Develop a unique set of skills to tackle climate and environmental issues facing industry and policymakers today.

The BA in Climate and Environmental Sustainability, Politics and Law at Dublin City University (DCU) is a unique and future-focused interdisciplinary program that addresses the most urgent global challenge of our time—climate change. This undergraduate degree is designed for students who are passionate about sustainability, the environment, policy-making, and social justice. It equips students with a deep understanding of environmental issues through the combined lenses of political science, legal frameworks, and sustainability practices.

With the global transition towards greener economies and international cooperation on climate matters, this program prepares students to become leaders in environmental governance, advocacy, and law. Students will learn to critically assess complex environmental challenges, influence policy decisions, and contribute to sustainable development at local, national, and international levels.

Why Choose This Program?

Interdisciplinary Learning: Integrates three key domains—climate science, politics, and law—to provide a well-rounded and practical education.

Global Relevance: Tailored for students aiming to address global sustainability goals (SDGs), climate justice, and policy reform.

Real-World Impact: Emphasis on current climate challenges, sustainable development, and active engagement with real-world issues.

Expert Faculty: Learn from DCU’s leading academics and practitioners in environmental policy, international law, and political theory.

Skill Development: Gain skills in research, policy analysis, critical thinking, environmental communication, and legal reasoning.

Programme Structure

The BA in Climate and Environmental Sustainability, Politics and Law is a three-year full-time degree structured across key thematic areas:

Year 1: Foundations in environmental science, introduction to Irish and international legal systems, political theory, and global climate issues.

Year 2: Advanced study in environmental law, climate justice, EU and global environmental governance, research methods, and public policy.

Year 3: Specialised modules in sustainability transitions, climate diplomacy, environmental ethics, and a final-year Capstone Project or dissertation.

In addition to lectures and seminars, students may engage in workshops, simulations, field visits, and internship opportunities where applicable.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Understand and explain the scientific, legal, and political dimensions of climate change and environmental sustainability.
• Critically evaluate environmental laws, regulations, and policy instruments.
• Develop informed, evidence-based arguments and proposals to address environmental challenges.
• Communicate sustainability and climate policy issues to diverse audiences.
• Apply interdisciplinary thinking to solve real-world environmental problems.

Career Opportunities

Graduates from this program will be well-positioned for a wide range of careers in both public and private sectors, including:

Environmental Policy & Advocacy – Work with NGOs, government bodies, or international organisations on climate action and sustainability.

Legal and Regulatory Roles – Opportunities in environmental law firms, legal consultancy, and compliance regulation.

Sustainability Consultancy – Corporate sustainability strategy, green innovation, or ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) analysis.

Public Sector & Civil Service – Climate advisors, policy officers, and urban planning roles in government agencies.

Postgraduate Pathways – Ideal foundation for further study in environmental law, international relations, sustainable development, and more.

Why Study at DCU?

Ireland’s University of Enterprise: DCU is renowned for its strong industry links, innovation-driven teaching, and graduate employability.

High-Quality Teaching: Ranked among the top young universities globally, with a focus on student experience and academic excellence.

Sustainability Leadership: DCU is committed to sustainable campus operations and environmental research, actively engaging in climate initiatives.

Vibrant Campus Life: A modern, inclusive campus environment with diverse clubs, societies, and support services for international students.

Location Advantage: Situated in Dublin, a dynamic capital city and a hub for climate-tech, policy organisations, and global NGOs.

*Special Note for Non-EU Undergraduate Applicants*

DCU offers a €2,000 scholarship to all non-EU undergraduate students as an initial tuition fee reduction. Additionally, students may qualify for merit-based scholarships depending on their academic performance and application strength.