150 days: our experiences in the IT and sustainability Master’s program

Using technologies sustainably, developing entrepreneurial skills or improving one’s English – there are many reasons for the IT, Digitalization & Sustainability Master’s programme. Three students tell us how they experience the new degree programme and what they learn for the future.

Deutsche Version

Manuel Christen focuses on business 

I’m not the type to protest loudly for climate protection. But I am convinced that sustainability is an important topic. I chose this Master’s because it combines business skills and IT, and I’m improving English on the side. 

At the beginning of the Master’s programme, I couldn’t say why companies should be committed to sustainability – after all, they don’t earn any money with it for the time being. Today I know that this topic is enormously important for tomorrow’s customers. Companies must therefore credibly demonstrate how they operate sustainably. 

I like the practical relevance: we often work in groups on real business cases.

Manuel Christen

In our studies, we not only deal with aspects such as energy efficiency, but also how to build IT systems sustainably. We learn how they can still be functional and future-oriented in ten years. 

I like the practical relevance: we often work in groups on real business cases. For example, we have to develop and present new ideas for companies. Our lecturers give feedback as if they were CEOs of the company, which is very helpful. 

Roby Vishal Muthaiyah Benhur is enthusiastic about Data Science

I did my Bachelor’s degree in India. Studying in Switzerland is a completely new experience for me. In India, there is no degree programme that combines IT and sustainability. Moreover, the teaching there is very theoretical. 

We learn how we can use technology to influence or change the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Roby Vishal Muthaiyah Benhur

Here in Switzerland, I like that the courses are practical and we work on real projects. Each course is closely linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We learn how we can use technology to influence or change the SDGs, for example by using AI to reduce resource consumption. But technology is not the only solution: we all have to take responsibility, which is not always easy.

I value the international friendships I make here, and the lecturers are also very helpful and friendly. Data is incredibly important today and is the new oil. I am fascinated by this field and would like to specialise in Data Science later on. Studying here helps me to acquire these skills and knowledge.

Manuel Szecsenyi has AI in focus

Our Master’s programme got off to an unusual start: we spent the whole first week looking at the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In doing so, we realised that sustainability in a holistic sense does not simply mean «something to do with the environment». Everything is interconnected, and technology can play a key role in this. 

I study here with people from all over the world and get to know different perspectives and values. 

Manuel Szecsenyi

In our class, a strong community has already developed after a short time. I study here with people from all over the world and get to know different perspectives and values. 

At school, I am particularly fascinated by the topic of artificial intelligence. Here I can deepen my technical skills. AI will also play an important role in sustainable development in the future. 

I would like to do a double degree, i.e. receive two degrees – from the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts and my university in Vienna. That way, it might be easier for me to find a job in Switzerland later on. 

If I eventually become my own boss, I will keep the sustainability goals in mind and try to incorporate them into my work. 

More voices from the Master’s programme IT, Digitalization & Sustainability in the video:

Published: 7 February 2023
By Yasmin Billeter