Foundations of Sustainability and ESG, Offered by the University of Oxford via Coursera, The University of Oxford’s Foundations of Sustainability and ESG is an online certification program designed to introduce learners to the fundamentals of sustainability and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks. Positioned as a beginner-level training program, the course examines how ESG frameworks interact with business strategy, why they matter today, and how organisations are using ESG metrics to respond to societal and environmental challenges. It is particularly relevant for learners seeking to understand how sustainability principles can be embedded into decision-making and corporate strategy, while benefiting from Oxford’s long-standing academic excellence.

Core Content

The course explores the foundations of sustainability and ESG, including the core dimensions of each framework and their significance for businesses and investors. Learners study how organisations integrate ESG considerations into strategies and reporting, while also examining the challenges faced in aligning growth with sustainability. Modules cover topics such as ESG performance measurement, business ethics, stakeholder analysis, and sustainability reporting, ensuring a holistic understanding of the subject.

Key Skills

Participants develop introductory competencies in ESG analysis, sustainability reporting, governance practices, stakeholder engagement, and performance measurement. Learners also gain an understanding of how business ethics and sustainable development considerations influence investments, corporate behaviour, and accountability.

Target Learners

The course is designed for beginners, including professionals looking to expand into sustainability or ESG-focused roles, students pursuing business or environmental studies, and individuals interested in building foundational knowledge in sustainable finance and governance. It is well suited for those aspiring to careers in sustainability management, ESG analysis, or corporate responsibility.

Learning Format

Delivered fully online through Coursera, the program is structured into four modules and can be completed in approximately two weeks at a pace of ten hours per week. With a flexible schedule, learners can study at their own pace and balance professional commitments. The course features video lectures, real-world case studies, interactive assessments, and peer discussions, combining theoretical insights with practical applications.

Additional Benefits

Learners who complete the program are awarded a shareable Coursera certificate endorsed by the University of Oxford, enhancing their employability in sustainability, ESG, and corporate governance fields. The course is free to audit, with the option to pay for certification. A rating of 4.8/5 from learners underscores the program’s quality and relevance. With Oxford’s global reputation and Coursera’s interactive platform, participants gain access to a worldwide learning community and valuable resources that support ongoing professional development.

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