UNU–TUHH Joint MSc Program

Climate-Informed Engineering and Sustainability Transitions

within the MSc Environmental Engineering

The Joint UNU–TUHH MSc Program in Environmental Engineering offers students the opportunity to combine their regular TUHH Master of Science degree with a structured academic and research program developed in collaboration with the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH).

The program focuses on Climate-Informed Engineering and Sustainability Transitions, connecting engineering education with global challenges in climate change, water, sustainability and resilience. Students gain access to UNU expertise, UN-related training, international research networks and opportunities to work on topics aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Who can apply?

The program is open to students enrolled in the English-language MSc program in Environmental Engineering at TUHH. Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic performance, English proficiency, and a clear motivation to engage with sustainability and UN-related global challenges. Admission to the joint track is based on a formal application and selection process.

Program at a glance

The joint program maintains the academic requirements of the TUHH MSc while adding selected UNU-related components. The overall program remains 120 ECTS.

Component

Current TUHH MSc Program

UNU–TUHH Joint MSc Program – Climate-Informed Engineering and Sustainability Transitions

Core ModulesComplete all mandatory core modules as defined in the TUHH MSc curriculum.Core modules remain unchanged. Students additionally complete Introduction to Climate-Informed Engineering, including a UNU-INWEH lecture/workshop.
ElectivesElectives selected within the TUHH-approved catalogue according to program rules.Students select at least three electives from a shortlist aligned with the UNU Hub's strategic areas.
UN TrainingProfessional seminars are optional depending on the program structure.Completion of at least three UN online short courses, representing a minimum of 20 hours of training.
Experiential ComponentNo mandatory UN component.Completion of an applied activity, such as a journal article, UN case study, joint workshop, research collaboration/internship or public outreach product.
MSc ThesisResearch thesis supervised by TUHH faculty according to TUHH regulations.Thesis co-supervised by TUHH faculty and an affiliated researcher within UNU or the UN system, with a topic aligned with the SDGs and the thematic focus of the UNU Hub.

What will you gain?

Students combine TUHH's engineering education with international and policy-oriented experience. The program provides opportunities to:

  • engage with UNU and UN experts and research networks;
  • develop expertise in climate-informed engineering and sustainability;
  • connect engineering research with the SDGs and international policy priorities;
  • gain experience translating scientific and engineering knowledge into policy-relevant outputs;
  • undertake an internationally co-supervised MSc thesis; and
  • strengthen their preparation for careers in international organizations, NGOs, sustainability and climate consulting, development institutions, research and doctoral programs.

Degree and UNU recognition

Upon successful completion, students receive:

TUHH Master of Science degree
+
UNU-INWEH Certificate in “Climate-Informed Engineering and Sustainability Transitions”

Study without extending your degree

The program builds on the existing TUHH MSc requirements and integrates the additional UNU components within the degree structure, providing international engagement and an additional UNU credential without extending the standard duration of study.

Interested in joining the program?
Information on the application process will be published on this page soon.

Stay tuned for updates!