Programme overview

During the first semester of the first year you will gain a broad understanding of Industrial Ecology by acquiring thorough knowledge and skills needed for the analysis of sustainability problems, and the design and implementation of solutions. In the second semester you will focus on the integration and application of the knowledge and skills gained in the first semester by doing a project on an urban or industry system. In addition, you can choose from a big variety in specialization courses from TU Delft and Leiden University. The second year is aimed at further integration and application, in the form of a second project course (working for an external commissioner), and your thesis research project.

Why study Industrial Ecology at Leiden University?

• You will learn concepts, methods and tools to help you identify, design and critically evaluate sustainability solutions and their implementation.
• We offer an international multidisciplinary environment, where all students bring their own specific bachelor knowledge and cultural background.
• Collaboration with third parties, such as national or international partner universities, NGOs, industrial partners, or government institutes is encouraged and facilitated.
• You will be inspired by professors from two world-class universities, who are at the forefront of the field of Industrial Ecology.

With a joint-degree diploma in Industrial Ecology you are well prepared for broad array of career prospects in business, industry and government, as well as non-governmental organisations, universities and research institutes.

Student stories:

Margot: “I have always been very torn between social sciences and learning more about natural sciences and technical sciences. The Industrial Ecology programme connects the different fields. Climate change is a very complex field. You can’t solve climate change issues with only one discipline. During the master I learned that each individual has a lot more capacity to act upon. A lot more potential is available, in terms of the technology we can use, the businesses we can create and the people we can engage with in projects. This is a liberating feeling. Instead of worrying, I learn what I can do and what I can change.”

Arjang: “I chose this IE program in order to expand my viewpoint on sustainability issues beyond what engineering had taught me. The wide variety of perspectives and interests that the program brings together through a diverse set of both students and staff have been invaluable in allowing me to achieve this goal. In addition, the program offers easy access to electives at both TUDelft and Leiden University that have undoubtedly enriched my knowledge base and skill set, giving me a strong foundation for my master’s thesis and future endeavours.”

More information:

Would you like to learn more about the programme? Take a look at this introduction to Industrial Ecology – by a current student:

E-mail: studyadvisor-ie@cml.leidenuniv.nl

Website: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/education/study-programmes/master/industrial-ecology

Find us during the Next Step Master Day on 27^th of February 2024!