Climate and Development Studies

Turn the climate crisis into a launchpad for global justice

At the ISDJ, we don't just study the climate crisis – we prepare you to lead solutions from the frontlines.

  • Flexible Online Learning
  • UWI Qualification
  • Applications Open
Duration
16–96 learning weeks (by programme level)
Qualification
Master's · Postgraduate Diploma · Certificate
Study Mode
Fully online, flexible program
Delivery
Technology-powered, borderless learning
Applications
Open
Tuition
US$3,500 – US$10,000

Leading Systemic Change

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.

Outdoor collaboration — Caribbean climate expertise

Why choose Climate and Development Studies at the ISDJ?

  1. 01

    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.

  2. 02

    Interdisciplinary and impact-focused

    This program integrates natural sciences, policy, economics and sustainable development, connecting climate change to the full spectrum of the SDGs.

  3. 03

    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.

  4. 04

    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.

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

Forestry fieldwork — What you'll learn

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

SDGs for this Programme

This program integrates natural sciences, policy, economics and sustainable development, connecting climate change to the full spectrum of the SDGs.

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.

Professional at work — Careers with purpose

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

Detailed course information is available in the programme brochure.

Download brochure

Admissions Requirements

Select the entry pathway that matches your qualifications and experience.

  • 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

Need help determining your eligibility?

Our Admissions team is happy to help.

Contact Admissions

Join the movement

At the ISDJ, climate action is urgent. We centre justice, amplify Caribbean expertise and shape entrepreneurial thinkers to disrupt the status quo.

Apply now and become part of a new generation of climate leaders

Pre-Enroll

Complete an eligibility assessment before submitting your official application.

Apply

Proceed directly to the University's official admissions application.