Chiang Mai University (CMU) demonstrates its commitment to sustainable development through four specialized international undergraduate programs that prepare future leaders to address pressing environmental and social challenges. These programs provide diverse pathways for students to engage with sustainability through different disciplinary approaches while fostering global partnerships.
Bachelor of Science in Sustainability (BSc in Sustainability/ESG)
Hosted by the Faculty of Political Science and Public Administration, this four-year degree integrates science and liberal arts to equip students with knowledge of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) perspectives. The program’s interdisciplinary curriculum draws from environmental science, engineering, agriculture, sociology, economics, and political science.
What distinguishes this program is its focus on preparing students to become change-makers at national and international levels, with career opportunities spanning the private sector, government agencies, and international organizations. Prospective students must submit a personal portfolio demonstrating their involvement in sustainability activities, reflecting CMU’s commitment to attracting students with genuine passion for sustainable development.
Bachelor of Arts in Social Science and Sustainable Development (SSSD)
Established in 2011, the SSSD program provides students with a comprehensive foundation in social sciences within the context of globalization and sustainable development. The curriculum incorporates anthropology, sociology, political science, geography, development studies, and gender studies, enabling students to understand complex economic, political, social, and environmental changes.
A highlight of this program is its three-month internship with organizations domestically and regionally, offering practical experience in professional environments. The cross-cultural learning environment fosters mutual understanding among students from diverse backgrounds while enhancing English language proficiency. Graduates pursue careers in international organizations, research institutes, governmental agencies, and non-governmental organizations.
Bachelor of Arts in Humanities and Sustainability (BAHS)
The BAHS program takes a humanities-centered approach to sustainability challenges, emphasizing the application of humanities knowledge to solve problems effectively and creatively. Students analyze the diversity and complexity of global societies and develop skills in multiple languages and emerging technologies.
The program requires applicants to submit a portfolio highlighting their involvement in humanistic or cultural activities and an essay addressing their upbringing and a societal issue that requires humanistic perspectives beyond science and technology. This unique admission requirement ensures students bring diverse perspectives to sustainability challenges, recognizing that technical solutions alone are insufficient for complex problems.
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science (ES)
The ES program provides students with technical and scientific knowledge to address environmental challenges. The science-based curriculum focuses on fundamental environmental science, preparing students to develop solutions for environmental sustainability issues.
Students gain expertise in environmental assessment, management, and conservation through specialized coursework. The program emphasizes practical applications of scientific knowledge to environmental challenges, positioning graduates to contribute substantively to sustainable development initiatives.
Integrated Approach to Sustainability Education
Together, these four programs form a comprehensive educational framework addressing sustainability from multiple perspectives—environmental science, social sciences, humanities, and integrated ESG approaches. Each program offers students distinct disciplinary pathways while sharing a common commitment to sustainable development.
By offering these specialized international programs, CMU demonstrates its institutional commitment to sustainability education and global partnerships. Through these dedicated educational pathways, CMU is helping to build the next generation of sustainability leaders equipped to create a more sustainable future through collaborative action and innovation.
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