In 2015, the UN launched the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Adopted by 193 member states, the goals represent an important international step in setting humanity on a trajectory towards sustainable development. Within this course, you will get a historical overview of how sustainability has been understood, as well as a thorough introduction to the SDGs – what they are, how progress can be measured, and how the SDGs are relevant for the management of the global systems supporting humanity. The course will examine how various societal actors are responding to and implementing the SDGs.
Offered By
The Sustainable Development Goals – A global, transdisciplinary vision for the future
University of CopenhagenAbout this Course
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Learner Career Outcomes
44%
started a new career after completing these courses
27%
got a tangible career benefit from this course
Shareable Certificate
Earn a Certificate upon completion
100% online
Start instantly and learn at your own schedule.
Flexible deadlines
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Beginner Level
Approx. 10 hours to complete
English
Subtitles: English
Learner Career Outcomes
44%
started a new career after completing these courses
27%
got a tangible career benefit from this course
Shareable Certificate
Earn a Certificate upon completion
100% online
Start instantly and learn at your own schedule.
Flexible deadlines
Reset deadlines in accordance to your schedule.
Beginner Level
Approx. 10 hours to complete
English
Subtitles: English
Offered by
University of Copenhagen
The University of Copenhagen is the oldest University in Denmark - founded in 1479, and with over 38,000 students and more than 9,000 employees. The purpose of the University is to conduct research and provide education to the highest academic level. Based in Denmark's capital city it is one of the top research institutions in Europe.
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
3 hours to complete
Sustainable Development as a Global Goal
In this first module, you will be introduced to the concept of sustainability, its roots, and history of development. The framework of the SDGs is outlined in more detail, and we will discuss what sets them apart from previous international agreements, how we can measure progress and how the goals are interconnected. We will touch upon food systems, as an example of how the SDGs are relevant for - and can be implemented in - global systems through international cooperation.
3 hours to complete
3 videos (Total 40 min), 3 readings, 1 quiz
3 videos
How do we measure progress?15m
SDG Interactions – One for All and All for One!13m
3 readings
The sustainable development goals45m
A Guide to SDG Interactions, ICSU, 20171h
Additional material: The Brundtland Report, 1987
1 practice exercise
Week 118m
3 hours to complete
Managing human impacts on the natural world
In this second module, we will have a more detailed look at the scientific evidence that human activities are influencing the Earth at the planetary level. You will be introduced to the concepts of Anthropocene and Planetary Boundaries. The biosphere (all living organisms or "biodiversity") is arguably just as - or more - important than climate for establishing the environmental conditions we enjoy on Earth, but receives much less attention. This module, therefore, will focus on monitoring and managing human impacts on climate and biodiversity as well as the potential consequences of failing to meet the goals of the SDGs relating to climate and biodiversity.
3 hours to complete
3 videos (Total 48 min), 2 readings, 1 quiz
2 readings
Agriculture production as a major driver of the Earth system exceeding planetary boundaries50m
Resilience and disaster risk reduction: an etymological journey40m
1 practice exercise
Week 218m
3 hours to complete
Social sustainability and the way forward
Where the last module focused on the impact of humanity's activities on the bio-physical components of the Earth system, this final section first focuses on the condition of humans, themselves, and the SDGs focusing on the improvement of that condition. You will be introduced to the concept of Doughnut Economics, which builds on the Planetary Boundaries framework. Finally, this module examines current status for implementation and provides examples of how different actors are engaging in global efforts to achieve the goals.
3 hours to complete
3 videos (Total 60 min), 4 readings, 1 quiz
4 readings
World Food Programme: Hunger and Climate Change30m
Kate Raworth: Doughnut Economics1h
Additional material: Sustainability lecture with Kate Raworth
Additional material: Income Inequality and Health: A Causal Review
1 practice exercise
Week 318m
Frequently Asked Questions
When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?
Once you enroll for a Certificate, you’ll have access to all videos, quizzes, and programming assignments (if applicable). Peer review assignments can only be submitted and reviewed once your session has begun. If you choose to explore the course without purchasing, you may not be able to access certain assignments.
What will I get if I purchase the Certificate?
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What is the refund policy?
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