The University of Sussex is set to introduce the UK’s first undergraduate degree with a focus on climate justice. The BA course, titled “climate justice, sustainability and development,” is slated to begin in 2026. The university aims to equip students with expertise in climate politics, activism, and environmental human rights, according to their announcement.

The program will also incorporate practical green skills necessary for driving change. Dr. Will Lock, a lecturer in international development and anthropology who is involved in developing the new course, stated that the university already emphasizes a hands-on approach to environmental studies. The course will utilize the university’s campus forest food garden, among other resources, to provide students with experiential learning opportunities.

Lock further explained, “We’re introducing new forms of assessment and engagement. For example, my third-year module is focused on political ecology and environmental justice. Instead of a traditional 5,000-word essay, students will work in groups to create podcasts that convey the complexities of their case studies to a wider audience.”

This development follows a Future Forum survey, which found that 72% of 14- to 18-year-olds have expressed a desire for more relevant and rigorous climate change education, with a specific interest in the humanities and social sciences.

Lock noted that students are already passionate about climate justice due to their personal experiences with the issue. He stated, “The world is changing rapidly, and students feel a sense of urgency to get involved. Climate change is at the heart of today’s politics, and people naturally want to learn more about it.”

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/education/2025/feb/27/sussex-to-launch-uks-first-climate-justice-undergraduate-degree