Master in Circular Economy Management
"We have a responsibility to educate, train, and prepare students, the managers of the future, so they can help organizations manage the transition from a linear economy towards sustainability and a circular economy. A central theme is the balance between economic, technological, social, and ecological sustainability."
Prof. Dr. Christian Vögtlin, Head of Program
The MSc in Circular Economy Management is a new degree program that supports our university's key commitment to sustainability, specifically to impart and develop knowledge and skills in that area and support individuals and organizations in their efforts to make a valuable contribution to society. This Master’s program has been designed and developed jointly by three schools of the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) – Life Sciences and Facility Management, Engineering, and Management and Law. It is a truly interdisciplinary program that utilizes and combines expertise from several different disciplines.
At a Glance
Title: Master of Science (MSc) ZHAW in Circular Economy Management
Start of New Program: Mid-September
Workload: 90 ECTS credits (equivalent to approx. 2,700 hours of study)
Duration: 3 semesters (full-time)
Registration deadline: 30 May 2025 - apply now
Location: Winterthur, Waedenswil and Zurich (Canton of Zurich, Switzerland)
Tuition Fee: CHF 720.- per semester + additional study-related expenses
Admission Requirements: Admission Procedure
Language of instruction: English
Content and Program Structure
The MSc in Circular Economy Management is a full-time course of study. It consists of a preliminary week and three semesters of intensive study. The program combines all dimensions of the circular economy – technical, environmental, social, and economic - and students acquire practical and theoretical knowledge in all disciplines. Students develop a broader understanding and implementation skills for the circular economy through an interdisciplinary, hands-on approach. The program’s compulsory modules are grouped into themes and provide a foundation, while elective clusters allow students to prepare for specific career paths and professional roles. Case studies and, ultimately, the Master’s thesis provide students with practical credentials. In addition, there is a strong emphasis on developing critical thinking, creativity, communication, teamwork, self-management, and self-reflection.
Designed for Different Career Paths
This Master’s program will allow you to become highly qualified and enable you to focus on topics that meet your personal and professional goals. You can benefit from an immediate, practically orientated knowledge transfer that you will apply to real life business projects.
Your Career Prospects
This MSc degree will qualify you for jobs in the following areas and sectors:
Job Roles
- Consultant (in-company or external)
- Corporate Social Responsibility Manager / Coordinator
- Product Manager (design, development, innovation)
- Production and Operations Manager
- Project Manager
- Supply chain management (incl. distribution and logistics)
- Self-employed (entrepreneur, founding start-up)
- Management role (Engineering / Technology / Circular Economy)
- Communications Manager
- Quality Manager
Sectors
- Industry and manufacturing
- Service sector
- Consultancy
- Public sector
- Not-for-Profit Organisation
Testimonials
“The circular economy is a fundamental concept that helps us reduce our consumption of resources. The goal is to no longer consider products as waste at the end of their use, but as new raw products. In order to successfully implement the circular economy, companies depend on team-oriented employees who can think in a holistic way.”
Filloreta Gecaj, KYBURZ Switzerland AG, Assistant to the CEO and Sustainability Coordinator
"The skills needed to manage projects, spot new business opportunities, and apply critical thinking are all very important. Graduates must be both curious and creative, and they also need to have empathy for others. This is a highly networked function that has an impact on a company's entire organization."
Andreas Mueller, CEO,
Georg Fischer AG
"The circular economy is a vital concept that is here to stay. Many new startups are highly dynamic and ideologically motivated, making them behave differently than conventional corporations and SMEs."
Simon Zysset, Responsible for Education Partnerships,
WWF Switzerland
Admission
Applications undergo an admission procedure. Admission is decided by the head of the program. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree (at least 180 ECTS) in business studies, economics, engineering, or natural science.
- Swiss degrees: The final grade must be at least 4.5 (of 6).
- English Level B2+ (e.g. 173 points on Cambridge Scale, TOEFL 83 points).
- A passing grade in the entrance exam for this degree program.
If needed, please feel free to contact the Head of Program without obligation to confirm whether you meet the admission requirements outlined above.
Brochure
Information and Enrollment
MSc Information Events
Find out more about our practice-oriented Master's degree programs at the information events and ask us your questions.
Admission Check
Are you interested in a Master's degree program and would like to know whether you meet the requirements? Or do you have questions about the course?
Enrollment Master's Degree Programs
With a Master's degree, you are investing in your future. You will expand your professional and personal skills and increase your career opportunities.
MSc Information Events
Admission Check
Enrollment Master's Degree Programs
Find out more about our practice-oriented Master's degree programs at the information events and ask us your questions.
Are you interested in a Master's degree program and would like to know whether you meet the requirements? Or do you have questions about the course?
With a Master's degree, you are investing in your future. You will expand your professional and personal skills and increase your career opportunities.