kofi Annan, Tony Blair, Angelina Jolie, Bill Clinton, Milton Friedman, Nelson Mandela, and Noam Chomsky to name a few.

Global community

LSE's student population is a vibrant and cosmopolitan community. Our students tell us that they gain a great deal from studying alongside, and learning from, people from a wide range of nationalities, cultures and backgrounds.

Rob Clapp

Why did you choose the course/LSE? 

The wide-range of in-depth modules available, the insightful and encouraging academics, and all the brilliant events that take place. 

What has been the highlight of your LSE experience?

Getting to try completely new things: like learning Spanish, completing department research, and joining the Triathlon Club. 

How are you planning to use your degree for your future career? 

I’m still reviewing my options but I know the ability to be critical and think outside the box will always be relevant. 

Sum up your experience in 3 words

Insightful, rewarding, active.

Max Forshaw

Why did you choose the course/LSE? 

LSE has an amazing reputation and its location in central London can give you access to opportunities which simply aren’t available at other universities. Furthermore, the programme fits my interests perfectly and I struggled to find a similar course elsewhere.       

What has been the highlight of your LSE experience? 

Working with my fellow students to start a new Student Union society in my second year was a rewarding experience and has made me feel like I’ve left a small mark on the university that will remain after I leave. 

How are you planning to use your degree for your future career? 

I have a strong knowledge in environmental sustainability and climate change which I know will be put to good use as I start my career in the energy sector.  

Sum up your experience in 3 words

Inspiring, challenging, global.

Jed Hull

Why did you choose the course/LSE? 

I chose the course at LSE because beside being a world-class institution, it offers some of the best modules approaching the environment from a social science perspective. While I’ve also had the chance to study environmental science, I’ve most enjoyed studying the environment through the lenses of political science, sociology and economics. 

What has been the highlight of your LSE experience? 

The highlight of my LSE experience has been applying the knowledge I learnt in my modules through fieldwork. Whether it was the South Bank or New York City, actually undertaking research always offered exciting and unique opportunities for learning about the world around us.  

How are you planning to use your degree for your future career? 

I’m planning to use the knowledge and research skills I have gained to undertake further research in the field of Environment and Development. 

Sum up your experience in 3 words

Intense, but transformative.

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