The Master of Science in Sustainability is a respected graduate program at Istanbul Technical University. Designed for students who want to address environmental, social and economic challenges of our time, this full-time international program combines interdisciplinary academic training with practical and research-oriented education. Students study sustainable development, environmental science, resource management, climate change mitigation, circular economy, urban sustainability, and renewable energy systems — preparing them for roles as sustainability specialists, environmental consultants or policy analysts. The program is structured across four semesters and admits students every fall semester.
Located in Istanbul, a global metropolis facing complex environmental and urban challenges, this master’s program emphasizes both theoretical depth and real-world application. With access to modern labs, research centers, and a broad network of experts across energy, environment, urban planning and policy fields, students gain practical knowledge and interdisciplinary perspective. The program reflects ITU’s commitment to sustainable development and innovation, making it an excellent choice for those who want to contribute to a more sustainable future — locally and globally.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Program Type: With Thesis (primary — but may allow non-thesis / applied project depending on regulations)
- Location: Istanbul (ITU Ayazağa / relevant campus)
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Fall semester only
- Area of study: Sustainability, Environmental Science, Circular Economy, Renewable Energy, Urban & Industrial Sustainability, Resource Management
- Admission modus: Eligible graduates from 4-year engineering, architecture or basic science faculties can apply.
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Sustainability
- Sustainable Development Fundamentals and Mindset
- Introduction to Environmental Systems & Ecology
- Mathematical Methods in Sustainability Applications
- Research Methods & Ethical Seminar
- Seminar / Course in Sustainability Management
Semester 2 – Applied Sustainability & Systems Thinking
- Climate Change: Science, Impacts and Mitigation
- Energy, Resources & Sustainable Technologies
- Industrial Ecology and Cleaner Production
- GIS & Spatial Tools for Sustainability / Smart Cities
- Elective Course
Semester 3 – Policy, Economy & Circular Systems
- Development Economics / Economics & Sustainability
- Waste Minimization, Recycling & Circular Economy
- Urban and Industrial Sustainability Planning
- Elective / Interdisciplinary Course
- Applied Project or Seminar
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis (or Final Project)
- Independent Research Thesis in Sustainability or Applied Sustainability Project
- Thesis/Project Writing & Defense
- Final Seminar & Presentation
- Professional Preparation & Portfolio
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program can work in environmental policy institutions, governmental or non-governmental organizations, sustainability consulting firms, urban and regional planning offices, energy and renewable energy companies, waste management and circular economy enterprises, research institutes or academic institutions. They may become sustainability specialists, environmental analysts, project managers for green projects, policy advisors, urban sustainability planners, resource and environmental engineers, or consultants for corporate sustainability strategies. Some continue in academia or research, focusing on climate change, renewable energy, sustainable development, or circular economy studies. The interdisciplinary and applied nature of the program equips graduates to handle complex global challenges and offer sustainable solutions.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Sustainability master’s program at ITU means joining a forward-looking field that addresses the planet’s most urgent challenges — climate change, resource scarcity, urbanization and environmental protection. Students learn to integrate knowledge from engineering, environmental science, policy, economics and social sciences to develop holistic and effective solutions. The program fosters critical thinking, systems-level understanding and interdisciplinary collaboration — skills crucial for modern sustainability issues.
The program’s strength lies in its combination of academic excellence, practical research opportunities, and a broad network spanning energy, environment, urban planning and policy — giving students both the theoretical foundation and real-world perspective. With access to labs, projects, and collaborations, students build hands-on experience and prepare to take active roles in creating sustainable futures. If you are passionate about sustainability, global responsibility and environmental innovation — this programme offers a powerful and meaningful pathway.
Contact Information
Istanbul Technical University – Sustainability Master Program & Sustainability Office
Ayazağa / Maslak Campus, 34469
Maslak / Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 212 285 71 12
Email: sustainability@itu.edu.tr
Graduate School / Program Contact – Sustainability MSc
Ayazağa Campus,
Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 212 285 64 64
Email: sustainability@itu.edu.tr
