The ESG and Social Activism course, offered by the University of Pennsylvania through Coursera, is a comprehensive online program designed to explore the intersection of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors and social activism in corporate settings. Part of the ESG Investing: Financial Decisions in Flux Specialization, this four-week MOOC examines how social activism influences corporate ESG strategies and market performance. Accessible to global learners with basic business knowledge, it is ideal for professionals, students, and investors interested in sustainable business practices, requiring approximately 10 hours of study.

Core Content

The curriculum covers the impact of contemporary ESG ratings on corporate performance, focusing on balancing ESG issues with financial outcomes. It explores corporate authenticity, the influence of social activism as a market disruptor, and the role of politics in shaping ESG policies. Learners analyze corporate board structures, the importance of independent directors, and methods for selecting board members to support ESG integration. The course also addresses diversity, inclusion, and crisis management, using real-world case studies, such as CEO activism and NGO partnerships, to illustrate practical applications.

Key Skills

Participants will develop skills to evaluate the impact of social activism on corporate ESG strategies, assess corporate authenticity, and integrate ESG into governance frameworks. The course equips learners to analyze board structures, foster diversity and inclusion, and develop crisis management policies. Through practical assignments, participants gain experience in crafting ESG policies and navigating stakeholder dynamics, enabling them to drive sustainable and socially responsible business practices.

Target Learners

This course is tailored for business professionals, sustainability consultants, investors, and students interested in the role of social activism in ESG frameworks. It is particularly suited for those in corporate strategy, governance, or CSR roles, seeking to understand how activism and ESG ratings influence market dynamics. Its design, requiring basic business knowledge, makes it accessible to a global audience committed to aligning business practices with social and environmental responsibility.

Learning Format

Hosted on Coursera’s platform, the course spans approximately 4 weeks, requiring 2–3 hours of study per week. It features engaging video lectures, readings, interactive quizzes, and discussion forums, supported by expert instructors from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School. The self-paced format ensures flexibility, with case studies fostering practical application. Learners can audit for free or opt for a paid certificate experience (typically USD $49–$79), earning a shareable certificate of completion to enhance professional credentials.

Additional Benefits

The course delivers measurable learning outcomes, enabling participants to apply ESG and activism insights to real-world challenges, such as managing stakeholder expectations or enhancing corporate governance. Backed by Wharton’s expertise, it provides credible, industry-relevant content within a broader ESG Investing Specialization. Learners join a community of over 87 million Coursera users, gaining insights from global case studies, including examples of CEO activism. The certificate enhances career prospects in ESG consulting, corporate governance, and sustainable business, equipping graduates to lead impactful, socially responsible initiatives.

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