International Programme in Sustainability: A new milestone for the Alliance

September 20, 2026

A shared European journey bringing together students, teachers and universities around sustainability

The Minor in Sustainability is an innovative interdisciplinary programme developed within the EU GREEN European University Alliance, open to Bachelor’s students from all fields of study.

The Minor invites participants to bring their own disciplinary perspective to a shared learning environment. The programme consists of 24 ECTS credits, combining mandatory and elective learning activities. Throughout the program, students will explore sustainability challenges facing society today, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, water and food security, migration and inclusion, democracy and human rights.

The initiative was developed within the working group on Education of the EU GREEN Alliance and involves the University of Évora (Portugal), University of Gävle (Sweden), University of Oradea (Romania), and University of Parma (Italy), who jointly agreed to launch this pilot phase. Coordination is shared among the partner institutions through the Minor Commission, composed of one representative from each university.

The development of the Minor also relies on the contribution of each partner university. Each institution has appointed a Local Commission, composed of academic and administrative staff, with responsibility for supporting the local implementation of the program, coordinating organisational aspects and contributing to student selection and participation. Their expertise and collaboration are central to shaping the program and its interdisciplinary approach.

The Minor combines two mandatory units — An introduction to sustainability Studies: concepts and principles and Shaping Sustainability: project work — with elective courses offered by the partner universities. Upon successful completion of the International Program in Sustainability, students will receive an official international certificate issued by each University within the framework of the EU GREEN Alliance.

A second call for applications is scheduled to open in Autumn, providing another opportunity for students to join the Minor and take part in this international learning experience.