Top 9 ESG Courses And Certifications For Professionals

As more people become conscious of the effects that corporate behaviour can have on our environment, communities, and society as a whole, ESG (environmental, social and governance) has become an essential focal point for businesses and individuals. The requirement for ESG training and sustainability certification is thus growing at an unparalleled rate.

So, there are questions. How to become ESG compliant? How to become an ESG specialist? What are the best online sustainability certificate programmes? In this article, we delve into the top 9 ESG certifications and courses available for professionals that yield invaluable insights regarding skill sets, knowledge bases, and what an ESG qualification can do for your professional development to enhance your career.

Best ESG Courses and Certifications for Professionals

Here are the top online sustainability courses and certifications for professionals to advance in the ESG sector:

Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Sustainability Reporting Certification

With this certification, you'll be able to hone your skills in crafting top-tier sustainability reports as a sustainability professional, reporting practitioner, or communicator. This programme will provide instruction on subjects such as data collection and disclosure for sustainable practices, with the added bonus of practical experience through hands-on training, helping you to confidently create quality sustainability documents within the context of ESG reporting.

Sustainalytics ESG Fundamentals Certification

If you're an investment professional, asset manager or analyst looking to deepen your knowledge on ESG topics such as sustainability reporting, ESG analysis, and responsible investing, then this certification is for you. It offers a thorough overview of the risks and opportunities that come with ESG considerations - invaluable information for anyone who wants to stay ahead in today's competitive market.

Follow this link to download the brochure and learn more.

SASB Fundamentals of Sustainability Accounting

To improve sustainability-related financial reporting, this certification focuses on applying SASB standards to the accounting process. Perfect for accountants, fiscal analysts, and sustainability professionals alike, it offers comprehensive education in topics such as ESG metrics, data collection & analysis, risk management and sustainability reporting strategies.

Download the handbook here and find out how to register.

CDP Climate Change Course

Formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project, CDP runs comprehensive courses that dives deep into the science, effects, and commerce-related issues of climate change. They are created to help sustainability professionals, investment specialists, and corporate executives understand topics such as carbon accounting, renewable energy transition and sustainable strategy.

Updated links to current courses and workshops are available here.

PRI (Principles for Responsible Investment) Academy ESG Integration Course

Investment professionals, asset managers and analysts alike can benefit from courses which provide training on how to integrate ESG factors into sustainable investments. Through topics including ESG analysis, sustainability reporting and responsible investing, the course offers a detailed exploration of PRI's 6 principles for responsible investment and how material ESG factors can inform the investment process. With an in-depth look at these important subjects, you'll be empowered with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions when it comes to your investments.

Find all PRI’s courses here.

CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing

Discover the CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing and learn about the newest trends, practical applications, and technical knowledge related to the quickly-expanding field of sustainable investing. By completing this course you can make a greater impact with your investments while rapidly progressing your career path. 

EFFAS Certified ESG Analyst® (CESGA)

Are you looking for the opportunity to learn and advance your knowledge of ESG valuation, measurements, and integration into investment analysis? Look no further than the Certified Environmental, Social and Governance Analyst training programme, which combines essential ESG elements with insightful fundamental company analysis at both a basic and advanced level. You can review all course information here. 

Featured Article: (What’s The Difference Between SRI, ESG, And Impact Investing?)

ESG Diploma Course by CFI

Enrolling in the Corporate Governance Institute's Diploma in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) can provide you with all of the qualifications and techniques necessary to become a true ESG leader. Through an innovative combination of written materials, podcasts, interactive exercises and scenario challenges, you'll learn everything there is to know about this important field. This is a comprehensive offering with a more substantial pricing structure, so be sure to read through the brochure to learn more. 

International Association for Sustainable Economy (IASE)

IASE's course provides two distinct certifications: ISF (International Sustainable Finance): Level 1 for the financial sector and ISB (International Sustainable Business): Level 1 for business. The first option prepares you to work within the finance world, while the second will equip you with a fundamental understanding of sustainable business practices.

Watch the presentation videos and access all you need to know about the course offerings here.

All in all, these certificates and programmes provide a vast selection of knowledge and skill sets pertaining to ESG. From sustainability reporting and data gathering to responsible investments as well as ESG assessments; by completing one of these courses professionals can not only demonstrate their dedication towards the subject but also gain an edge over others when it comes down to competing in this quickly growing field.

ESG and sustainable development is a diverse area of study, so make sure to allocate time to reading through the ESG accreditation offerings so you can find which courses are truly suitable to your own work needs. As a guide, take a look at our helpful steps for earning an ESG certificate as well.

Keep track of available courses such as these, and many more globally, via our ESG Certification & Courses page. We keep all the updated courses in one place to help you compare and make the right decision.