Circular Economy: An Interdisciplinary Approach

The Circular Economy: An Interdisciplinary Approach course, offered by Wageningen University & Research through edX, is an advanced online program designed to equip learners with the knowledge and tools to contribute to a more sustainable society by transitioning from linear to circular economic models. This course emphasizes interdisciplinary thinking, combining socio-technical, managerial, and environmental perspectives to address challenges in creating circular systems, including sustainable supply chains and resource reuse. As part of two MicroMasters programs—Economics and Policies for a Circular Bio-Economy and Business and Operations for a Circular Bio-Economy—it encourages cradle-to-cradle design, systems innovation, and abundance-based approaches, making it suitable for those with a bachelor's degree in social sciences or equivalent experience, though no formal prerequisites are required for the MOOC itself.

Core Content

The curriculum is divided into six modules that guide learners through the principles and applications of circular economy concepts. It begins with an introduction to the circular economy, defining its deviation from linear systems and its relation to other sustainability paradigms, highlighting the need for a transition to abundance-focused models. Subsequent modules cover circular systems engineering, exploring systems thinking and engineering solutions for closing cycles, and transition management, discussing how circular changes occur in businesses and society, including essential skills for driving industry transformations. The course then introduces life cycle assessment (LCA) to quantify environmental impacts of circular products, agent-based modeling (ABM) for simulating circular scenarios without requiring coding skills, and culminates in a case study where learners apply all concepts to a practical example.

Key Skills

Participants develop interdisciplinary skills in analyzing complex systems for circularity, applying systems thinking to transition challenges, and using tools like LCA for environmental impact assessment and ABM for modeling socio-technical scenarios. The course builds competencies in evaluating stakeholder incentives, designing sustainable supply chains, and innovating within circular frameworks, enabling learners to assess and implement circular alternatives that balance abundance with environmental benefits.

Target Learners

This program targets professionals, students, and practitioners in business, economics, environmental management, and related fields who aim to tackle sustainability challenges through circular economy strategies. It is particularly suited for those interested in bio-economy operations, policy development, or innovation in resource management, with a recommended background in social sciences for optimal engagement in the full MicroMasters tracks.

Learning Format

Delivered fully online via edX, the course is self-paced, allowing flexible progression through video lectures, readings, interactive exercises, and assessments. It includes optional advanced modeling components and is structured for global accessibility, though restricted in certain regions due to sanctions. Learners can audit for free or upgrade for a verified certificate, with content emphasizing practical application through case studies and emerging technologies.

Additional Benefits

Completing the course provides a pathway to MicroMasters credentials, enhancing career prospects in circular economy roles by demonstrating expertise in sustainable innovation and systems analysis. Participants gain access to Wageningen's expert network and resources, fostering ongoing learning in bio-economy transitions and preparing them to influence real-world policy and business shifts toward circularity.

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