M.Sc in Sanitation

Meru University of Science and Technology – MUST

The Master of Science in Sanitation is a specialized graduate programme designed to address the critical shortage of professionals capable of managing complex sanitation challenges across different levels—from the household to global scale. The programme aims to produce knowledgeable, skilled, and innovative experts equipped to develop, implement, and sustain inclusive sanitation solutions in diverse socio-economic, institutional, and environmental contexts. Rooted in both theoretical foundations and hands-on practice, the programme prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to the global sanitation agenda, with a focus on achieving health, dignity, and environmental sustainability for all.

Beyond knowledge acquisition, the programme emphasizes the application of theory to practice. Graduates will be able to carry out comprehensive assessments of sanitation conditions at household, city, and regional levels; design and implement inclusive, technically sound, and financially viable sanitation interventions; and advise on governance reforms and management strategies. They will also be trained to conduct independent or team-based research—from problem formulation and methodology selection to data analysis and the communication of results.

Through this programme, students will cultivate strong judgment and critical reasoning skills. They will learn to evaluate alternative approaches to sanitation under varying socio-economic, cultural, and policy contexts, integrate ethical considerations into their practice, and generate well-founded, context-sensitive solutions. Effective communication is also a key component of the programme, as graduates will be expected to present their findings clearly and persuasively to stakeholders of diverse backgrounds, using both traditional and digital communication platforms.

Lastly, the MSc in Sanitation promotes continuous learning and leadership development. Graduates will be well-equipped to work in interdisciplinary teams, manage sanitation projects and programmes, and pursue lifelong learning through self-study and reflective practice. Whether working in government, NGOs, academia, private sector, or international organizations, graduates of this programme will emerge as competent professionals and change-makers in the global sanitation landscape.

Curriculum

• ECS 7100 Public Health and sanitation
• ECS 7101 Project management and Behavior Change
• ECS 7102 Research Methods I
• ECS 7103 Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in Emergencies
• ECS 7150 Sanitation Technologies
• ECS 7151 Sanitation finance and governance
• ECS 7152 Research Methods II
• ECS 7153 Leadership development for city wide inclusive sanitation
• ECS 7200 Research thesis and Seminars
• ECS 7250 Research thesis and Seminars