WHY CHOOSE THIS PROGRAM?
In 4 semesters you will be…
A data-driven strategist,
fusing technology and sustainability,
transforming information into actionable insights,
and instigating a sustainable future.
Why Choose this Program?
As a student of the Master of Science in Data Science for Sustainability at Modul University Vienna, you will find yourself at the forefront of a rapidly evolving field. Studying in Austria and the heart of Europe, you will harness the power of data to address the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges.
Unlike other programs, this Data Science and Sustainability Program specifically focuses on sustainability, making it one of the few in central Europe that prepares graduates to tackle ecological, economic, and societal challenges through data analysis. This program will empower you with the skills to analyze complex datasets, develop innovative solutions, and drive meaningful change across these dimensions.
This Master of Science program offers the perfect springboard into a career in sustainability and data science - whether as an analyst, ESG expert, or consultant - plus a strong foundation for those pursuing further academic research or a PhD in Socio-Economic Sciences. With a focus on research design, critical thinking, and data analysis, you’ll be well-prepared to contribute original insights that shape the future of sustainability.
The MSc in Data Science for Sustainability offers robust technical training in the latest data science technologies plus plenty of opportunity for real-world impact. As you participate in the Sustainability Analytics Project, you will apply the skills and knowledge garnered during your degree to real-world sustainability challenges faced by industries and governments.
Whether you’re advancing from an undergraduate degree or building on professional experience, this Environmental Data Science Degree offers the perfect blend of advanced knowledge, practical application, and research, all within the setting of a Private University Data Science program in Austria.
*This is a new program beginning in Fall 2025 and accreditation is pending
Study Plan
First Year:
In the first year students start with foundational courses in data science, including information visualization, computational modeling, and research design, alongside enrichment courses. The second semester advances into machine learning, information retrieval, and sustainability principles, culminating in a sustainability analytics project that integrates these skills with real-world applications.
Semester 1:
- Foundations of Data Science
- Information Visualization
- Computational Modeling of Social Systems
- Research Design and Methods in Practice
- Enrichment Course I
- Enrichment Course II
Semester 2:
- Information Search and Retrieval
- Machine Learning I
- Principles of Sustainability and Economic Development
- Sustainability Analytics Project
- Enrichment Course III
- Enrichment Course IV
Second Year:
Students drive innovation, devise effective strategies, gain practical experience, and pursue specialized knowledge. The program culminates in a master's thesis, showcasing their research capabilities and subject matter expertise.
Semester 3:
- Machine Learning II
- Econometric Methods and Applications
- Measuring and Assessing Sustainability
- Master Thesis Seminar
- Enrichment Course V
- Enrichment Course VI
- Master Thesis (credit to be given in Semester 4)
Semester 4:
- Master Thesis
- Master Thesis Defense
- Modeling Sustainability Systems
Internship:
Seize the opportunity to integrate a customized internship into your curriculum, allowing you to gain hands-on experience and practical skills through our Industry Excellence Program.
Specializations
Testimonials
“What I enjoy the most is that the MSc program is more time flexible, even more practical, the networking opportunities are higher, and the enrichment courses are led by managing directors and other professionals which prepare you perfectly for the working world.”
Hanna Oberhauser, MSc in Management, 3rd Semester
Master Admissions
When applying to Modul University Vienna for a Master program, you will need to meet the following admissions entry requirements and provide your documents in English through our application portal:
Curriculum vitae (resume)
Letter of motivation (1 A4 page)
Bachelor's Degree (minimum of 3 years)
Bachelor's Transcripts of Records
Copy of passport
Passport-sized photograph
Two letters of recommendation (from academic sources)
Proof of English proficiency level C1.
MBA specific: A minimum of three years of professional experience in a responsible position.
Exceptions: If not available yet, the Bachelor's Degree Diploma may be submitted later on. In such cases, the most up-to-date transcripts must be submitted and provisional admission may be granted until the pending document is submitted.
All Master’s applicants must provide proof of their English proficiency, at minimum level C1 - according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages - through a test taken within the last two years.
ACCEPTED ENGLISH PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR MASTER’S APPLICANTS:
- TOEFL: 570 paper-based test (PBT) or 230 computer-based test (CBT) or 95 Internet-based test (IBT)
- IELTS: overall band score 7.0 (no sub-score below 6.5)
- Pearson Academic: 76 points
- Cambridge Certificate BEC Higher – Grade A or Cambridge Advanced Certificate of English: From Grade C. A minimum of 180 points is required.
Exceptions will only be considered for students who are English natives or have completed their high school education entirely in English at recognized International Schools following American, British, or IB curricula. Our admissions committee maintains the authority to request any additional evidence of English proficiency if deemed necessary.
Suitable Bachelor Degrees for MSc in Management: Suitable preparation includes courses from the realms of Business or Economic Sciences as well as Social Sciences, with a minimum duration of three years and aptitude for research.
Suitable Bachelor Degrees for MSc in International Tourism Management: Suitable preparation includes courses from the realms of Tourism or Hospitality Management, Marketing, Management Science, Technical Sciences, Geography, Planning, Sociology, Policy Sciences, Law, or Economics.
Suitable Bachelor Degrees for MSc in Sustainable Development, Management and Policy: Suitable preparation includes courses from the realms of Environmental Sciences, Biology, Geography, Planning, Sociology, Political Science, Policy Sciences, Law, Management, or Economics.
STUDENT HOUSING
Austrian universities typically do not have their own student housing accommodations. Instead, students in Vienna have a variety of excellent housing providers located throughout the city. Wherever you choose to live, there are some factors that you might want to consider in making your choice.