We want to motivate and empower our students to act sustainably.
We teach sustainability.
- Goal 1: Integrating sustainability topics into both existing and future courses, such as through elective modules
- Goal 2: Developing additional study programmes focused on sustainability
- Goal 3: Increasing the visibility of sustainability in our teaching, for example, through a series of events on sustainability as part of our general studies programme
- Goal 4: Promoting sustainable engagement among students, such as by offering awards for outstanding contributions
Implemented measures, projects & achievements
Integration of sustainability content into relevant study programmes
To incorporate key future topics of sustainable development into our existing study programmes, we engaged in discussions with all our programme directors. As a result, we introduced three options for integrating sustainability topics: the introduction of an elective/mandatory module on the fundamentals of sustainability, the development of a new, programme-specific module focused on sustainability, and the creation of a new specialization in sustainability within certain study programmes. Additionally, we thoroughly updated the study materials in the foundational sustainability module.
Optimizing the accreditation and product development process for sustainability
To align our accreditation and product development processes with sustainability principles, we fundamentally revised all templates and processes used in developing new study programmes. This ensures that sustainability aspects are actively considered, integrated, and prioritized during the development of new products.
Increasing the visibility of sustainability
To raise awareness and visibility of sustainability among our staff, we have integrated the topic into various exchange formats and events. Sustainability has played a prominent role in general assemblies, our online training format "Knowledge Inside," and in employee communications regarding saving energy and waste separation. Additionally, at our administrative headquarters in Riedlingen, a lecture was given by our beekeeper as part of the inauguration of our beehives, highlighting the importance of sustainability.
To enhance the visibility and awareness of sustainability among our students, we integrated the subject into our general studies programme. The following topics were covered in the Studium Generale series: "The Sustainability Strategy of SRH Fernhochschule – The Distance Learning University" (August 2022), "Students Speak on Sustainability" (November 2022), "Alumni Speak on Sustainability" (February 2023), and "Corporate Partners Speak on Sustainability" (May 2023).
Promoting sustainable engagement among our students
To inspire our students to engage with the topic of sustainability during their studies and to encourage them to explore it academically, we have introduced an award for the best thesis in the field of sustainability. This prize is awarded annually.
Highlight: Special Award "Digitale Bildung – Nachhaltig in die Zukunft"
Our university has won a special award for sustainability! SRH Fernhochschule – The Distance Learning University is a pioneer in the digital education market, including the area of sustainability. For our commitment to teaching sustainability digitally and operating sustainably ourselves, we were honored with the special award "Digitale Bildung – Nachhaltig in die Zukunft" by the German Association of Distance Learning Providers (Bundesverband der Fernstudienanbieter e.V.).
How do we teach sustainability?
Our educational programmes in sustainability marked the true starting point for our comprehensive sustainability strategy. Whether you're pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or looking for certificates, our sustainability courses offer something for everyone!
Development and advancement of our degree programmes with a focus on sustainability
- Bachelor's degree programmes
In the Bachelor's degree programme in Industrial Engineering, a specialization in "Sustainability Technologies" was developed, which launched in Fall 2023.
- Master's degree programmes
The English-language Master's degree programme "Global MBA in Sustainability" was developed and officially launched on September 1, 2023.
Areas of our sustainability strategy
Learn more about the goals and measures of our sustainability strategy. Our overall institutional strategy includes social, ecological and economic aspects.