Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change majoring in International Development

Undergraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City, Magill

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Program code

BSUSC

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$52,300

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115760D

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) in a higher education award program in an undergraduate diploma (AQF level 5) or higher.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Requirement	Score
Australia	ATAR	75
Bangladesh	Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.85
China	Gaokao	65%
China	Maple Leaf Education Systems World School Program	67%
Global	International Baccalaureate	26
Hong Kong	Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	17
India	CBSE and CISCE	75
India	State Board Examinations	85
Indonesia	SMA III	78%
Kenya	Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia	Matrikulasi	2.78
Malaysia	Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	2.78
Malaysia	United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	20
Nepal	National Examinations Board (NEB)	3.01
Phillippines	High School Diploma (Grade 12) (Academic Track) K12	87%
Singapore	Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	8
Sri Lanka	GCE A Levels	9
Taiwan	GSAT %	65%
Thailand	Matayom 6	3.40
UK / Global	GCE Advanced Levels	8
UK / Global	NCUK	8
USA / Global	Advanced Placement (AP)	8
USA / Global	America College Test (ACT)	22
USA / Global	Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)	1130
Vietnam	Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thôxwng (Vietnamese Year 12)	8

Why Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change?

Want to tackle global poverty and inequality as a green-collar professional?

The push for net zero emissions by 2050 is driving demand for ‘green-collar’ graduates worldwide. With an international development major, build a career that shapes a fairer, more sustainable world.

Address global challenges like poverty, inequality, health, human rights and climate resilience.

Tackle the big-picture questions. How do we reduce poverty, build strong communities and promote fair access to resources worldwide? How do we support enduring livelihoods and equip communities for climate change?

Join the growing movement towards a sustainable planet with a green-collar career.

Overview

In our Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change majoring in International Development, you’ll study future-focused strategies, policies, and actions. Learn how to apply these to an international context to reduce global issues like poverty, inequality and exclusion.

Discover the history of policies and practices, and the organisations actively engaged in the green sector. Prepare to be challenged by exploring the important social, environmental, and political issues facing our world today.

Broaden your mind with a study of global environmental politics. Immerse yourself in environmental justice, scarcity of resources, environmental activism, disasters and more.

Learn about humanitarian emergencies, aid and action. How do we reduce the impact on affected communities? What’s the link between immediate emergency response and long-term disaster impact?

Explore the connection between human rights and international development. Is a human rights-based approach a better way to achieve sustainable outcomes?

Focus on different theoretical perspectives and debates concerning sustainability. Learn how nature is conceptualised in policy-making. How are global capitalism, poverty and ecological issues connected?

Key features

Prepare to lead and advocate for the global push towards net zero emissions.
Explore solutions to the critical social, environmental and political issues facing our modern world.
Benefit from real-world, practical experience by completing a professional internship.
Broaden your knowledge and skills across local and international contexts.
Become an ethical communicator who can articulate sustainable responses and policies.
Cultivate analytical and research skills to design, review and deliver future-thinking solutions.

What you'll learn

Our three-year Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change majoring in International Development draws on politics, environmental science, and social sustainability to illustrate the bigger picture.

In your first year, you’ll study the fundamentals of climate change. Discover how natural forces and human actions shape climate change. Unpack its broader consequences, locally and globally.

By second year, you’ll be finding innovative solutions to climate change challenges. Cultivate the skills to respond to key issues. Master communication strategies.

Your final year brings it all together in the real world. A practical internship means you’ll apply your learning in industry. You’ll grow in professional confidence knowing where your future lies.

Our International Development major will challenge you with thought-provoking practical workshops, simulations, case studies and group projects. Build transferable skills, including critical thinking, problem solving and report writing.

Study future-focused courses across topics including:

Introduction to international development
Poverty reduction
Empowerment, gender and community development
Humanitarian emergencies, aid and action
Climate change and sustainable development
Rights and development.

Start with the key concepts and debates across the international development sector. Next, learn about the history of development policies and practices.

You’ll explore the policies and practices of poverty reduction by examining key development indices. At this stage, you’ll start devising practical solutions to the world’s biggest problems.

Discover how international development programs are designed, managed and evaluated to bring about lasting change.

Learn about humanitarian emergencies. Consider their impact on affected communities. What is the role humanitarian aid plays in disaster risk reduction? How does an immediate emergency response impact in the longer-term?

Majors

Adelaide University’s Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change is also available with majors in the following:

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

66 units for Core courses, and
48 units for one Major from Majors, and
12 units for all Work integrated learning, and
18 units for Electives

Complete 66 units comprising:

18 units for all Common core, and
48 units for all Program core

	Course code	Units
Course name Understanding Complexities Impacting Families and Communities	Course code EDUC1003	Units 6
Course name First Nations Peoples and Knowledges and Culturally Responsive Teaching	Course code INDG4000	Units 6
Course name The Brain and Learning	Course code PSYC2007	Units 6

	Course code	Units
Course name Humanity in a Changing Climate	Course code ENVI1000	Units 6
Course name Fundamentals of Climate Change	Course code ENVI1001	Units 6
Course name Culture, Society and Climate Change	Course code ENVI1002	Units 6
Course name Global Environmental Politics	Course code POLI1005	Units 6
Course name Responding to Climate Change	Course code ENVI2001	Units 6
Course name Communicating Climate Change	Course code ENVI2002	Units 6
Course name Climate Change Policy	Course code ENVI3000	Units 6
Course name Climate Change and Sustainable Development	Course code ENVI3001	Units 6

Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Introduction to International Development	Course code POLI1007	Units 6
Course name Poverty Reduction: Doing International Development	Course code POLI1008	Units 6
Course name Empowerment, Gender and Community Development	Course code POLI2004	Units 6
Course name How to Change the World: Practicing Development	Course code POLI2005	Units 6
Course name Humanitarian Emergencies, Aid and Action	Course code POLI2006	Units 6
Course name Environment and Development	Course code POLI3015	Units 6
Course name International Development Practice: Design Project	Course code POLI3016	Units 6
Course name Rights and Development	Course code POLI3017	Units 6

Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Professional Pathways and Destinations 2	Course code SOCI2019	Units 6
	Course name Society and Culture Internship	Course code SOCI3902	Units 6

Complete 18 units comprising:

18 units for all Free electives

Career outcomes

With climate change and global warming increasing over the past 20 years, the world needs leaders capable of driving positive change.

You could find yourself working on society’s key issues with policy makers, scientists, politicians, sustainability managers or CEOs.

Lead a major organisation – locally or globally – in the private or public sector, towards greener, more sustainable solutions.

You could work in a career such as:

Environmental analyst
Community development officer
Renewable energy project manager
Sustainability manager
Policy advisor
International aid and development manager.

Fancy working in humanitarian aid? You could build a career as a policy advisor, program manager, or project coordinator for government agencies like the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). These roles often focus on sustainable development, humanitarian aid and diplomatic efforts to tackle poverty and inequality. (Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, 2024)

Industry trends

To meet the 2050 net zero emissions target, the Australian job market needs confident, skilled professionals to lead organisations in sustainable practices.

With more than 76,000 new roles predicted for the renewable energy, ecosystem restoration and climate reduction sectors – the future of work looks bright (Climate Council of Australia, 2024) (APS Jobs, 2023).

New opportunities are always emerging in digital development and data analytics. International development graduates might seek roles that leverage technology – for resource management, health programs – or responding to challenges like social divides and disaster preparation (Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, 2024).

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: