Rooted in Caribbean expertise and driven by global purpose, the Climate Studies programme equips emerging leaders with the tools to navigate, influence and challenge.
Whether you're shaping national pollicy, driving sustainable business or building resilient communities, this fully online, flexible program is your launchpad.
Why choose Climate and Development Studies at the ISDJ?
- A global curriculum, grounded in the Caribbean
Leverage the region's lived experience and leadership in climate studies. Learn from experts in the Global South, where the impact is real and the innovation is bold. - Interdisciplinary and impact-focused
This program integrates natural sciences, policy, economics and sustainable development, connecting climate change to the full spectrum of the SDGs. - Designed for change leaders
From climate finance to adaptation policy, you’ll graduate with the skills to lead at the intersection of science, governance and justice – across sectors and borders. - Technology-powered, borderless learning
The ISDJ’s learner-first model delivers high-impact education anywhere in the world. Work while you study. Engage with global peers. Create local change with global tools.
SDGs for this Programme
2. ZERO HUNGER
With 733 million people facing hunger and food systems under threat from climate change, SDG 2 demands sustainable agriculture, equitable food access, and investment in rural communities to end malnutrition in all its forms.
3. GOOD HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
From preventable diseases to mental health crises, billions still lack adequate care. SDG 3 targets universal health coverage, reduced maternal and child mortality, and stronger health systems resilient enough to withstand global emergencies.
7. AFFORDABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY
Energy poverty limits education, healthcare, and economic opportunity. SDG 7 drives the global shift to renewable energy, improves efficiency, and ensures modern, reliable energy reaches the 675 million people still living without electricity.
8. DECENT WORK AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
Economic growth alone is not enough. SDG 8 calls for productive employment, fair wages, safe working conditions, and the eradication of forced labour and child labour — building economies that work for people, not just profit.
13. CLIMATE ACTION
Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. With global emissions at record highs, SDG 13 focuses on strengthening resilience to climate-related hazards, integrating climate measures into policies, and improving education to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
14. LIFE BELOW WATER
Oceans cover 70% of our planet, produce half its oxygen, and support 3 billion livelihoods. SDG 14 combats pollution, overfishing, and ocean acidification — protecting the marine ecosystems on which all life ultimately depends.
15. LIFE ON LAND
1 million species are at risk of extinction. SDG 15 focuses on halting deforestation, restoring degraded land, combating desertification, and protecting biodiversity — the living systems that underpin food, water, and climate stability.
Programme Levels
Master's
- 6 core courses (18 credits)
- 4 electives (12 credits)
- 1 project (6 credits)
Total: 36 credits
56 learning weeks full-time, 96 learning weeks part-time
US$10,000
Postgraduate Diploma
- 5 core courses (15 credits)
- 2 electives (6 credits)
Total: 21 credits
32 learning weeks full-time, 56 learning weeks part-time
US$7,500
Postgraduate Certificate
- 4 core courses (12 credits)
Total: 12 credits
16 learning weeks full-time, 32 learning weeks part-time
US$3,500
What you'll learn
- Climate dynamics and earth systems
- Climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies
- Policy development, implementation and negotiation
- Climate risk assessment and management
- The role of equity, reparation and sustainability in climate action
- Integration of SDGs into climate and development policy
- LEARN MORE
Who Should Apply
Climate and environment professionals
- working in government, regional agencies or international organisations who want to deepen their expertise and expand their capacity to design and lead evidence-based climate solutions
Policy advisors and disaster risk management specialists
- in SIDS and developing countries who need the interdisciplinary tools to formulate and implement effective climate adaptation and mitigation strategies at national, regional and community levels
Advocates and activists
- committed to climate justice who want to ground their work in rigorous science, policy analysis and SDG-aligned frameworks — and amplify their impact
Professionals in key Caribbean economic sectors
- agriculture, health, tourism, energy and beyond — who need to understand and respond to the climate risks shaping their industries
Careers with purpose
Graduates of the Climate and Development Studies program are equipped to lead in roles such as:
- Climate policy advisor
- Sustainability consultant
- Environmental planner
- Disaster risk manager
- NGO program director
- Renewable energy strategist
You won’t just leave with a credential – you’ll leave with a mission.
Admissions Requirements
Option A: Degreed - Honours Applicants
- At least a bachelor's degree or equivalent from a university acceptable to The UWI
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Some programme options may require specific degrees for matriculation
Option B: Degreed - Pass Applicants
- Pass degree with at least two (2) years of post-degree work experience, particularly in a related field
- Some programme options may require specific degrees for matriculation
Option C: Technical/Professional Qualification
- Technical and/or professional qualification(s) from an approved body recognised by The UWI
- Minimum of two (2) years' experience
Option D: Non-Degreed or Certified Applicants
- Relevant work experience with at least five (5) years of management-level experience
- May be subject to interview
- Successful completion of pre-programme qualifying course required
