Singapore launches world’s first advanced degrees in sustainable healthcare for low-carbon future

Climate change poses a direct and urgent threat to the health of patients and the viability of health systems in Asia, and across the world. Singapore is tackling this challenge head on, with the Centre for Sustainable Medicine (CoSM) at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS Medicine), announcing the launch of the world’s first Master of Science in Sustainable Healthcare, and an accompanying Executive Fellowship.

The new postgraduate programmes will fill gaps in the healthcare sector that were identified in a recent study by the Centre. More than eight in 10 (82%) of clinicians surveyed said they support action to tackle climate change in Singapore’s healthcare system, while nine in 10 want Singapore to be a champion of net zero healthcare. With 85 out of 120 of the world’s top publicly listed companies in biotech, health, and pharma sectors having climate pledges or strategies in place, healthcare sustainable jobs are expected to be on the rise.

Designed for early-career professionals and graduates with relevant exposure to the healthcare or sustainability space, the one-year full-time Master of Science in Sustainable Healthcare delivers comprehensive training in climate-smart healthcare. Core modules cover practical skills such as conducting life cycle assessments, strategies to manage the low carbon transition in healthcare and the application of ISO14040 standards.

The Executive Fellowship in Sustainable Healthcare, on the other hand, is designed to empower experienced professionals to drive meaningful change within their organisations. The year-long part-time hybrid graduate certificate offers flexibility to learn at their convenience (online or in person), making it ideal for emerging clinical leaders, national policymakers, and seasoned professionals and executives from healthcare and sustainability.