Career perspectives
Results of the graduate survey
The results of the first SEM graduate survey, which also included questions about the professional career, can be found here: Results of the SEM graduate survey
Career perspectives
Career prospects
The SEM degree has one of the largest alumni networks compared to other German master programmes with a focus on sustainability. The more than 600 alumni occupy positions in renowned companies, public authorities, international organisations and NGOs. Considering the challenges and discussions that go along with climate change and sustainability, SEM graduates are offered a wide range of career opportunities and expert positions by employers. Alumni are especially demanded in companies with sustainability, environmental and communications departments, or work in specific projects, such as the introduction of an environmental management system in a large company.
However, also start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises, especially those operating in the constantly growing environmental and renewable energy sector, are searching for trained staff. Consultancy or assessments (Gutachten?) are another broad professional field that is accessible for SEM graduates. In addition, an increasing demand for sustainability experts in various political or public institutions, associations, international organisations, NGOs and authorities at national, EU or global level opens up job opportunities. For alumni the situation in academic professions is also favorable, where an increasing number of sustainability-oriented research projects are being funded.
The interdisciplinary structure of the SEM degree further allows for flexibility when it comes to career choices. Almost half of the students receive a job offer already during their studies. The other half typically finds a job within very few months.
Career Service of the University of Oldenburg
In addition, the Career Service of the University of Oldenburg (website in German only) supports all students in the search of internships or start their careers. For this purpose, it brings together students and graduates with regional and national companies and institutions.
For students of the SEM-Master, above all the counseling services (career planning, career entry, application strategies) and placement offers (internships, theses, scholarships, job offers) are of interest. But as well further qualification offers (lectures and trainings to career start, aplications, communication etc.) can increase the chances on the job market.
Impact & Insights - Sustainability in the job
In order to prepare SEM Master's students for the challenges they will face in their future careers, Prof Dr Bernd Siebenhüner's chair offered the "Sustainability Practice Forum" until 2022. As part of this series of events, practitioners and experts reported on their own experiences as well as requirements and challenges in the professional field of sustainable development.
The series of events will start a new round in the summer semester 2025. Every month during the lecture period, an exchange with practitioners and experts from the field of sustainability will take place. Anyone can register for the event "Impact & Insights - Sustainability on the Job" at any time during the semester under event number 2.12.050.