Al-Quds University: Pioneering Climate Science and Environmental Sustainability Education
Al-Quds University was among the first educational institutions to integrate climate change and environmental sustainability into higher education. The inclusion of these critical subjects into our curriculum empowers students with the abilities and knowledge essential to building a sustainable future. The commitment we have towards an ecologically balanced future is demonstrated by the diversity of our undergraduate and postgraduate offerings.
Al-Quds University graduates with an officially recognized climate science and environmental sustainability qualification. The degrees are accredited by the Ministry of Education and are recognized globally, which affirms Al-Quds University’s status as a global institution.
Master of Renewable Energy and Sustainability
This program aims to educate graduates in advanced study of the disciplines of renewable energy, smart grid systems, power converters, energy policies, energy management and economics. Emphasis is placed not only on the acquisition of technical knowledge, but also on the creation and development of renewable and electrical energy scientific research, which adds to the existing knowledge on the subject.
Master of Water Science Innovations
As water scarcity becomes an increasing concern, the Master’s Water Science Innovations Program assists students with the most recent technologies and innovations in water sciences, which include the prevention and remediation of water pollution, advanced water simulation and modeling, and the application of such technologies in partnerships with European and Arab countries.
Master’s Degree in Sustainable Development
Since the start of the program in 2000, over a thousand graduates have been trained to participate in the comprehensive development programs of varying sectors. The program has established connections and sponsored joint activities with academic and non-governmental organizations interested in sustainable development, which has advanced the cause of sustainable development within Palestinian society.
Bachelor of Professional in Solar Energy Technology (PSET)
This new undergraduate degree program is designed to develop self-employment in the field of solar energy and energy efficiency. Apart from the important aspects of solar energy management, the program also aims to train solar energy scientists and develop professionals to address the gaps in the solar energy industry.
Bachelor’s Degree in Life Sciences
The department provides a major in Life Sciences with three additional subsidiary specializations in Medical Technology, Animal Science, and Plant Science, along with a Biotechnology track. The courses being offered focus on current advancements in the field of biology, such as molecular biology, biotechnology, genetics, and their contemporary applications.
Other Courses
As part of every undergraduate degree, Al-Quds University includes a compulsory course in every program on the study of Drylands and Desertification. This course outlines the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and provides a comprehensive outlook of the climate, the environment as well as the principles of environmental sustainability.
Additionally, Al-Quds University actively participates in the worldwide “Race to Zero” campaign which is part of our commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by the year 2050. We, as a University, recognize the importance of integrating the impact of the climate crisis within the curricula across various disciplines.
These steps strengthen the commitment of Al-Quds University to the preservation of the climate and environmental sustainability. We will continue to be advocates and provide educational qualified possible and climate change combating educational opportunities. We will continue to foster an atmosphere of teaching, research, and active sustainable implementation and practice in order to equip our students, our staff and the entire community to make climate change combating and sustainability possible.
Climate Science and Environmental Sustainability Education at Al-Quds University
Al-Quds University is striving to incorporate environmental sustainability into its integrated teaching, research, and action framework. As part of integrated climate education and environmental consciousness into the curriculum, the university synchronizes its actions with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Race to Zero campaign.
Accredited Degree Programs Dedicated to Climate and Sustainability
There are several accredited degree programs which provide students with the theoretical and practical components of environmental sustainability along with climate science:
Offered in partnership with Palestine Polytechnic University, this program trains graduates in energy effectiveness, smart-grid system integration, and policy, preparing them to drive sustainability changes across Palestine and the surrounding region.
This interdisciplinary program focuses on the science and technologies of sustainable water resource innovation, management water resource modeling, and control of polluted water, and is developed in partnership with European and Arab institutions.
One of the region’s earliest programs in this field and sustainable development, it broadens the students’ understanding and knowledge on the pillars of sustainability – economic, social, and environmental, and has 1,000+ alumni working in various sectors.
Bachelor of Professional Studies in Solar Energy Technology (PSET)
This applied program builds hands-on training in solar systems, energy auditing, and green entrepreneurship, enhancing the capability of the local renewable energy job market.
Professional Bachelor in Sustainable Agriculture
An innovative program combining cutting-edge instruction in the theory and practice of applied research and entrepreneurial action within agriculture, focusing on sustainable food systems and green initiatives.
Bachelor of Science Degree in Life Sciences
This program prepares students with specializations in biotechnology, plant and animal sciences, and environmental biology to respond to ecological and public health challenges.
Sustainability Embedded in the Curriculum
Beyond specialized degrees, Al-Quds University also ensures the inclusion of all-around sustainability in every area of study.
Sustainability Course:
All undergraduate students take a foundational course in sustainability, encompassing climate change, ecological systems, the SDGs, and environmental ethics.
Sustainability Training for Academic Staff:
As of 2025, more than 70% of academic departments have completed training to embed sustainability learning outcomes into their courses.
SMART Goals in Education:
Through the Climate Action Plan, we aim to:
- Achieve the incorporation of sustainability into 50% of all academic offerings by the year 2026
- Ensure 75% of the teaching faculty receive training in sustainability pedagogy
- Assess the sustainability literacy of all graduates by 2027
Research and Engagement
Al-Quds University promotes research and outreach within the Environmental Sustainability Research Center (ESRC) through:
- Interdisciplinary research regarding renewable energy, climate resilience, and green innovation
- Student-led sustainability proposals and green campus sustainability audits
- Community initiatives focused on sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and waste reduction
Credit-Bearing Courses
All the academic offerings in the programs mentioned above are fully accredited by the Palestinian Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and adhere to globally accepted academic norms that feature transferable credits.
They are aligned to climate science, renewable energy, and sustainable development.
Al-Quds University invests in sustainability education to procure the leaders and innovators of tomorrow to guide the world toward a sustainable and equitable future.