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 Sustainability

Feb 22
2 min read

This doctorate study program is a 100% research-based academic pathway designed for experienced professionals, researchers, policymakers, and senior executives who aim to generate original knowledge and transformative solutions in the field of sustainability. Positioned at a study level equal to EQF Level 8 and aligned with the Third Cycle of the European Higher Education Area, the program reflects the highest level of academic inquiry and independent research.

The Doctorate in Sustainability is structured to address complex global challenges through advanced interdisciplinary research. It enables candidates to critically explore environmental systems, sustainable economic models, climate governance, circular economy frameworks, sustainable finance, ESG integration, responsible innovation, and long-term resilience strategies. The program emphasizes evidence-based decision-making, theoretical advancement, and applied research with measurable societal impact.

The academic structure consists of seven modules, carefully organized to ensure methodological depth and field specialization:

Four research-focused modules dedicated to advanced research design, epistemology, quantitative and qualitative methodologies, academic writing, publication strategies, and research impact.
Two general modules strengthening leadership in sustainability, global policy analysis, ethics, governance, and strategic transformation.
One specialized module in Sustainability, concentrating on advanced sustainability theory, environmental policy frameworks, sustainable development strategies, ESG standards, and systemic transformation models.

The program culminates in a substantial original research project supported by structured research activities, enabling candidates to contribute new insights to sustainability scholarship and professional practice.

With a minimum duration of 18 months, the Doctorate in Sustainability offers flexibility, allowing participants to extend their study period when necessary to balance academic commitments with professional responsibilities.

This program is particularly suitable for sustainability consultants, corporate strategists, environmental leaders, policy advisors, NGO executives, academic researchers, and senior decision-makers who seek to shape sustainable transformation at institutional, national, or global levels.

By integrating academic rigor, interdisciplinary analysis, and strategic research, the Doctorate in Sustainability prepares graduates to become thought leaders, sustainability architects, and high-level advisors capable of influencing policy, corporate governance, and global sustainability agendas.