Study Fee: Click here to view the t(/study-fee)uition and subscription options.(/study-fee)(/study-fee) Monthly study plans start from €499 per month, depending on the program and level of academic support selected.

Study Method: This program is delivered 100% online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world with flexible scheduling. Students may also have the option to attend the graduation ceremony in Switzerland, subject to visa approval and travel regulations.

Study Language: The program is delivered in English. Students are expected to have sufficient English language proficiency to complete the coursework and academic requirements.

Applications can be submitted online through our admission portal.(/apply)(/apply) Applicants may also contact or visit our offices in different regions, including: • Europe: Switzerland • GCC: Dubai (UAE) • Asia: Bishkek Our admissions team will guide you through the application and enrollment process.

Programs are offered through a flexible monthly subscription system, allowing students to progress at their own pace while maintaining access to academic resources and support services.

This program has a minimum study period depending on the academic level and program structure. Students may complete the program at their own pace while maintaining an active monthly subscription.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should meet the academic entry requirements for the respective program level. Typical requirements may include: • A previous academic qualification relevant to the program level • A copy of passport or national ID • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume • Completed online application form Additional documents may be requested depending on the program and the institution delivering the program.

Certification / Degree Awarded

Upon successful completion of all academic requirements, students will receive the corresponding certificate or academic degree issued by the responsible institution within the VBNN Smart Education Group network.

Doctorate in Climate Policy and Sustainable Development Strategy

22 hours ago
3 min read

The Doctorate in Climate Policy and Sustainable Development Strategy (International Focus) is a 100% research-based doctorate study program designed for professionals, researchers, policy-minded thinkers, and strategic decision-makers who want to examine the growing relationship between climate governance, sustainability planning, development priorities, and global transformation. This doctorate study program is intended for those who wish to engage in advanced research and critical analysis in one of the most important areas shaping the future of societies, institutions, and international cooperation.

The program is academically positioned at a level comparable to ISCED level 8 and EQF level 8. ISCED, the International Standard Classification of Education, is a global framework used to classify education levels in a clear and internationally comparable way. EQF, the European Qualifications Framework, is a European reference system that helps compare qualifications based on learning outcomes, academic depth, and complexity. At this advanced level, learners are expected to demonstrate highly developed knowledge, strong independent research ability, original thinking, and the capacity to contribute meaningful academic and professional insights. The program is also comparable to the third cycle of European higher education.

This doctorate study program is developed for those who want to investigate how climate policy is influencing public governance, sustainable development models, environmental planning, institutional strategy, and international agendas. Climate-related challenges are no longer viewed only as environmental matters; they are now closely connected to economic resilience, social responsibility, energy transition, regulatory development, and long-term policy design. Sustainable development strategy, in this context, requires a deeper understanding of how institutions and societies can respond to climate realities while still supporting innovation, stability, and future-oriented growth.

The structure of the program includes 7 modules designed to support high-level academic development and advanced research capability. Four modules are research-related, helping learners strengthen their skills in research methodology, academic analysis, critical inquiry, and scholarly writing. Two modules are general modules, supporting broader doctoral-level understanding and interdisciplinary reflection. One module is focused specifically on the study field, allowing participants to explore climate policy and sustainable development strategy as a specialized area of advanced study. The program also includes thesis and research activities, encouraging learners to develop original, substantial, and academically meaningful work throughout their research journey.

The normal minimum duration of the program is 18 months or more, while also giving participants the flexibility to extend their study period according to their professional responsibilities, personal commitments, or research needs. This flexibility makes the program suitable for international learners who are looking for a serious research pathway with adaptable timing.

The international focus of the program reflects the fact that climate policy and sustainable development are global concerns that cross borders, systems, and sectors. Questions related to environmental governance, international cooperation, development strategy, climate adaptation, sustainability transitions, and long-term policy planning are relevant in many different national and institutional contexts. For this reason, the program encourages comparative thinking, critical reflection, and research with international relevance.

Overall, this doctorate study program provides an advanced academic platform for those who want to contribute to the understanding of climate policy and sustainable development strategy through serious, research-based work. It is suited to learners who want to produce thoughtful and relevant research in a field of growing importance for governments, institutions, organizations, and society as a whole.