Discovering the Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be) University
A Partnership Built on Trust — For Over 17 Years
The Joint International Master of Environmental Sustainability (JIMES) is not just a new idea — it’s the next step in a strong and trusted partnership between the University of Cologne and Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be) University in Pune, India, in particular with the Institute of Environment Education and Research (BVIEER).
For over 17 years, students and researchers from both universities have worked together on fieldwork, joint teaching, summer schools, and exciting research projects — from megacity health challenges to biodiversity conservation in India’s national parks. Dozens of students have completed joint field research, internships, and even master’s theses under shared supervision.
This long history has created more than just academic cooperation. It has built a community — grounded in mutual respect, shared curiosity, and a deep commitment to making sustainability real in diverse global contexts.
JIMES was designed on the foundation of this trusted collaboration. It brings together everything we’ve learned: how to teach across continents, how to support international students, and how to turn intercultural exchange into a meaningful academic and personal experience.
So when you join JIMES, you’re not just enrolling in a study program — you’re joining a community that’s been growing for years, with real friendships, real projects, and real impact.
Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be) University (BVDU)
Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be) University, established in 1964 by the visionary Dr. Patangrao Kadam, is one of India’s premier educational institutions. Recognized as a "Deemed-to-be University" by the UGC in 1996, it has since grown into a multidisciplinary university with a strong emphasis on innovation, research, and global education standards.
With 29 constituent institutions, including medical, engineering, management, law, and arts colleges, Bharati Vidyapeeth offers a diverse range of programs that attract students from across India and the world.
Find more about Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University)
Institute of Environment Education and Research (BVIEER)
The Institute of Environment Education and Research at the Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University (BVIEER) is India's premier educational and research institution in the fields of Environmental Science, Conservation Science and Geoinformatics. Its comprehensive mandate encompassing teaching, research and extension establishes BVIEER as a top-ranking institution in these disciplines.
The Institute has pioneered groundbreaking projects and programs that have directly influenced national environment and conservation policies, geospatial strategies, and the implementation of environmental education across academic institutions.
Located in Pune's educational hub, BVIEER offers internationally benchmarked programs including Doctoral and Master's degrees in Environmental Science, Geoinformatics, and Wildlife Conservation Action. These programs embody Bharati Vidyapeeth's vision of 'social transformation through dynamic education'.
BVIEER maintains strategic collaborations with leading international universities and organizations, enhancing its academic offerings through:
- Innovative teaching methodologies combining classroom instruction with field work
- Semester exchange programs and international internships
- Instruction by renowned faculty experts
These initiatives ensure graduates are globally competitive professionals in their respective fields.
Key highlights:
- Recognized as one of India's best institutions for Environmental Science and related disciplines
- Curriculum emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical application
- Strong focus on developing industry-ready professionals through experiential learning
