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Overview

The MSc in Sustainable Finance (formerly called the MSc in Renewable Energy & Environmental Finance) is designed to provide students with real-world insights into the application of finance in achieving sustainable outcomes for corporations, and the process of investing in, financing, and building sustainable development projects, including renewable energy and green initiatives. 

It is estimated that achieving the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 will require investments of $5-7 trillion annually across both the public and private sector. The estimated $2.5 trillion investment gap every year in the developing world is a significant challenge but also an opportunity for policy makers, investors and businesses alike.

In this respect, the course will advance your understanding of finance theory and the application of sustainability factors to financial markets. The course also features a strong low carbon energy component and aims to equip students with creative and analytical approaches to problem-solving in the sustainable finance context as well as enhance the students’ interpersonal and leadership skills. Additionally, students are prepared with the skills necessary in today’s world, such as coding and building green portfolios.

This MSc in Sustainable Finance is suitable for graduates with backgrounds not only in business, finance and economics, but in fields such as environmental science, physics, engineering, and math, who are keen to pursue a career in the sustainable business and finance industry.

The programme can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis. The part-time option enables current professionals with the relevant background to combine working life with study, however this is dependent on students’ employment commitments.  Note that this is not a dedicated part-time programme and that part-time students will be required to attend lectures, tutorials and complete group assignments in conjunction with the full-time cohort, for whom the schedule is primarily during working hours for a block of hours on several days a week.  Modules in autumn trimester will be delivered in a compressed format meaning that modules are taught intensively over two 6 week periods, requiring additional attendance at lectures and tutorials. Employer support is therefore essential.

CFA Certificate in ESG Investing

UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School has been accepted into the CFA Certificate in ESG Investing Recognition Programme with the School’s MSc in Sustainable Finance programme. The recognition confirms that UCD Smurfit School’s MSc in Sustainable Finance recognises essential topics from the CFA Certificate in ESG Investing and acknowledges ESG in finance as a global priority. The CFA Certificate in ESG Investing gives holders the ability to incorporate ESG factors (environmental, social, and governance) into their investment decision-making process– capabilities that are increasingly sought after.

Quick Facts

92%*

Employed after 6 months

12 Months

Full-Time Programme Duration

24 Months*

Part-Time Programme Duration

End August 2025

Starting

Class Profile

Based on the class of 2024/2025

13

Class size

25

Average Age

64%/36%

Female/Male

7

Nationalities

71%

International class %

The Smurfit Experience

View our Video Gallery and Webinars On-Demand to gain a deeper insight into our programmes and the student experience. These videos and webinars provide valuable and practical insight as you consider your Business Masters options.

Events

Apr

9

Masters and MBA Virtual Open Evening

Virtual Event

Read More

Discover our Rankings and Accreditations

Athena Swan
EQUIS
AACSB
AMBA
Financial Times
The Economist
GNFAM
GBSN
PIM
PRME
CEMS
UNICON