The article highlights the 20 best online MBA programs in Sustainability Management. Each ranked school equips students with knowledge of sustainable business practices, green technologies, and environmental sustainability. They also offer flexible enrollment options and cover financial management, environmental science, and sustainable operations topics.

The best online MBA programs in Sustainability Management prepare students for leadership in eco-friendly business practices and sustainable technologies. These programs emphasize the Triple Bottom Line approach, integrating economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Graduates can pursue versatile careers in general management or sustainability-focused roles.

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.

The degree typically requires 30 to 53 credits, with flexible full-time or part-time enrollment options. Full-time students often complete the program in two years, while part-time students may take 3-5 years. Some accelerated programs offer a one-year completion time.

Best Online MBA in Sustainability Management - fact

Online MBA programs in Sustainability Management vary in delivery methods but commonly use learning management systems like Moodle, Blackboard, and Canvas. Courses may be synchronous or asynchronous, with discussion forums, weekly assignments, and chats. Some programs are fully online with no on-campus requirements, while others include minimal face-to-face components like orientations or seminars.

Admission to these programs is selective, requiring a bachelor’s degree, minimum GPA, GRE/GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, a professional resume, and a personal statement. Applicants are evaluated based on academic performance, work experience, leadership skills, and personal qualities.

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.

University of Maine

Online MBA in Sustainability Program

Credit Hours: 33

Tuition: $750 per credit hour

Accreditation: AACSB

The Maine Business School takes pride in its MBA in Sustainability program for its interdisciplinary approach. The program of study covers the following topics:

sustainable community development
land use control
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

Credit Hours: 45

Tuition: $875 per credit hour

Accreditation: AACSB

Offered by the 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.

Illinois Institute of Technology

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

Credit Hours: 30

Tuition: $1,780 per credit hour

Accreditation: AACSB

The MBA and MS in Sustainability Analytics and Management programs empower students with in-depth knowledge of

environmental engineering,
sustainable business practices,
and environmental issues.

Students in the STEM-designated program gain top-notch sustainability expertise. They 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.

Northeastern University

Online MBA in Sustainability and Business Program

Credit Hours: 50

Tuition: $900 per credit hour

Accreditation: AACSB

The 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
Creating Sustainable Competitive Advantage through Global Innovation

Pennsylvania State University World Campus

Online MBA in Business Sustainability Strategy Program

Credit Hours: 48

Tuition: $1,260

Accreditation: AACSB

The Black School of Business offers its outstanding MBA in Business Sustainability Strategy program to business leaders interested in sustainability management. This is a program built on the Integration, Collaboration, and Engagement (ICE) framework. 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
sustainability strategy development

The MBA in sustainability program also has an optional international immersion experience.

Duquesne University

Online MBA in Sustainability Program

Credit Hours: 39

Tuition: $20,543 full tuition

Accreditation: AACSB

The MBA programs at Duquesne include its standout One-Year MBA 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.

Oklahoma State University

Online MBA in Business Sustainability Program

Credit Hours: 39

Tuition: $29,350 total tuition

Accreditation: AACSB

The 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
prescriptive analytics

The MBA in sustainability program’s concentration courses includes management of sustainable enterprises.

University of Houston Clear Lake

Online MBA in Sustainability Program

Credit Hours: 36

Tuition: $1,691 per one, three-hour course

Accreditation: AACSB

UHCL’s College of Business offers among the best MBA in Sustainability programs. 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 topics that are vital in the creation of sustainable economies and the pursuit of effective environmental management. This includes:

environmental science
economics
law

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

Foundations in Sustainability
Environmental Economics

St. John’s University

Online MBA in Sustainability Program

Credit Hours: 36

Tuition: $1,575 per credit hour

Accreditation: AACSB

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
financial management

The MBA in Sustainability program’s three concentration courses includes sustainable marketing.

University of Massachusetts Boston

Online MBA in Environmental Management and Sustainability Program

Credit Hours: 36-42

Tuition: $575 per credit hour

Accreditation: AACSB

The 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 two concentration courses, including

introductory course on environmental management
business and climate change

Electives can be a course in

economics of renewables: marine and energy resources
sustainable finance and impact investing
practicum

Southern New Hampshire University

Online MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Compliance Program

Credit Hours: 30

Tuition: $637 per credit hour

Accreditation: ACBSP

SNHU’s 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
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.

Wilmington University

Online MBA in Sustainability Program

Credit Hours: 36

Tuition: $1,611 per course

Accreditation: IACBE

WilmU’s 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.

Core courses include

ethical leadership
global marketing management
IT in business

Concentration courses include

project management
strategic planning for sustainability

Franklin Pierce University

Online MBA in Energy and Sustainability Program

Credit Hours: 39

Tuition: $665 per credit hour

Accreditation: IACBE

Students in the 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. Courses of the track include:

the future of energy, business and society
building a sustainable enterprise
energy economics

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.

Concordia University Wisconsin

Online MBA in Sustainability Management and Analytics Program

Credit Hours: 36

Tuition: $16,650 full year

Accreditation: IACBE

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
Six Sigma principles

The interdisciplinary approach means students also integrate the following subjects into their studies:

environmental law and chemistry
decision science
industrial ecology
social entrepreneurship

Graduates are then in the best positions for both business and sustainability leadership positions.

Antioch University

Online MBA in Sustainable Business Program

Credit Hours: 33

Tuition: $614 per semester hour

Accreditation: HLC

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.

Presidio Graduate School

Online MBA in Sustainable Solutions Program

Credit Hours: 53

Tuition: $1,430 per course

Accreditation: WSCUC

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. Featured courses include:

economics for sustainability
energy systems for sustainability
data analytics
climate and ESG

Prescott College

Online MBA in Sustainability Leadership Program

Credit Hours: 30

Tuition: $19,506 per twelve credits

Accreditation: HLC

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
leadership skills
sustainable business strategies

The 30-credit curriculum features core courses like

economics of sustainable organizations
sustainable business marketing
triple bottom-line measurement

The small class sizes promote maximum learning, while the experiential learning opportunities contribute to skills development.

Nexford University

Online MBA in Sustainability Program

Credit Hours: 39

Tuition: $5,400 per semester

Accreditation: DEAC

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. Topics cover

food and agribusiness
renewable energy
managing healthcare

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.

Bard College

Online MBA in Sustainability Program

Credit Hours: 60

Tuition: $930 per credit hour

Accreditation: MSCHE

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
Circular Value Chain Management

Anaheim University

Online MBA in Global Sustainable Management Program

Credit Hours: 36

Tuition: $1,325 per course

Accreditation: DEAC

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. Specialized courses include:

triple bottom line accountability and management
corporate social responsibility and ethics
sustainable management capstone course

The MBA degree can be earned in 18 months and consists of six core business courses, 3-4 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.

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 sustainable, responsible organizations in an MBA Management program focused on Sustainability.
Study environmental policies, regulations, and protection strategies.
Gain skills in measuring, analyzing, and reporting on organizational sustainability performance.
Understand the role of sustainability in global business.
Develop strategies for integrating sustainability into corporate operations.
Learn to create and manage sustainability initiatives, including:
Green business models
Green supply chains
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.

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