The best online MBA in Sustainability Management programs train the next generation of business leaders in sustainable green technologies, eco-friendly business practices, and environmental sustainability. Graduates of these educational programs benefit from the career versatility of the master’s degrees – and their choices range from management careers in general to sustainability careers in particular.

These online MBA programs are based on the Triple Bottom Line approach, combining economic, social, and environmental sustainability in business practices. Sustainability in these aspects means the possibility of business continuity into the foreseeable future while maintaining natural resources, preventing the loss of ecologies, and dealing with the social impact of business.

The credit hours required for completion to earn the online MBA in Sustainability range between 30 and 53 credits or more, depending on the academic calendar. These online MBA with a concentration in sustainability programs usually allow their students to choose between full-time and part-time enrollment. Still, there are online programs with a full-time, cohort-based model.

The time-to-completion in these online programs varies, too, but it’s common for MBA programs to have a two-year time-to-degree for full-time students. Part-time students can take 3-5 years to earn the degree. Check out accelerated online MBA programs for a one-year time-to-degree.

Since these are online MBA programs, most of the coursework is in business principles and practices. Topics covered include financial accounting, financial management, economic and financial analysis, corporate finance, and more. Students benefit from a solid business education since it’s the foundation for their professional success in their management, sustainability, and environmental engineering careers.

These sustainability programs feature concentration courses that cover environmental management, environmental science, and sustainable investing principles and practices. Online students may also discuss sustainable operations management, sustainability systems, and climate change policy.

Best Online MBA in Sustainability Management - fact

The delivery of course materials and other learning activities in these online programs differ, too, in their specifics, but there are common aspects. Learning management systems, such as Moodle, Blackboard and Canvas, are used by both students and professors for this purpose. Synchronous and asynchronous courses are common, as are discussion forums, threads and chats, and weekly assignments.

Note that there are 100% online programs that don’t require in-person interactions or on-campus visits. But many of the best online MBA programs also have a residency component, such as on-campus orientations and seminars. But these face-to-face activities are usually kept to a minimum so that working professionals won’t experience significant disruptions.

Admission to an online MBA with a specialization in sustainability programs is usually selective. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic background, performance and potential, professional work experience and demonstrated leadership skills, and personal traits. The minimum admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree with official transcripts and minimum GPA, GRE/GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, professional resume, and personal statement.

At A Glance

The MBA in Sustainability Management degree program has been developed to prepare students to become ethical, socially-responsible, and strategically minded business professionals who possess the intrinsic skills and capacity to recognize and apply economic, environmental and social principles to business operations. By taking a holistic approach to sustainability, this course aims to train students in the ability to assess, monitor and minimize the negative environmental, financial and social impacts of their organizations on the society.

Students will acquire the global business, leadership, and sustainability management skills needed to manage global operations and practices; identify strategies to address organizational problems; and develop innovative solutions to tackling social, economic and environmental challenges.

The best MBA in Sustainability programs have programs of study that combine excellent business education for the 21st century and know-how in sustainability management. Students prepare for the challenges and rewards that come with their choices of management careers or sustainability careers, such as sustainability specialists and chief sustainability officers.

Sustainability programs are among the most challenging MBA programs, too, not only because of the rigorous coursework but also because of the emphasis on corporate responsibility, sustainable business practices, and other sustainability management practices. This isn’t just about business as usual but about interaction with a purpose!

Best Online MBA in Sustainability Management Schools

Business schools that offer the best MBA in Sustainability programs usually have programmatic accreditation from one of three agencies:

AACSB-Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
ACBSP-Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
IACBE-International Accreditation Council for Business Education

The AACSB International accreditation is considered the gold standard, with under 200 business schools accredited.

But some of the best online MBA programs featured here don’t have programmatic accreditation yet provide excellent business education. Their schools’ regional accreditation and reputation are acceptable standards for their inclusion.

Illinois Institute of Technology

Online Dual Degree in Master of Business Administration/Master of Science in Sustainability Analytics and Management Program

The AACSB-accredited MBA and MS in Sustainability Analytics and Management programs empower students with in-depth knowledge of environmental engineering, sustainable business practices, and environmental issues plaguing leaders today. Students in the STEM-designated program gain top-notch sustainability expertise, learn the skills in building sustainable systems, and gain knowledge about environmental science and environmental management.

This is a 30-credit MBA in Sustainability program with seven core business administration courses, including a business strategy capstone. Concentration courses include environmental law, environmental compliance, and industrial ecology.

Pennsylvania State University World Campus

Online MBA in Business Sustainability Strategy Program

The AACSB-accredited Black School of Business offers its outstanding MBA in Business Sustainability Strategy program to business leaders interested in sustainability management. This is a 48-credit program built on the Integration, Collaboration, and Engagement (ICE) framework, where students engage in group projects, participate in real-world business simulations and learn from case studies.

The MBA program starts with core business administration courses before establishing the foundation of sustainability expertise. Students tackle subjects in business sustainability strategy, sustainable supply chain management, and sustainability strategy development. The MBA in sustainability program also has an optional international immersion experience.

Concordia University Wisconsin

Online MBA in Sustainability Management and Analytics Program

As an IACBE-accredited school, CUW’s MBA in Sustainability Management and Analytics program trains students in social and environmental sustainability while meeting the bottom line (i.e., profits and productivity). Students are also encouraged to make positive contributions to the field of sustainable management.

The 36-credit program features intensive business education with an emphasis on operations management and research, lean systems, and Six Sigma principles. The interdisciplinary approach means students also integrate environmental law and chemistry, decision science, industrial ecology, and social entrepreneurship into their studies. Graduates are then in the best positions for both business and sustainability leadership positions.

University of Maine

Online MBA in Sustainability Program

The AACSB-accredited Maine Business School takes pride in its MBA in Sustainability program for its interdisciplinary approach. The program of study covers sustainable community development, land use control, and transportation planning and policy with advanced business administration principles. Students select diverse courses from UMaine’s school of business, public service, and law for this purpose.

The program of study in the online MBA program with a sustainability concentration starts with eight core courses, including managerial marketing and financial management. Then, students complete three concentration courses, including environmental law and policy.

University of Colorado Denver

Online MBA in Managing for Sustainability Program

Offered by the AACSB-accredited CU Denver Business School, the MBA in Managing for Sustainability program features a 45-credit curriculum with 8-week and 16-week courses. Students can earn the MBA in sustainability management degree in 16 months but also have the option to complete its requirements in five years. Applicants choose from three start dates, and GMAT/GRE scores are optional.

Students in the MBA in sustainability management program explore the fundamentals of sustainable business practices, corporate social responsibility, and the competitiveness that sustainability brings. It is recognized as an excellent online MBA program because students learn to act strategically, analyze critically, and behave ethically.

Northeastern University

Online MBA in Sustainability and Business Program

The AACSB-accredited MBA in Sustainability and Business program addresses the need for leaders with a keen sense of commitment to sustainability grounded on informed sustainability expertise. Students develop their knowledge and skills in creating long-term sustainability strategies that prepare them for leadership roles, such as operations manager or sustainability executive.

The MBA program requires the completion of 12 credits of elective courses that customize their degree according to their goals. Choices are in Sustainability and Supply Chain Management, Sustainability and the Economics of Markets, and Creating Sustainable Competitive Advantage through Global Innovation.

Duquesne University

Online MBA in Sustainability Program

The AACSB-accredited MBA programs at Duquesne include its standout MBA in Sustainability program that attracts the best and brightest in future sustainability leaders. Students are committed to effective and efficient management of their organization’s resources, including its people, products, and processes.

The accelerated one-year MBA in Sustainability program has a three-semester program of study that covers the management of organizations with an interdisciplinary perspective. Students learn financial management alongside environmental management, with the outcome being the ability to profit and compete today while planning for tomorrow.

University of Houston Clear Lake

Online MBA in Sustainability Program

UHCL’s AACSB-accredited College of Business offers among the best MBA in Sustainability programs where students develop the knowledge and skills vital to addressing the challenges of 21st-century sustainability. The program of study emphasizes the interdisciplinary approach that covers environmental science, economics, and law, all of which are vital in the creation of sustainable economies and the pursuit of effective environmental management.

The 36-credit MBA in Sustainability program features core courses like corporate finance and managerial economics. Concentration courses include Foundations in Sustainability and Environmental Economics.

Oklahoma State University

Online MBA in Business Sustainability Program

The AACSB-accredited Spears School of Business at Oklahoma State University is known for its top-notch business education, and its MBA in Business Sustainability program is proof of it. This is also among the most affordable MBA programs that attract ambitious working professionals seeking career advancement opportunities. Online students benefit from the quality academic instruction from on-campus professors.

The 39-credit program has a 12-month time-to-completion for motivated full-time students. Required business administration courses include individual and organizational behavior, corporate responsibility, managerial economics, and prescriptive analytics. The MBA in sustainability program’s concentration courses includes management of sustainable enterprises.

University of Massachusetts Boston

Online MBA in Environmental Management and Sustainability Program

The AACSB-accredited MBA in Environmental Management and Sustainability program at UMass Boston provides students with an immersive business education that can be completed part-time or full-time. The online classes are conducted asynchronously. Students gain sustainability expertise through a combination of didactic coursework, real-life simulations, and research opportunities, usually via a master’s thesis.

Students complete three concentration courses, including an introductory course on environmental management and a course in Business and Climate Change. Electives can be a course in environmental finance and accounting, a practicum experience, or an independent research project.

St. John’s University

Online MBA in Sustainability Program

The AACSB-accredited Peter J. Tobin College of Business offers an excellent MBA in Sustainability program where students learn the balance between economic goals and environmental management. Students learn the best practices in the creation and implementation of sustainable business strategies that address critical issues, such as sustainability resources and systems.

Considered among the best online MBA programs, its foundation rests on rigorous business administration coursework. Students tackle courses in marketing management, environmental risk management, and financial management. The MBA in Sustainability program’s three concentration courses includes sustainable marketing.

Southern New Hampshire University

Online MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Compliance Program

SNHU’s ACBSP-accredited MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Compliance program has an average one-year time-to-degree. Students develop their knowledge and skills of the best in green business practices and ecological sustainability that will result in positive changes in the business industry. The program of study covers data analysis and interpretation, organizational leadership and strategies, and environmental compliance and awareness.

Graduates have established careers as environmental executives, advocates, and activists. Their success in and beyond the classroom was promoted thanks to SNHU’s exceptional career services. The online classes are delivered asynchronously, too, meaning maximum convenience for working professionals.

Franklin Pierce University

Online MBA in Energy and Sustainability Program

Students in the IACBE-accredited MBA in Energy and Sustainability program at Franklin Pierce can take advantage of internship and employment opportunities offered by its partner firms in and outside of New England. Students gain sustainability expertise in the renewable energy industry while developing their management skills.

With working professionals, including aspiring business leaders in mind, the MBA in Sustainability online program’s coursework emphasizes practical applications. Students are encouraged to make immediate applications of their learning in their businesses and workplaces, as well as to bring valuable insights into class discussions and assignments.

Nexford University

Online MBA in Sustainability Program

Nexford University is among the latest among nationally accredited universities that offer an MBA in Sustainability program. The flexible schedule allows working professionals to earn the degree in 18 months of full-time studies.

Students learn about the best business practices in sustainable enterprise ventures via real-world projects. Nexford also provides excellent 24/7 support during their online studies, and students receive personalized feedback on their academic performance. Students also develop their technical skills in business analytics and data analysis, which are essential to their sustainability expertise.

Wilmington University

Online MBA in Sustainability Program

WilmU’s IACBE-accredited MBA in Sustainability program is among the best training grounds for future business sustainability leaders. Students develop the best combination of skill sets, from technical skills in strategic sustainable planning to transferable skills necessary in carrying out sustainable plans. Students become effective problem-solvers with communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills to boot.

The MBA in Sustainability degree can be earned in one year, and there’s no GMAT requirement for applicants. Experienced faculty members lead the online classes that consist of core, concentration, and elective courses. The core courses include ethical leadership, while the concentration courses include project management and strategic planning for sustainability.

Presidio Graduate School

Online MBA in Sustainable Solutions Program

The MBA in Sustainable Solutions program at the renowned Presidio Graduate School allows students to choose between full-time and part-time enrollment with a time-to-degree of 2 to 3.5 years. The 53-credit curriculum features a Professional Skills for a Career with Purpose course that prepares students for a rigorous, yet rewarding, business education. Students learn through didactic coursework and experiential learning projects that bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Graduates are empowered to create a more equitable and sustainable world through the best business practices underlined by environmental stewardship, social justice, and empathy for humankind.

Bard College

Online MBA in Sustainability Program

Bard’s MBA in Sustainability program is unique because its students are poised to change the business sustainability game with their advanced knowledge, skills, and vision. Students also participate in business training, organizational leadership, and real-world consulting activities that develop their skill sets and passion.

Graduates are well-positioned for competition in diverse job marketplaces, thanks to their intensive business education and sustainability training. Among their workplaces are significant corporations, nonprofit organizations, and start-ups with a strong sustainability program – or these Bard graduates create it for them! Students also choose from five concentrations, including Impact Finance, Sustainability Consulting, and Circular Value Chain Management.

Anaheim University

Online MBA in Global Sustainable Management Program

The MBA in Global Sustainable Management program at Anaheim, which dubs itself “A Sustainable University,” emphasizes the interdependence between people, the planet, and prosperity. Students then develop their leadership skills, keen sense of corporate social responsibility, and knowledge of sustainable business practices.

The MBA degree can be earned in 18 months and consists of six core business courses, four sustainable management courses, including a capstone course, and two electives. The elective courses highlight that the MBA degree is, indeed, business-focused, with the topics being entrepreneurship and international business. Even the core business courses emphasize the international aspects of marketing, human resource management, and accounting.

Antioch University

Online MBA in Sustainable Business Program

Business acumen underlined by effective sustainability practices is at the heart of Antioch University’s MBA in Sustainable Business program. Students develop their knowledge and skills in putting the triple bottom line approach involving “people, planet, and profits” into practice in diverse settings. Graduates are known to be involved in major corporations and community development organizations, among other workplaces.

The 33-credit program can be completed in 22 months. Students take three concentration courses, including sustainable business strategies, as well as core courses, including Principles of the Triple Bottom Line. There’s an emphasis on ecological economics and environmental sustainability in all courses.

Prescott College

Online MBA in Sustainability Leadership Program

Students develop the passion and skills to become influential change agents while in Prescott’s MBA in Sustainability Leadership program. The program of study covers foundational management knowledge and skills, such as operations management and leadership skills, alongside sustainable business strategies.

The 30-credit curriculum features core courses like the economics of sustainable organizations, sustainable business marketing, and triple bottom-line measurement. The small class sizes promote maximum learning, while the experiential learning opportunities contribute to skills development.

Frequently Asked Questions

What careers await graduates of online MBA in Sustainability Management programs?

The world is theirs for the taking since they are qualified for leadership roles in both management and sustainability careers! Examples include sustainability managers, compliance officers, and environmental engineers.

Is an online MBA in Sustainability degree worth it?

Yes, it is! Sustainability professionals not only earn high salaries but also make a positive difference in the business industry in particular and society in general.

How can you leverage an online MBA in Sustainability degree?

Identify your areas of sustainability expertise, such as in renewable energy or business practices, while also highlighting your business administration skills. Have a passion for lifelong education by upskilling.

What will I learn in an MBA Management program focused on the field of Sustainability?

In an MBA Management program focused on Sustainability, you will learn how to create and lead organizations that are sustainable and responsible. You will learn about environmental policies, environmental regulations, and environmental protection strategies. You will learn how to measure, analyze, and report on the sustainability performance of organizations.

You will learn about the role of sustainability in global business and how to develop strategies for integrating sustainability into corporate operations. Additionally, you will learn how to develop and manage sustainability initiatives, such as green business models, green supply chains, and green marketing strategies.

Will an MBA in Sustainability Management help me advance in my career?

Yes, an MBA in Sustainability Management can help you advance in your career. Learning the principles of sustainability management can help you gain an in-depth knowledge of resource management and sustainability practices, which can be very beneficial for those seeking to make an impact in the business world. With an MBA in Sustainability Management, you can develop the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful leader in the field.

Wrap Up

The best online MBA in Sustainability degrees open up a wonderful world of opportunities to pursue challenging and rewarding careers! The opportunities to save the planet, use business and capitalism for the betterment of society, and give the next generations a fighting chance are also rewards unto themselves.

Before you go, see the following:

Learn more: