Sustainability courses can help you learn environmental principles, resource management, climate impacts, and sustainable practices used across industries. You can build skills in energy systems, waste reduction, policy analysis, and evaluating environmental data. Many courses introduce tools for carbon tracking, life-cycle assessment, and measuring the effectiveness of sustainability strategies.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Skills you'll gain: Environmental Policy, Sustainable Development, Environment, Water Resources, Demography, Energy and Utilities, Environmental Science, Environmental Resource Management, Sustainability Standards, Sustainable Engineering, Water Resource Management, Social Sciences, Climate Change Adaptation, Economics
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

IMD - International Institute for Management Development
Skills you'll gain: Environmental Social And Corporate Governance (ESG), Corporate Sustainability, Sustainable Business, Sustainable Development, Business Ethics, Compliance Management, Sustainability Reporting, Environmental Management Systems, Stakeholder Management, Governance, Stakeholder Engagement, Leadership, Social Impact, Stakeholder Communications, Risk Management, Business Strategy, Organizational Change
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Saïd Business School, University of Oxford
Skills you'll gain: Environmental Social And Corporate Governance (ESG), Sustainability Reporting, Sustainable Business, Business Reporting, Corporate Sustainability, Sustainable Development, Stakeholder Engagement, Governance, Financial Reporting, Business Metrics, Enterprise Risk Management (ERM), Stakeholder Management, Environmental Issue, Business Ethics, Compliance Reporting, Stakeholder Analysis, Risk Management, Social Impact, Corporate Strategy, Finance
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Starweaver
Skills you'll gain: Responsible AI, Sustainable Development, Social Impact, Sustainable Business, Generative AI, Sustainable Systems, Corporate Sustainability, Sustainability Reporting, Diversity and Inclusion, Artificial Intelligence, Environmental Social And Corporate Governance (ESG), Business Ethics, Climate Change Mitigation, Environmental Issue, Supply Chain Planning, Problem Solving, Content Strategy
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Skills you'll gain: Environmental Social And Corporate Governance (ESG), Sustainability Standards, Sustainable Development, Sustainability Reporting, Sustainable Business, Corporate Sustainability, Consulting, Business Consulting, Environmental Management Systems, Product Lifecycle Management, Environment, Analysis
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Sustainable Development, Sustainable Engineering, Sustainable Technologies, Sustainable Business, Sustainability Standards, Organizational Leadership, Corporate Sustainability, Strategic Leadership, Business Leadership, Environment, Architectural Design, Building Design, Climate Change Mitigation, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Energy and Utilities, Environmental Policy, Economics
Build toward a degree
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Copenhagen
Skills you'll gain: Sustainable Development, Environmental Science, Corporate Sustainability, Social Impact, Environmental Resource Management, Environmental Policy, Research, Climate Change Mitigation, Policy Analysis, Economics, Governance
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Skills you'll gain: Environmental Social And Corporate Governance (ESG), Sustainability Reporting, Corporate Sustainability, Sustainable Business, Business Reporting, Data Storytelling, Compliance Reporting, Data Visualization, Performance Reporting, Sustainability Standards, Environmental Regulations, Stakeholder Communications, Strategic Communication, Business Ethics, Regulatory Requirements, Stakeholder Engagement, Risk Management, Finance, Investments
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Multiple educators
Skills you'll gain: Sustainable Business, Sustainability Reporting, Sustainable Design, Corporate Sustainability, Sustainable Technologies, Environmental Social And Corporate Governance (ESG), Sustainable Engineering, Sustainable Development, Sustainable Systems, Energy and Utilities, Business Reporting, Annual Reports, Sustainability Standards, Organizational Leadership, Strategic Leadership, Business Leadership, Product Engineering, Leadership, Environment, Environmental Management Systems
Build toward a degree
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of London
Skills you'll gain: Sustainable Business, Corporate Sustainability, Environmental Social And Corporate Governance (ESG), Reverse Logistics, Sustainable Development, Business Ethics, Sustainability Reporting, Environmental Issue, Waste Minimization, Environmental Regulations, Logistics Management, Business Strategy, Climate Change Mitigation
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Arizona State University
Skills you'll gain: Program Implementation, Plan Execution, Sustainable Development, Business Planning, Data Analysis, Sustainability Reporting, Spreadsheet Software, Contract Management, Waste Minimization, Marketing and Public Relations, Analysis, Sustainability Standards, Policy Development, Annual Reports, Interactive Learning, Sustainable Business, Vendor Contracts, Goal Setting, Business Writing, Project Management
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Saïd Business School, University of Oxford
Skills you'll gain: Environmental Social And Corporate Governance (ESG), Corporate Sustainability, Stakeholder Engagement, Sustainable Business, Governance, Business Metrics, Sustainable Development, Sustainability Reporting, Business Reporting, Stakeholder Management, Environmental Issue, Stakeholder Analysis, Business Ethics, Corporate Strategy, Investment Management, Community Development, Investments, Risk Management, Diversity and Inclusion, Climate Change Mitigation
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Sustainability refers to the ability to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It encompasses environmental, social, and economic dimensions, aiming for a balanced approach that fosters long-term health for our planet and its inhabitants. Understanding sustainability is crucial as it addresses pressing global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and social inequality. By adopting sustainable practices, individuals and organizations can contribute to a healthier environment, promote social equity, and ensure economic viability.‎
A variety of jobs exist in the sustainability sector, reflecting its growing importance across industries. Positions range from sustainability analysts and environmental consultants to roles in corporate social responsibility and sustainable supply chain management. Additionally, opportunities in renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable agriculture are expanding. As organizations increasingly prioritize sustainability, professionals equipped with relevant skills and knowledge will find themselves in high demand, making this a promising career path.‎
To pursue a career in sustainability, several key skills are essential. These include analytical skills for assessing environmental impacts, project management abilities for implementing sustainable initiatives, and communication skills to advocate for sustainability practices effectively. Knowledge of regulations and standards related to environmental protection is also important. Additionally, familiarity with sustainability metrics and reporting can enhance your effectiveness in this field. Continuous learning and adaptability are crucial as sustainability practices evolve.‎
There are numerous online courses available that cater to various aspects of sustainability. Some notable options include the Applied Sustainability for Technical Managers Specialization and the Sustainable Business Strategy for Future Leaders Specialization. These courses provide foundational knowledge and practical skills, making them excellent choices for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of sustainability.‎
Yes. You can start learning sustainability on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in sustainability, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎
Learning sustainability can be approached through various methods. Start by exploring online courses that cover fundamental concepts and practical applications. Engage with sustainability-focused communities and forums to exchange ideas and experiences. Additionally, consider volunteering for environmental organizations or participating in local sustainability initiatives to gain hands-on experience. Reading books and articles on sustainability topics can also broaden your understanding and inspire action.‎
Sustainability courses typically cover a range of topics, including environmental science, sustainable development, corporate sustainability strategies, and the social implications of sustainability practices. You may also encounter subjects like renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable agriculture. Courses often emphasize real-world applications, case studies, and the latest trends in sustainability, providing a comprehensive understanding of the field.‎
For training and upskilling employees in sustainability, courses like the Sustainability Analyst Fundamentals Specialization and the Sustainability for Business Specialization are particularly beneficial. These programs equip participants with the necessary skills to implement sustainable practices within their organizations, fostering a culture of sustainability and enhancing overall business performance.‎