Skip to content

Sustainability Management and Technologies

Master of Science (M. Sc.)

How do you combine technology, responsibility and strategies for the future?

Sustainability Management and Technologies

The English-taught Master’s programme in Sustainability Management and Technologies prepares you to effectively implement sustainable strategies and technological innovations within organisations. You will analyse environmental, social and economic factors, identify the need for transformation based on these, and develop solutions that make organisations more resilient and future-proof. You will learn how values, culture and leadership structures shape sustainable action and how you can steer change in a targeted manner.

During your studies, you will explore the circular economy, ESG standards, sustainability reporting, sustainable business and financing models, corporate responsibility, leadership and a wide range of future technologies that have an environmental and social impact. You will plan measures, assess potential and develop strategies for companies, consultancies, public institutions or sustainability-focused start-ups. Thanks to the programme’s international focus, you will work in diverse teams, strengthen your communication and leadership skills, and become a specialist at the interface of sustainability, technology and management. 

Job perspectives

The Master’s programme prepares students for challenging, interdisciplinary specialist and leadership roles at the interface between sustainability and technology. Graduates shape sustainable developments within companies and public institutions, combining technological considerations with environmental and economic requirements. Career prospects are particularly strong in technology companies, management consultancies, project management and financial services, as well as in public sector organisations and international organisations. Start-ups focusing on the environment and sustainability also offer a wide range of career opportunities.

Apply online
Degree
Master of Science (M. Sc.)
Duration
4 Semesters
Start of studies
Summer
Main teaching language
English
Admission restricted
No
Location
Neuburg
Type of degree program
Full-time Studies
ECTS
120

Application period for the summer semester 2027: Oct. 15, 2026 to Jan. 15, 2027

Curriculum Sustainability Management and Technologies

Presentation of curriculums
Semester
1st Semester
  1. Circular Economy and Life Cycle Management

    This module focuses on Circular Economy principles and Life Cycle Management. Topics include circular business models, sustainable product design, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Social LCA, Life Cycle Costing, and their practical application. Students learn to analyze material flows and evaluate sustainability performance across product life cycles.

  2. Sustainability Business Basics and Economics

    This module provides foundational knowledge of sustainability in business and economics. Topics include global environmental, social and economic challenges, climate change, planetary boundaries, sustainable corporate management, stakeholder approaches, and sustainability management tools. Further, the module provides a basis in sustainability economics, including core ideas of environmental economics, ecological economics, innovation economics, and alternative economic systems.

  3. Climate Change and De-Carbonization Technologies

    This module examines climate change and technological pathways toward decarbonization. Topics include renewable and non-renewable energy, energy efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions, carbon capture and storage, sustainable transportation, climate policy, climate finance, and corporate carbon accounting. Case studies illustrate real-world transformation strategies.

  4. Metrics and Analytics for Sustainability

    This module covers methods for measuring, analyzing, and managing sustainability performance. Topics include ESG criteria, sustainability reporting, external costs, life cycle assessment, and business intelligence. Students learn to process data, develop sustainability metrics, and create dashboards that support informed business decisions.

  5. Technology and Society

    This module explores the interactions between technology, science, and society. Topics include technological development, social influences, knowledge construction, ethical considerations, and the role of innovation in sustainable transformation. Students critically evaluate how technological choices shape societies and future sustainability pathways.

  6. Research Skills (from SS 2026 onwards)

    This module develops advanced research competencies for academic and applied projects. Topics include research questions, literature reviews, research design, qualitative and quantitative methods, data management, research ethics, and academic writing. Students learn to design, conduct, and communicate rigorous research at Master’s level.

Circular Economy and Life Cycle Management

This module focuses on Circular Economy principles and Life Cycle Management. Topics include circular business models, sustainable product design, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Social LCA, Life Cycle Costing, and their practical application. Students learn to analyze material flows and evaluate sustainability performance across product life cycles.

Sustainability Business Basics and Economics

This module provides foundational knowledge of sustainability in business and economics. Topics include global environmental, social and economic challenges, climate change, planetary boundaries, sustainable corporate management, stakeholder approaches, and sustainability management tools. Further, the module provides a basis in sustainability economics, including core ideas of environmental economics, ecological economics, innovation economics, and alternative economic systems.

Climate Change and De-Carbonization Technologies

This module examines climate change and technological pathways toward decarbonization. Topics include renewable and non-renewable energy, energy efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions, carbon capture and storage, sustainable transportation, climate policy, climate finance, and corporate carbon accounting. Case studies illustrate real-world transformation strategies.

Metrics and Analytics for Sustainability

This module covers methods for measuring, analyzing, and managing sustainability performance. Topics include ESG criteria, sustainability reporting, external costs, life cycle assessment, and business intelligence. Students learn to process data, develop sustainability metrics, and create dashboards that support informed business decisions.

Technology and Society

This module explores the interactions between technology, science, and society. Topics include technological development, social influences, knowledge construction, ethical considerations, and the role of innovation in sustainable transformation. Students critically evaluate how technological choices shape societies and future sustainability pathways.

Research Skills (from SS 2026 onwards)

This module develops advanced research competencies for academic and applied projects. Topics include research questions, literature reviews, research design, qualitative and quantitative methods, data management, research ethics, and academic writing. Students learn to design, conduct, and communicate rigorous research at Master’s level.

  1. Artificial Intelligence and Sustainability

    This module explores the relationship between artificial intelligence and sustainability. Topics include machine learning, deep learning, big data analytics, applications in energy, cities, biodiversity, and waste management, as well as the environmental, social, and ethical impacts of AI. Governance, transparency, and inclusiveness are also addressed.

  2. Sustainable Materials and Recycling- Technologies

    This module introduces sustainable materials and recycling technologies. Topics include material criticality, substitution, efficiency, sustainable production methods, waste management, reuse, and recycling. Students learn how to select environmentally and economically suitable materials and circular solutions throughout the product life cycle.

  3. Natural Resources Management and Supply Chain Sustainability

    This module examines sustainable resource management and supply chain sustainability. Topics include natural resource use, resource efficiency, global supply chains, resilience, sustainable sourcing, and regulatory frameworks such as the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive. Students learn to design more resource-efficient and sustainable value chains.

  4. Values and Ethics for Sustainable Leadership

    This module examines ethics, values, and sustainable leadership. Topics include ethical theories, ethical leadership, transformational and servant leadership, ESG, CSR, and employee engagement in sustainability initiatives. Students explore how values-driven leadership supports responsible decision-making and sustainable organizational development.

  5. Elective I

Artificial Intelligence and Sustainability

This module explores the relationship between artificial intelligence and sustainability. Topics include machine learning, deep learning, big data analytics, applications in energy, cities, biodiversity, and waste management, as well as the environmental, social, and ethical impacts of AI. Governance, transparency, and inclusiveness are also addressed.

Sustainable Materials and Recycling- Technologies

This module introduces sustainable materials and recycling technologies. Topics include material criticality, substitution, efficiency, sustainable production methods, waste management, reuse, and recycling. Students learn how to select environmentally and economically suitable materials and circular solutions throughout the product life cycle.

Natural Resources Management and Supply Chain Sustainability

This module examines sustainable resource management and supply chain sustainability. Topics include natural resource use, resource efficiency, global supply chains, resilience, sustainable sourcing, and regulatory frameworks such as the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive. Students learn to design more resource-efficient and sustainable value chains.

Values and Ethics for Sustainable Leadership

This module examines ethics, values, and sustainable leadership. Topics include ethical theories, ethical leadership, transformational and servant leadership, ESG, CSR, and employee engagement in sustainability initiatives. Students explore how values-driven leadership supports responsible decision-making and sustainable organizational development.

Elective I

  1. Urban Ecology and Sustainable Building Technologies

    This module introduces sustainable urban development and building technologies. Topics include urban ecosystems, sustainability challenges in cities, assessment approaches, international perspectives, and green building certification systems. Students examine the interactions between ecological, technical, and organizational dimensions of urban sustainability.

  2. Sustainable Business Strategy and Entrepreneurship

    This module focuses on sustainable strategy and entrepreneurship. Topics include sustainable business models, strategic analysis, innovation, start-up development, scaling, and societal impact. Students learn to identify entrepreneurial opportunities and develop business solutions that contribute to sustainable economic and social transformation.

  3. Sustainable Investments and Finance Policies

    This module focuses on sustainable finance and investment policies. Topics include ESG criteria, impact investing, sustainability reporting, sustainable financial instruments, regulatory frameworks, risk management, and sustainable portfolio management. Students develop the ability to assess sustainability-related risks and opportunities in investment decisions.

  4. Sustainability Project and Field Trip

    This module combines academic learning with hands-on sustainability projects. Topics include design thinking, stakeholder engagement, project management, fieldwork, teamwork, communication, and the implementation of practical sustainability solutions. Students document, evaluate, and present their project outcomes in a professional manner.

  5. Elective II

Urban Ecology and Sustainable Building Technologies

This module introduces sustainable urban development and building technologies. Topics include urban ecosystems, sustainability challenges in cities, assessment approaches, international perspectives, and green building certification systems. Students examine the interactions between ecological, technical, and organizational dimensions of urban sustainability.

Sustainable Business Strategy and Entrepreneurship

This module focuses on sustainable strategy and entrepreneurship. Topics include sustainable business models, strategic analysis, innovation, start-up development, scaling, and societal impact. Students learn to identify entrepreneurial opportunities and develop business solutions that contribute to sustainable economic and social transformation.

Sustainable Investments and Finance Policies

This module focuses on sustainable finance and investment policies. Topics include ESG criteria, impact investing, sustainability reporting, sustainable financial instruments, regulatory frameworks, risk management, and sustainable portfolio management. Students develop the ability to assess sustainability-related risks and opportunities in investment decisions.

Sustainability Project and Field Trip

This module combines academic learning with hands-on sustainability projects. Topics include design thinking, stakeholder engagement, project management, fieldwork, teamwork, communication, and the implementation of practical sustainability solutions. Students document, evaluate, and present their project outcomes in a professional manner.

Elective II

  1. Master-Thesis

    The Master’s Thesis represents the culmination of the programme and focuses on an independently conducted research project with scientific and practical relevance. Students formulate research questions, select appropriate methodologies, analyze complex issues, and develop evidence-based solutions. Results are documented in a thesis and presented in an academic colloquium.

  2. Master- Colloquium

Master-Thesis

The Master’s Thesis represents the culmination of the programme and focuses on an independently conducted research project with scientific and practical relevance. Students formulate research questions, select appropriate methodologies, analyze complex issues, and develop evidence-based solutions. Results are documented in a thesis and presented in an academic colloquium.

Master- Colloquium

Curriculum Sustainability Management and Technologies — Overview of all semesters and modules
1. Semester
  • Circular Economy and Life Cycle Management
  • Sustainability Business Basics and Economics
  • Climate Change and De-Carbonization Technologies
  • Metrics and Analytics for Sustainability
  • Technology and Society
  • Research Skills (from SS 2026 onwards)
2. Semester
  • Artificial Intelligence and Sustainability
  • Sustainable Materials and Recycling- Technologies
  • Natural Resources Management and Supply Chain Sustainability
  • Values and Ethics for Sustainable Leadership
  • Elective I
3. Semester
  • Urban Ecology and Sustainable Building Technologies
  • Sustainable Business Strategy and Entrepreneurship
  • Sustainable Investments and Finance Policies
  • Sustainability Project and Field Trip
  • Elective II
4. Semester
  • Master-Thesis
  • Master- Colloquium

Interesting Facts

  1. Urgent info for Master applicants from India!

    With immediate effect, applicants from India holding bachelor’s degrees in the fields of Engineering, Commerce / Accounting / Finance / Economics, or Business / Management must, in addition to the VDP from uni-assist, provide evidence of having taken the Digital Master Test (dMAT) aps-india.de/dmat/ in order to obtain an APS certificate or a visa. The test costs €150. Please check whether this applies to you based on your Bachelor’s degree. THI does not answer any questions regarding the test procedure or its impact on an offer of admission from our university! 

    Link
  2. Funding for Studies

    At THI, students have access to a wide range of support options in the form of scholarships. We recommend that students living on their own budget for at least 700–900 EUR per month for personal expenses (accommodation, health insurance, food, books, tuition fees). 

    Link
  3. Full-time international students at THI

    From the moment you’re admitted to your degree programme right through to the end of your studies, we’ll support you with a wide range of services and resources, from language courses and induction events to information on finding accommodation and questions about life in Germany. 

     

    Link
  4. International citizenship from outside the EU/EEC

    THI charges tuition fees of 1,200 euros per semester (Master’s programmes). We are committed to providing our students with the best possible conditions to develop their skills and personalities for the working world of the future. At our International Welcome Centre, you will find excellent services and support. Our degree programmes offer the best possible study conditions.  

    Link
  5. Student accomodation in Neuburg

    Please check the usual classifieds websites. The Neuburg Teacher Training College offers a total of 43 rooms/flats: applications should be made using the form in the downloads section. Please contact Bettina Fürnrohr at the property management office: www.studienseminar-neuburg.de/kontakt/ 

     

    Link
  6. Important notice on application agencies

    THI does not work with agencies. Please apply directly to THI via the uni-assist application portal for international applicants. THI never asks for money via agencies for application purposes and only sends emails from @thi.de. THI will never ask for money before you receive your letter of admission. If you require a VPD from uni-assist, you must pay a processing fee to uni-assist. However, uni-assist only checks certain documents and does not grant admission to THI. 

    Link

The following qualifications must be proven for the admission to the programme:

  • The successful completion of an academic study programme in business/economics, engineering or natural sciences, in each case with a business/economics focus or related fields, at a German university with at least 180 ECTS credit points or an equivalent domestic or foreign degree. Proof is provided by submitting the degree certificate. The examination board decides on equivalence.
  • Knowledge/(practical) experience relevant to the degree program, be it of a scientific or practical nature. Proof is provided, for example, by reference letters, job/internship certificates, theses or seminar papers, and other relevant documents.
  • Basic knowledge of management theory or business administration as well as the ability to think abstractly and system-oriented and to formalize approaches and solutions. 
  • Due to the international orientation of the master programme, proof of the following language skills is required:
    English: B2 level (overview: recognised English tests B2)

    German: A1 level (overview: recognised German tests A1) Proof can be provided until the end of the first study semester. 

Important Information for Applicants from Third Countries

Please take note of the Form of the faculty

(relevant only for applicants who are subject to the process described below!)

Link to Statutes for International Orientation and Selection Procedures

Link to attachment: Procedural elements Master Sustainability Management and Technologies (valid for summer semester 2027, pdf)

Applicants from third countries (i.e., non-German citizens or persons with equivalent status) must complete an orientation and selection process. This includes an assessment based on the submitted application documents, and – for shortlisted applicants – a short video interview. Relevant selection criteria will be the GPA of your Bachelor’s degree, your knowledge and (practical/professional) experience relevant to the degree program, and (optional, if available) the results of a standardised graduate test such as the GRE, GMAT or (for Indian applicants) dMAT. For shortlisted candidates, short selection interviews will be conducted between October 2026 and February 2027 (online). The faculty will contact you by e-mail regarding the date for a selection interview in case you are among the shortlisted candidates.

FAQ

What makes the Master’s in "Sustainability Management and Technologies" at Neuburg campus unique?

We offer a unique interdisciplinary curriculum that combines management and leadership skills for sustainable businesses with insights into key technologies for a sustainable future (AI, circular economy, recycling and sustainable supply chain technologies, sustainable building materials and technologies, clean energy and decarbonization technologies), with foundations in all aspects of sustainability (economic, ecological, social), integrated with personal development, intercultural and social skills.

Neuburg campus is a small, lively campus where people from all across the globe come to study and live sustainability; learning in small groups makes it easy to connect with teachers and peers.

International students are actively supported with acquiring German language skills and integrating into the German labour market.

Which subjects can be chosen in addition to the compulsory curriculum?

A list of possible electives that will be offered (subject to changes) is: 

Topic area 1: Business / Management / Economics / Law:

  • Sustainable Market Communication
  • Corporate Venturing and Innovation
  • Management Accounting & International Taxation
  • Global Business Model Design
  • Social Entrepreneurship & Sustainable Innovations
  • Global Business and Economics
  • Environmental Law, Policies and Institutions
  • Social Impact, Sustainability and Compliance
  • Innovation Management Methods
  • Strategic Foresight and Trend Analysis
  • Advanced Economics
  • Future Business Modelling
  • Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence

Topics area 2: Engineering and Sciences:

  • Innovation and New Technologies
  • Hydrogen in Energy Technology and Energy Markets
  • Energy Management and Energy Efficiency
  • Data Engineering and Analytics
  • Technology Design and Evaluation

Topic area 3: Personal Development and Interpersonal Skills:

  • Intercultural Competencies
  • Inner Capacities for Personal Strength and Regenerative Change
  • Rhetorics (including Storytelling)

Who can I contact with which questions?

Please check the contact options here and below:

For prospective students 

(before enrollment):

Responsible office (E-Mail)
Questions related to… 
Choice of study course, study options at THI, information events related to studying at THI, taster lecturesCareer Service & Student Counselling: Contact Choosing a programme
Contents and curriculum of SMT Master’s programmeAcademic Director SMT (julia.blasch@thi.de)
Application for the SMT programme (required documents, procedures, deadlines, etc.)Service Center Study Affairs: Contact Application
Various administrative topics (except application topics) such as credit transfer, change of degree program, reapplication to another program, etc.Contact Aptitude
Services for international students (e.g. visa support)International Welcome Center Contact Visa
For students (after enrollment):Responsible office (E-Mail)
Questions related to… 
Your studies in general, e.g. credit transfer, examinations, student ID card, etc.Service Center Study Affairs
Contents and curriculum of SMT Master’s programmeAcademic Director SMT (julia.blasch@thi.de)
Onboarding, visa matters, registration in Germany, residence permit, finding accommodation, health insurance, mentoring, German language courses, events, excursions, integration, working in Germany, CV checks, writing applications, job entry, career planning, English language workshops, general advice (study organization, study management...)International Welcome Center Contact Living and Working here

 

When do I have to enroll once I have been admitted?

For summer term 2026, please make sure that you enroll no later than April 11, 20256 However, we recommend enrolling before March 9, 2026, to receive all the necessary information before the semester starts on March 16, 2026.

After admission, what if I cannot arrive on campus in time due to long visa wait times?

We offer to all our international students to start the study programme online if they face long visa waiting times. This means that, during the first semester, we offer all course modules in a hybrid fashion, on site for those who can already be on campus, and online for those who are still waiting for their visa. Please be aware that a deferral of the programme start to the next intake (summer semester 2027) is not possible with an admission for the summer semester 2026.

 

Questions

Any questions?

Do you have any questions about applications, admission, enrolment, student finance, accommodation or other general topics? If so, please use our contact form and select the relevant topic. This will ensure your enquiry is sent directly to the relevant contact person(s) and can be answered quickly and effectively.

People

Academic Director

Jump to the top of the page