Introduction to Strategic Sustainable Development
MI2407 (Distance)
In 2010, we expect the course to run 3 times:
Winter iteration: mid-Feb to mid-May closed
Summer iteration: late-June to mid-September running now: July 6th - October 4th)
Fall iteration: mid-September to late December (applications online will open from July 30th to August 14th)
If you are interested to apply, please prepare your degree documents/transcripts and proof of English-language competence. Please beware that many Universities may take a long summer break, so if you want to apply for the Fall 2010 iteration prepare your documents in advance.
This is a part-time study course. Students should expect to commit approximately 4 hours per week to view online materials and participate in online sessions. Additional worktime is required for assignments and readings.
APPLICATIONS
Note: There is a maximum of 60 students for this course, and applications are reviewed on a first come, first served basis (according to the date of online application).
"As a teacher myself, and one who has some experience with the distance-learning environment, I have been very impressed with the quality of this course. Not only is the content challenging and engaging, but the diverse format of the course, with its interactive webinars, group projects, recorded video lectures, discussion forums, and reading assignments, have really struck the perfect balance between flexibility and interactivity. In my opinion, they have created a model for the modern global classroom that others should try to mimic."
Erik Dunmire, PhD, Instructor of Chemistry and Engineering, USA
"It is inspiring and motivating to work together in education projects with students from all over the world and very different working experiences. Next to the content of the course, the people make it really worth the effort."
Gijsbert Koren, Industrial Designer, The Netherlands
First congratulations. This was the best thing I've done in twenty five years. I view the FSSD as one of the phenomenal "just-in-time" socio-intellectual innovations that may tip the scale towards sustainability success. Truly a remarkable phenomenon, product, and process
Sustainability consultant, USA
I could not believe how relevant and appropriate this course was to me! Thanks, I certainly am recommending it to others!
Entrepreneur, Hong Kong
Content
The course will cover 2 modules:
Module 1: Core Concepts of Strategic Sustainable Development (SSD)
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Today's environmental problems from a systems perspective
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The cyclical processes in nature vs. the traditional linear use of materials in today's society
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How to use a systems view and strategic planning for sustainable development
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Principles of sustainability stemming from basic science: thermodynamics, energy, biological systems and social systems
Module 2: Applications of SSD understanding
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Various tools and concepts currently in use for sustainable development, and their individual strengths and limitations.
Aims and learning outcomes
On completion of the course the student will:
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Be able to discuss some of the sustainability challenges facing today's society, including some of the causes of both environmental and society problems.
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Be able to describe the major components of a framework for strategic sustainable development.
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Be able to independently apply the strategic planning tool (the ABCD analysis) to an organization.
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Be able to describe different tools and concepts relevant to sustainable development and demonstrate the ability to apply the SSD framework to describe how these tools and concepts are best utilised.
Learning and teaching
This course is offered to a wide range of graduate-level students in a variety of different educational backgrounds. Through online videos, lectures, group dialogues (both live, via Webinar, and using asynchronous written 'disccussion threads'), and assigned readings, students will gain an understanding of the course content. Students will complete assignments on an individual and small group basis, and will share his/her learnings with others through his/her written documents, group discussions and short presentations. There will be both written and oral examinations. The course will be provided in English.
Prerequisites
This course is open to all students having at least 180 ECTS credit points of University study (or the equivalent), or any Bachelor's Degree equivalent to the Swedish Bachelor's. English language requirements are English A (minimum score of IELTS 5.0 or TOEFL 500). You do not need to be a currently registered student to participate in this course.
Students must have access to broadband internet connection, and will be prepped in advance with information on online conferencing. Additionally, a microphone and webcamera will be required. Starting in 2010, all of BTH's online conferencing is using Adobe Connect, and does not require students to download any software to their personal computers.
While the tuition is currently paid for by the Swedish government, students are required to purchase a course textbook, at a cost of 600 Swedish Kronor (approximately 60 Euros/$100 USD) including shipping fees.
More Information
Please read our 'ANSWERS to FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS'
View the brochure for this course here.
Contacts
Further questions regarding the application process can be directed to Lena Magnusson at lena.magnusson (at) bth.se
Further questions regarding this course content and delivery can be directed to Marco Valente at marco.valente (at) bth.se
Related Studies
See the different single online sustainability courses here.
Interested in completing a full degree? Go to:
- Master's Programme in Strategic Leadership towards Sustainability (MSLS) or the
- Master's in Sustainable Product-Service System Innovation (MSPI)
Would you like to hire our staff to do short (eg. 1-week or 2-week) training sessions with your organisation? Contact us at sustainabilitymasters (at) bth.se to discuss options.
