Top 9 ESG Certifications & Courses for Professionals in 2026

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. Thus, the requirement for ESG training and sustainability certification is growing at an unparalleled rate.

Identifying and managing ESG risks is a critical component of ESG training and certification, as it helps professionals master risk management and integrate ESG factors into investment decisions and portfolios.

Some key questions people are seeking answers for:

• How to get started with learning about Environment, Social and Governance?
• How to become an ESG specialist?
• What are the best online ESG and/or sustainability certificate programmes?

In this article, we delve into the best 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.

Top 9 ESG Courses and Certifications for Professionals in 2026

The following top 4 courses as below are linked to the leading sustainability frameworks (GRI, SASB, CDP and PRI).

Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Sustainability Reporting Certification

Duration: Self-paced Effort: 16 hours Price: €1,250.00

The GRI Professional Certification Program provides sustainability professionals with a thorough understanding of sustainability reporting and the application of GRI Standards. Designed to enhance skills in implementing these standards, the program aims to improve the quality of sustainability reporting. Participants can choose between two flexible learning options: an online, self-paced course through the GRI Academy or instructor-led training from GRI Certified Training Partners. This certification equips professionals with the knowledge and practical experience needed to confidently create high-quality ESG reports and sustainability documents.

This programme provides 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.

Fundamentals of Sustainability Accounting (FSA) - SASB Standards

Duration: Self-paced

The Fundamentals of Sustainability Accounting (FSA) Credential, developed under the IFRS Foundation and closely linked to the SASB Standards, equips professionals (accountants, fiscal analysts) with the skills to connect sustainability factors to financial performance. Through two levels of exams, candidates gain a deep understanding of sustainability disclosure standards, such as the IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards, and learn to analyze how sustainability-related risks and opportunities impact a company's financial health. The FSA Credential is ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in integrating sustainability into financial analysis (ESG metrics, data collection & analysis, risk management and sustainability reporting strategies) and decision-making.

CDP (formerly known as the Carbon Disclosure Project)

Price: free webinars and workshops

CDP (formerly known as the Carbon Disclosure Project) is a leading global organization that operates a comprehensive climate reporting framework. It enables companies, cities, and governments to measure, manage, and disclose their environmental impact across key areas like climate change, water security, corporate social responsibility and deforestation. CDP's data-driven approach helps organizations improve their sustainability practices and contributes to global efforts in environmental transparency and action.

CDP does not offer direct accreditation or certification programs. However, it plays a pivotal role in sustainability education by organizing various events, webinars, and workshops throughout the year. These platforms provide valuable insights into environmental reporting, sustainability practices, and the latest trends in climate, water, and forest disclosures, helping professionals stay informed and engaged in the ESG landscape.

Link to CDP events, webinars and workshops are available here.

PRI (Principles for Responsible Investment) Academy ESG Integration Course

Duration: Self-paced Effort: 3 hours Price: £300

PRI launched its academy in 2014 to address the need for a common language around ESG across the industry. The Academy aims to use the most up-to-date responsible investment practices to bridge the skills gap in the industry that is holding back the integration of ESG into investment strategies.

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.

The following two courses as below are the best courses on ESG investing.

CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing

Duration: 6 months Price: €779

The CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing is designed to provide finance professionals with practical knowledge and skills in integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into investment decisions. Covering topics like ESG analysis, investment analysis, portfolio management, and industry practices, the program helps participants better understand the impact of ESG on financial performance. It is ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in responsible investing and align their strategies with sustainable financial practices.

EFFAS Certified ESG Analyst® (CESGA)

Duration: Self-paced Price: €1,500.00

Main objective of this certification is to make the participants understand important of ESG issues and factions in the investment process and analysis. This certification provides opportunity to learn and advance your knowledge of ESG valuation, measurements, and ESG integrated portfolio construction. You can review all course information here.

The following ESG & sustainability courses as below cover wide range of topics ranging from ESG strategy, corporate ESG data to ESG Reporting.

ESG Diploma Course by CFI

Duration: Self-paced Effort: 30 hours Price: €4,495

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.

Corporate ESG Training by Sustainalytics

Focuses on ESG risk ratings and Methodologies, how they are used by investors and corporates, read, interpret and compare esg rating report. Sustainalytics is one of the largest ESG data providers which coming out with their own ESG risk rating for corporates, covering around 10,000 large companies. It offers a thorough overview of the risks and opportunities that come with ESG considerations.

Follow this link to download the brochure and learn more.

ESG Reporting - Certified Course by EcoSkills

Duration: Self-paced Effort: 15-20 hours Price: $499

This program boosts your career by improving your capabilities as a sustainability professional, reporting practitioner, or communicator. The ESG Reporting Certified Course by EcoSkills Academy offers comprehensive training on creating high-quality ESG reports. Participants will learn about legislative and regulatory requirements, key ESG reporting standards (CSDR, GRI, SASB), and how to report on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The course includes practical tools and hands-on training, enhancing your ability to optimize and communicate your organization’s ESG performance effectively.

For more details, visit EcoSkills.

Courses by Udemy to get started with ESG and Sustainability

Udemy offers ESG courses that can enhance your sustainability knowledge and skills, including the following:

Essential ESG courses and certifications to enhance your skills:

• Corporate ESG and Sustainability - 101 Level Masterclass
• ESG and Sustainable Investing 365
• The A to Z of ESG - Environmental & Social Governance
• How Sustainability is Changing The Financial Sector

Looking for Free Online ESG Courses?

While many ESG courses come at a cost, there are also free options that provide robust and reliable learning opportunities. These courses offer a strong introduction to environmental, social, and governance principles, making them suitable for both professionals and students. Whether you're new to ESG or seeking to deepen your understanding, these free resources offer a practical way to build your knowledge without any financial burden.

Below are two noteworthy courses that offer practical guidance and applicable strategies in the ESG field.

Introduction to ESG: Corporate Finance Institute

The Introduction to ESG course by the Corporate Finance Institute (CFI) is a fantastic way to get to grips with the essentials of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. It dives into how ESG factors influence financial decision-making, risk management, and the broader performance of companies.

This course is designed with analysts, investment professionals, and business students in mind, offering a clear and thorough understanding of ESG's role in shaping businesses and their relationships with stakeholders. By the end, participants will feel confident identifying key ESG issues, analyzing risks and opportunities, and turning ESG data into meaningful, actionable insights.

ESG Risks and Opportunities: University of Pennsylvania

UPenn’s ESG Risks and Opportunities course is ideal for anyone ready to take their ESG knowledge to the next level. It’s all about understanding how ESG considerations impact markets and how to harness these factors to create value through smart, sustainable investment strategies.

What makes this course stand out is its practical approach. It uses real-world case studies and hands-on techniques to teach participants how to assess ESG risks and opportunities, integrate them into investment decisions, and develop robust portfolio strategies.

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.

How to Become an ESG Analyst in 2026

ESG analyst roles have exploded in demand, with job postings increasing 65% year-over-year according to LinkedIn data. These professionals evaluate companies' environmental, social, and governance practices to inform investment decisions. Here's the typical career path:

1. Foundation (0-2 years): Start with a bachelor's degree in finance, environmental science, or sustainability. Complete foundational certifications like the CFA ESG Certificate or GRI Standards.
2. Specialization (2-4 years): Gain experience in financial analysis or sustainability consulting. Pursue advanced certifications like SASB FSA or CESGA for specialized credentials.
3. Senior Roles (5+ years): Progress to senior ESG analyst, portfolio manager, or ESG director roles. The average ESG analyst salary in 2026 ranges from $75,000-$150,000 depending on location and seniority.

Sustainability Training for Your Team

Beyond individual certifications, organizations increasingly need sustainability training for employees at all levels. Here's how to build an ESG-literate workforce:

• Executive Leadership: Focus on strategic ESG integration, materiality assessment, and stakeholder engagement. The CFI ESG Diploma and PRI Academy courses work well here.
• Middle Management: Emphasize operational sustainability, supply chain ESG risks, and reporting requirements. GRI and SASB certifications provide the needed frameworks.
• All Employees: Start with free introductory courses from CFI or Coursera to build baseline awareness of sustainability concepts and your company's ESG commitments.

Pro tip: Many of the certifications listed above offer corporate group rates. Contact providers directly for team pricing—discounts of 20-40% are common for groups of 10+ employees.

Frequently Asked Questions about ESG Certification (FAQs)

Is a CFA ESG certificate worth it?

Yes, the CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing is highly valued in the finance industry. It provides in-depth knowledge of ESG factors, practical applications, and the latest trends in sustainable investing, making it a valuable addition to your qualifications and helping to advance your career in ESG investing.

What is the most suitable ESG certification for financial professionals?

The most suitable ESG certification for financial professionals often depends on their career goals. Options like the CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing and EFFAS Certified ESG Analyst® (CESGA) are highly regarded for integrating ESG criteria into investment decision-making, portfolio management, and governance analysis.

How can an ESG certification help in sustainable investing?

An ESG certification equips professionals with practical skills to assess ESG factors, evaluate climate risks, and align investment portfolios with sustainable finance principles, giving them a competitive edge in the ESG space.

What ESG certification is best for business leaders and executives?

Business leaders aiming to integrate sustainable business practices and ethical governance may benefit most from advanced programs such as the ESG Diploma Course by CFI or the Corporate Governance Institute's ESG Diploma, which focus on strategy, stakeholder expectations, and sustainability leadership.

How do ESG certifications address governance issues?

ESG certifications cover governance factors such as board accountability, corporate ethics, and compliance frameworks, enabling professionals to tackle governance challenges while boosting sustainability performance.

How can a Sustainable Investing Certificate benefit asset managers?

A Sustainable Investing Certificate helps asset managers integrate ESG factors into the investment decision-making process, enabling them to identify ethical investment opportunities, mitigate sustainability challenges, and achieve long-term returns.

Why is choosing the right ESG certification important for competitive advantage?

Selecting the right ESG certification allows professionals to enhance their expertise in ethical practices, gain a competitive advantage in asset management, and learn at their own pace while addressing modern sustainability challenges.

What are the best ESG certification courses for professionals in 2026?

Some of the best ESG certification courses for professionals include the CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing, EFFAS Certified ESG Analyst® (CESGA), PRI Academy ESG Integration Course, and the GRI Sustainability Reporting Certification. These programs offer a comprehensive understanding of ESG frameworks and help learners integrate sustainable business models into their professional practice.

How can ESG certifications help integrate ESG principles into corporate strategies?

ESG certifications train professionals to integrate ESG principles into corporate strategies, decision-making, and long-term sustainability goals. Through practical frameworks and sustainability data analysis, learners gain the ability to align strategic objectives with global sustainability standards and ethical practices.

Why are ESG certifications essential for sustainability leaders and senior executives?

For sustainability leaders and senior executives, ESG certifications are key to driving sustainability initiatives and making informed decisions. They provide tools to develop sustainable business models, manage ESG risks, and champion ethical decision-making within their organizations.

Which ESG certifications have global recognition and industry credibility?

Certifications like the CFA Institute’s Certificate in ESG Investing, EFFAS CESGA, and GRI Professional Certification have global recognition and are trusted by industry experts across sectors. They are ideal for professionals seeking international credibility in corporate sustainability and asset management.

How do ESG certifications support sustainable investment and private equity sectors?

ESG certifications enhance understanding of financial models, carbon markets, and asset classes by integrating sustainability data into investment strategies. For those in private equity or finance, these certifications provide insights into how ESG policies can identify new business opportunities while managing long-term sustainability risks.

Can ESG certifications help organizations build more sustainable supply chains?

Yes. Many top ESG certifications emphasize responsible sourcing and ethical procurement practices. By focusing on supply chains, professionals can ensure compliance with global standards, reduce environmental impact, and build partnerships that contribute to a more sustainable future.

How do ESG certification programs prepare professionals to meet global sustainability challenges?

By covering subjects such as human rights, risk management, and corporate governance, ESG certification programs prepare professionals to tackle sustainability challenges and create meaningful impact in their industries. They empower learners to apply ESG insights across sectors for measurable change.

What makes ESG certification valuable for decision makers in today’s business landscape?

ESG certifications give decision makers a strong foundation in corporate sustainability, data-driven strategy, and ethical governance. This knowledge enables them to adapt to global trends, align with investors’ sustainability expectations, and lead organizations toward a sustainable future.