Coursework for Change
The University of Manchester is ranked first in the world for our contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings (2026). The University’s commitment to the UN SDGs is shown in the work and dedication of our students.
Across the University, many of our students assignments tackle the 21st century challenges that are aligned with UN SDGs. Each year hundreds of hours of thought and passion from our students go into these assignments.
Over the past couple of months, through our Coursework for Change campaign, we have invited students to share examples of their work to recognise the thought, time and dedication behind these projects, and to highlight the contribution of student research to real-world issues.
The campaign also responds to what students have described as the ‘Turnitin abyss’, where work is submitted, assessed and then often not seen again. By showcasing these projects, we hope to bring student work to wider audiences and encourage conversation around the Sustainable Development Goals.
Students have explored a wide range of topics, from sustainable health devices and social inequality to climate intervention, fast fashion and different approaches to learning from Indigenous communities. Together, these projects show how ideas developed through coursework can connect with wider social, environmental and economic challenges.
You can watch students talk through their projects below: