Online Course - Business Sustainability Management (University of Cambridge)

The University of Cambridge 6 week Business Sustainability Management online short course gives students the skills they need to argue the business case for sustainability, develop integrated sustainability strategies, and implement them throughout your sphere of influence. Time requirements are 8-12 hours per week. The weekly modules offer a flexible learning experience. This course is intended for those who want to expand their knowledge of sustainability.

This course covers sustainability in a board range of organizations, industries and practices; including business, consulting, environmental, social and governance (ESG), and energy sectors. It is also for those who are interested in design and innovation. Whether you are seeking to broaden your skill set with your current role, shift career paths or start a business, this course will will help you to be a sustainability leader. 

The Course Convenor is Martin Roberts who is a programme director at the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, where he helps companies with a global reach to derive value from embedding innovative approaches to sustainability across their organisation and their supply chains. Roberts has extensive experience working with companies and NGOs on sustainability challenges, with particular expertise in the food, agricultural, utility, tourism and extractive sectors. He has lived in several African countries working with governments and the private sector to tackle the resource challenges of today and the future.

Course outline

Module 1

Sustainability challenges and opportunities

The global state, what needs to change, and how to bridge the sustainability gap through rewiring the economy.

Module 2

The business case and leadership for action

Why sustainability is good for business, and the importance of good leadership in achieving change.

Module 3

Regulatory environment and international policy

Policy instruments, international agreements, and the role of business and civil society in shaping a zero-carbon economy.

Module 4

Production and consumption

The value chain: Implementing business models and processes for sourcing, producing, and consuming sustainably.

Module 5

Design, technology and planning for sustainability

The role of innovative design, planning, and technology in facilitating sustainable business.

Module 6

Communication and marketing

How to effectively communicate sustainability strategies and goals to internal and external stakeholders.

Module 7

Collaboration and partnerships

How businesses can work together with corporate, government, and non-profit actors to bring about large-scale change in the sustainability space.

Module 8

Rewiring your business approach

Learn how to be an effective change agent, overcome barriers to change, obtain networking support, and create a personalised sustainability action plan.

You'll walk away with

1. The confidence to argue the business case for sustainability informed by a comprehensive understanding of the impact of current global economic, social, and environmental pressures.

2. An action plan for integrating sustainability across your organisation’s value chain to ensure long-term value creation.

3. The skills and knowledge to apply design, innovation and leadership competencies within your team or organisation.

4. A certificate of completion from the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, validating your expertise in sustainability management.

 
Click here to access the prospectus.