The UN's flagship in China: the UNEP-Tongji Institute of Environment for Sustainable Development, co-founded with the UN Environment Programme in 2002, has enrolled 464 students from 83 countries — and Tongji's environment discipline holds an A+ in the Ministry of Education's national evaluation. Alumni sit in the World Bank, UNDP and a dozen national ministries.
Key facts
Duration
24 months (2 years)
Language
English
Format
Full-time
Tuition
39,000 CNY per year
Intake
September
Curriculum modules
Environmental management & policy — Assessment, management instruments and governance.
Sustainable development core — Ecological economy, climate change, water and waste management.
Semester abroad — One semester at a UNEP partner university.
Thesis — Independent research project.
Admission requirements
Bachelor's degree
English proficiency for non-native speakers
Research plan with up to three research topics (per programme prospectus)
Application documents posted to Tongji's International Student Office
Career destinations
Programme Officer — UN agencies & multilaterals (World Bank, UNDP alumni documented)
Environmental Policy Specialist — National ministries
The 2026 Sustainability Degree Shortlist Guide: pick, compare and afford the right programme — plus occasional emails with new programmes, scholarships and application tips.