What UN-affiliated programs and opportunities are immediately available to MSc sustainability students studying in the UK?

Two platforms offer actionable opportunities without requiring you to wait or qualify through a competitive process. Universitas 21 is a global university network with sustainable micro-internships, a Sustainable Policy Leadership course, and community practice opportunities available to students even from non-member universities, you can apply directly through their website. The United Nations Institute for Training and Research, UNITAR, runs online and in-person courses ranging from one week to six months. Some are free; others charge fees but offer scholarships.

• Completing a UNITAR course also gives you access to events where working UN professionals speak, which are networking opportunities that allow you to discuss your research or startup work with people currently in UN roles.
• For specific events in 2026: the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development is scheduled for July, with the theme of equitable and innovative actions for the 2030 Agenda, online participation registration is available.
• The UN Water Conference is scheduled for December.
• Both can be attended as a current student without needing institutional affiliation.