Miriam was drawn to the programme for its intersection of economics, politics, and social justice. “The master’s helped me develop a deeper understanding of how inequality arises and how different forces—like land use, climate change, and labour rights—interact. That analytical foundation allows me to support companies in assessing and improving the social impact of their operations.”

Her coursework in Development Economics gave her tools she still uses today. “Courses like ‘Globalization, Growth and Development’ and the research projects sharpened both my quantitative and qualitative thinking. Both the courses, and the experienced lecturers in the Development track, encouraged me to ask critical questions: how do we incentivise organisations to change, how can regulation be used to drive social progress, and are politicians setting effective interventions for sustainable advances?”

Miriam emphasizes the importance of having an economics background in her interdisciplinary team. “I’m one of few with an economics degree, and that helps when we’re analysing client data or translating sustainability goals into measurable metrics. I collaborate with biologists, human rights lawyers, and environmental scientists. Their expertise and perspective constantly broaden my understanding of what sustainability means in practice. At the end of the day, all of us bring an important piece of the puzzle to the table and Development Economics is a fitting niche that I can contribute with while being complemented by the impressive knowledge of differently trained colleagues. It’s a very stimulating atmosphere in which you’re encouraged to continue educating yourself – this year I still get to attend a master’s course for professionals at the University of Bergen on Human Rights in Business, which will enable me to bring more nuanced knowledge back to my work with clients on what socially just strategies should really entail.”

Her work is closely tied to current developments in EU policies, such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive and the Supply Chain Act. “The field is evolving fast. Companies are under increasing pressure to address biodiversity, fair labour, and community impacts. Our role is to help them respond meaningfully—and hold them accountable.”

For Miriam, the master’s in Development Economics was key in aligning her academic interests with her professional goals. “The programme connected the dots between economics and sustainability. It gave me the critical perspective and motivation I needed to pursue a career where I can contribute to more equitable global systems.”