Developing Transferable Sustainability and Entrepreneurship Competencies through Vertically Integrated Projects at the University of Strathclyde

This chapter examines the integration of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and entrepreneurship competencies within the Vertically Integrated Projects for Sustainable Development (VIP4SD) programme at the University of Strathclyde, in Glasgow, UK. Designed as a scalable model, VIP4SD embeds sustainability, interdisciplinary collaboration, and transferable competencies across undergraduate curricula by aligning research- (or inquiry)-based learning with SDG challenge areas to effectively operationalise Research-Based Education for Sustainable Development (RBESD). The chapter traces the evolution of VIP4SD, its theoretical underpinnings, and its implementation across faculties. Recognising VIP4SD’s alignment with institutional strategy and sector-wide momentum for ESD, the chapter offers practical guidance for its adaptation in different contexts. With a practitioner focus, it details mechanisms for competency development through scaffolded workshops and authentic assessment, enabling students to recognise, reflect on, and articulate their growth throughout their project journeys. This approach enhances students’ self-awareness, reflective capacity, and employability. VIP4SD is presented not only as a curricular innovation, but as a strategic vehicle for embedding competency-based, sustainability-driven education across higher education.