[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As businesses and organizations focus on reducing their ecological footprint, the demand for green leaders continues to grow.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An MBA in sustainability prepares business students to help organizations react, adapt, and respond to the world’s rapidly growing concerns about sustainability. Most organizations recognize sustainability as [hen-ui-link href=”https://ssir.org/articles/entry/the_next_phase_of_business_sustainability/”]integral to their success[/hen-ui-link], and professionals who can develop these initiatives enjoy successful careers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While many organizations have felt the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ibm.com/thought-leadership/institute-business-value/report/covid-19-future-business/”]effects of COVID-19[/hen-ui-link] and related economic downturns, the subsequent digital transformation has also improved sustainability for some businesses. Increased interest in personal health and safety now join the traditional environmental and social concerns of sustainability, pushing the field to greater heights.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students earning an [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/salary-guide/mba-salary/”]MBA[/hen-ui-link] in sustainability complete traditional business courses and specialized sustainability training, which expands their job prospects. Career opportunities for business management professionals, like sustainability experts, appear strong; the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/home.htm/”]Bureau of Labor Statistics[/hen-ui-link] (BLS) projects a faster-than-average 5% growth rate from 2019-2029.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This guide explores sustainability careers in greater detail and ranks the best programs in this field.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Online MBA in Sustainability[/hen-ui-heading]
#1 Best MBA in Sustainability

Oklahoma State University-Main Campus

  • Location-markerStillwater, OK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,366
  • Out-of-state$20,877
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$5,531
  • Out-of-state$21,034
  • Retention Rate83%
  • Acceptance Rate70%
  • Students Enrolled24,079
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment42%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Best MBA in Sustainability

Concordia University Wisconsin

  • Location-markerMequon, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$30,060
  • Out-of-state$30,060
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,052
  • Out-of-state$11,052
  • Retention Rate81%
  • Acceptance Rate64%
  • Students Enrolled5,777
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment39%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Best MBA in Sustainability

Franklin Pierce University

  • Location-markerRindge, NH
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$35,900
  • Out-of-state$35,900
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$16,000
  • Out-of-state$16,000
  • Retention Rate68%
  • Acceptance Rate66%
  • Students Enrolled2,114
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment28%
  • AccreditationYes
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[hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Best Online Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″ class=”not-prose”]MBA in Sustainability[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]2022[/hen-ui-text]
The Best Schools [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Online MBA in Sustainability Programs Ranking Guidelines[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We selected the following programs based on their quality, curricula, faculty, rankings, awards, and reputation — including the school’s reputation for effectively providing online degrees.[/hen-ui-text]
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[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”overview”]What Is an Online MBA in Sustainability?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-mba/”]online MBA[/hen-ui-link] in sustainability teaches students to align organizational strategies with long-term sustainability goals. The training examines how businesses can reduce their environmental impacts and incorporate social responsibilities while remaining fiscally sound. These programs are designed for problem-solvers, forward thinkers, and socially conscious business professionals.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In addition to advanced leadership and management courses, an MBA in sustainability delivers focused training in sustainable finance, clean energy, and social innovation. Most MBAs feature 30-45 credits, though some may require up to 70 credits. Learners can usually complete the degrees in less than two years, though accelerated full-time programs [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-dual-masters/”]and dual degrees[/hen-ui-link] can significantly vary in timeline.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”choosing”]Choosing an Online Green MBA[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When selecting an [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-mba/”]online MBA[/hen-ui-link] in sustainability, students should consider their unique goals and needs. In addition to available concentrations, they should also consider factors like location, program length, and cost. Online learning can make attending distance programs easier, and out-of-state programs may offer in-state tuition rates for online enrollees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Learners should closely examine program details, checking course listings and internship options. Since sustainability covers such a vast space, prospective students should identify desired specializations, such as climate change, clean energy, and sustainable investing. Some candidates may choose programs based on prestige, although highly regarded programs often have higher costs and stiffer competition.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”accreditation”]Accreditation for Online MBA in Sustainability Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]All students should check the [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/accreditation/”]accreditation status[/hen-ui-link] of their prospective schools and programs. Accreditation demonstrates to students, employers, and financial aid organizations that the institution meets rigorous educational standards.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]For an [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-mba/”]online MBA[/hen-ui-link] in sustainability, programmatic accreditation may come from one of three major agencies: the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aacsb.edu/”]Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of BusinessAccreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, and the [/hen-ui-link][hen-ui-link href=”https://iacbe.org/”]International Accreditation Council for Business Education[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”expect”]What Can I Expect in Pursuing an MBA in Sustainability Online?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In many of the [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-mba/”]best online MBA programs[/hen-ui-link], training covers several essential areas, such as finance, marketing, and economics. The sustainability concentration then delves into niche topics, including sustainability marketing, initiative implementation, and sustainable innovation. The courses below are popular in most curricula in the field.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”courses”]Common Courses in MBA Online Programs[/hen-ui-heading]
  • Sustainable Systems: This course examines the relationship between financial gain and ecological practices, preparing students to enter careers in consulting and management. Topics include strategies for reducing carbon emissions, developing community partnerships, and instigating corporate changes that promote sustainability.
  • Economics of Sustainability: Students enrolled in this course learn about principles of sustainability and environmental issues in the business world. This class explores the impacts of human and financial capital on sustainability to prepare students for financial advisory roles. Students also explore issues of consumerism, technological advances, and the ethical use of natural resources.
  • Sustainability and Legal Issues: This course provides an overview of the legal and ethical issues impacting sustainable economics, equipping students for management positions in marketing and consulting. Enrollees explore climate change policies, legal protection of the environment, and local and international laws affecting business strategies.
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”joint-dual”]MBA Joint / Dual Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These combination degrees challenge students to apply advanced business knowledge to other disciplines. The training may require more time and effort than a standard MBA, but a dual MBA degree gives graduates specialized credentials that can set them apart from competitors.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning a sustainability MBA dual degree can qualify graduates for many professions, depending on the subject of the second degree. For example, a public administration master’s dual degree can lead to careers as [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/political-scientists.htm/”]political scientists[/hen-ui-link], while a [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/economists.htm/”]master’s in economics[/hen-ui-link] can lead to a career as an economist.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Other common programs available for MBA joint or dual programs include master of environmental management and master of forestry degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”certification”]Certification[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After completing an MBA in sustainability, graduates can bolster their resumes with professional credentials. Though not usually required for employment in this field, industry certifications can help distinguish students by demonstrating their understanding of sustainable business practices.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]ISSP Certified Sustainability Associate or Professional[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.sustainabilityprofessionals.org/issp-credentials/”]International Society of Sustainability Professionals[/hen-ui-link] offers two certifications: the sustainability excellence associate credential for new professionals in the field and the sustainability excellence professional for more experienced personnel and sustainable organization stakeholders.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Individuals must renew these credentials every two years. To qualify, candidates must complete a set number of continuing education credits.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Sustainability Management Certified Associate or Professional[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”https://sustainabilityma.org/certification/”]Sustainability Management Association[/hen-ui-link] offers three types of certifications for students and professionals looking to gain a competitive advantage in the sustainability field. The association offers a student associate certification for degree-seekers, an associate certification for new graduates, and a professional certification for personnel with at least two years of relevant experience.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Once certified, each professional must maintain the credential by completing 15 hours of continuing education within the three-year certification window.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”career-info”]Green Careers[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An MBA in sustainability establishes graduates as experts in providing sustainable business solutions. The training can lead to many of the traditional [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/home.htm/”]management occupations[/hen-ui-link], plus some highly specialized and niche opportunities.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While the following sections highlight some of the more popular and direct career pathways, the list is by no means exhaustive. Some of the careers listed may require additional training or certifications.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”secondary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Sustainability Specialists”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These specialists help organizations meet their sustainability goals and requirements by developing, implementing, and maintaining green programs and practices. These professionals ensure that organizations meet industry and legal standards, evaluate current sustainability indicators, and create new policies to keep organizations on track.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Sustainability specialists may work for one organization or they may work independently as advisors or consultants. For employment, these professionals need an in-depth understanding of sustainability laws and requirements, along with knowledge of sustainable processes and technologies. Candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree at minimum, along with critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”]
[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4 text-tertiary”]Median Annual Salary[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/13-1199.05/”] $73,570[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text]
[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4 text-tertiary”]Projected Growth Rate[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/13-1199.05/”] 5-7%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text]
[/hen-ui-grid] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Natural Sciences Managers”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Natural sciences managers oversee teams of scientists and research professionals. They design and direct research activities, maintain labs and facilities, and evaluate and supervise team members and their work. These professionals may develop projects for organizations in manufacturing, product development, or academic research.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/natural-sciences-managers.htm/”]Natural sciences managers[/hen-ui-link] typically work in research and development facilities, though many also work in manufacturing or with the government. Education requirements vary by field and employer, but often include graduate degrees in management or a science discipline. Along with natural science knowledge and expertise, these managers need communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”]
[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4 text-tertiary”]Median Annual Salary[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/11-9121.00/”] $129,100[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text]
[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4 text-tertiary”]Projected Growth Rate[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/11-9121.00/”] 5-7%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text]
[/hen-ui-grid] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Chief Sustainability Officer”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Chief sustainability officers develop and implement sustainability policies within organizations. They set goals and establish measurements to ensure the organization meets them while still staying within operational means and budgets. These professionals may oversee teams or entire departments, and they often control communication on sustainability matters.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Chief sustainability officers often work with large organizations in areas like manufacturing and professional services, but they may also work in healthcare or for the government. Candidates typically need at least a bachelor’s degree, though many have master’s degrees. They also need sustainability expertise, along with skills in communication, analytics, and leadership.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”]
[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4 text-tertiary”]Median Annual Salary[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/11-1011.03/”] $184,460[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text]
[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4 text-tertiary”]Projected Growth Rate[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/11-1011.03/”] -1%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text]
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[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”professional-organizations”]Sustainability in Business Professional Organizations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Membership with a professional organization can provide crucial support and guidance. Through a professional organization, MBA students, recent graduates, and experienced professionals can all gain access to valuable resources, programs, and events that can help them advance their careers.[/hen-ui-text]
[hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://usgreenchamber.com/” target=”_blank”]US Green Chamber of Commerce[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] The U.S. Green Chamber of Commerce provides a unified voice for small businesses across the country. Business owners and entrepreneur members join a strong network where they can access sustainability resources, information, and technological solutions.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bsr.org/en/about” target=”_blank”]Business for Social Responsibility[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] BSR works with organizations around the world to help meet their sustainability goals. Member organizations enjoy access to sustainability consulting, global network collaboration, and research on emerging sustainability technologies and theories.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.sustainabilityprofessionals.org/issp-mission” target=”_blank”]International Society of Sustainability Professionals[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] ISSP advances sustainability within organizations and public policy. Members can access the professional network for collaboration, information, and insight. ISSP also offers training and professional development programs, along with certifications.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://sustainabilityma.org/” target=”_blank”]Sustainability Management Association[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] SMA strives to improve the world’s sustainability actions and measures by standardizing specialized training and practices. The association offers access to networking opportunities, professional support, training programs, and certifications.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Can You Do With an MBA in Sustainability?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An MBA in sustainability can lead to many business and management careers, both within large companies and in consultant roles. The training equips learners to guide organizations as they implement sustainability initiatives and strategies.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is a STEM MBA Worth It?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A STEM MBA prepares professionals to operate and lead companies working in technology-forward spaces. These degrees provide enormous value for graduates, allowing them to join the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm/”]fast-growing technology landscape[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Is a Career in Sustainability?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Professionals with careers in sustainability typically focus on how people and organizations can thrive while addressing environmental and social needs. They may help organizations seek sustainable solutions to business problems and develop sound environmental policies.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Learn more, do more.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h5″]More topic-relevant resources to expand your knowledge.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”slider” ids=”1465,1217,1420,1271,323″][/hen-ui-article-row] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]