Sustainable Business Leadership PGCert

Course overview

Advance your sustainability career in just 8 months with an online PGCert in Sustainable Business Leadership

Designed for busy professionals, this flexible, 100% online Postgraduate Certificate offers a faster, focused route to gaining the sustainability and business leadership skills employers need — with the option to progress to the full MSc in the future.

Taught by expert academics from Leeds University Business School and the School of Earth and Environment, this innovative online Sustainable Business Leadership Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) is one of few courses that fully integrates sustainability and business leadership.

The Sustainable Business Leadership PGCert features specialist modules such as Policy, Governance and Sustainability, Contemporary Economics and Sustainability and Business – all directly aligned with the skills employers are seeking today. You’ll also choose a fourth development module to tailor your learning to your career goals.

In just 8 months (minimum), you will gain the knowledge, skills, and academic credit to upskill quickly and make an immediate impact in your role — while keeping the flexibility to continue your studies towards a full Masters.

You will develop the expertise to:

• Evaluate the risks and opportunities associated with sustainability.
• Apply key sustainability concepts to policy, governance, and business decisions.
• Contribute to transitioning to a more sustainable economy.
• Communicate innovative, evidence-based solutions to stakeholders.

Who is this course for?

The online PGCert in Sustainable Business Leadership is ideal for:

• Aspiring leaders who want to drive sustainability strategies in their sector.
• Professionals seeking targeted, high-impact study without committing to a full Masters.
• Career changers looking to enter the sustainability field with a recognised qualification.

Course highlights

• Gain a Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainable Business Leadership from a world top 100 university (QS World University Rankings, 2026).
• Complete your qualification in as little as 8 months with the flexibility to progress to a full MSc.
• Delivered jointly by the triple-accredited Leeds University Business School and the globally ranked School of Earth and Environment.
• Learn from expert academics, including Dr Laura Smith and Dr James Van Alstine, who also teach our on-campus Masters students.
• Benefit from cutting-edge research via the Sustainability Research Institute, covering areas such as climate change, energy, transport, conservation, and sustainable cities.
• Access strong industry links and collaborations with organisations like the UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC), connecting you to real-world sustainable business challenges.
• Enjoy a flexible, 100% online learning experience designed to equip you with the skills employers seek in sustainability leadership and strategy.

Course details and modules

About our Sustainable Business Leadership PGCert

The online Sustainable Business Leadership PGCert begins with a two-week induction to prepare you for studying online at the University of Leeds including the study skills needed to succeed.

Delivered fully online, the programme is designed for working professionals and features a flexible schedule.

You will complete three core 15-credit modules — Policy, Governance and Sustainability, Contemporary Economics and Sustainability and Business — plus one optional module selected from a range of specialist topics. Each module typically runs for eight weeks allowing you to fit your studies around your work and personal commitments. You can also pause and resume your studies if needed, giving you full control over your learning pace.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

For more information and a full list of typical modules available on this course, please read Sustainable Business Leadership PGCert in the course catalogue

Year 1 compulsory modules

Year 1 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)

Learning and teaching

Studying online

Each week on our PGCert Sustainable Business Leadership, you will engage in live online webinars with your module tutors. These sessions are based on pre-read case studies and scenarios, giving you the opportunity to apply concepts to real-world sustainability challenges. You’ll also have the chance to interact with fellow learners from different sectors and countries, sharing experience and knowledge to deepen your understanding. 

We recognise that professionals have busy lives, so with our 100% online delivery model, you can manage your learning around your personal and work commitments without relocating or incurring additional costs. To support your study, we provide tools such as study planners to help you track your progress and better manage your time.

Minerva

Your learning will be delivered online via our award-winning virtual learning environment, Minerva. Minerva can be accessed on different devices, whenever and wherever it suits you. The platform has been designed by a team of experts to ensure your online learning experience is of the highest quality and prepares you for success, both academically and professionally.

You’ll have access to:

• The Pathways to Success induction course designed for online learning students.
• In-course communication tools, such as discussion forums and announcements, to facilitate collaboration with peers and module tutors across the globe with ease.
• Webinars to engage in real time with module tutors and peers to learn about a range of contemporary subject areas.
• Online advice and support services for Minerva.
• Tools to help self-monitor progress.

We recommend a high-speed broadband internet connection with a minimum speed of 1.5 Mbps. You will need regular access to a desktop computer, tablet, or laptop, with a webcam. You will also need the ability to view PDF documents and work in Microsoft Office (software provided).

As an online student on the ustainable Business Leadership PGCert, you’ll be taught by the same experienced academics who deliver our on-campus Master’s modules. This ensures you receive the same high-quality, research-informed teaching and guidance in a flexible online format. You will also benefit from insights shared by industry professionals, connecting theory to real-world sustainability challenges.

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

Assessment methods for Sustainable Business Leadership PGCert will emphasise not just knowledge, but essential skills development too. Assessments will vary from module to module, with examples including:

• Individual and group projects.
• Assignments to build real-world experience.
• Live and pre-recorded student presentations.
• Literature reviews, using extensive online resources via the library.
• Reflective logs.
• Essays/Written reports.
• Multiple choice exams for formative learning feedback (no more than 5% of summative assessment of the taught modules but are often used as formative feedback to check on your learning). We do not use traditional exams as our experience has indicated that these are not suitable for online learning students).

Applying

Entry requirements

• Postgraduate Certificate Applicants should hold a First or 2.1 (hons) bachelor degree in any subject.
• If you hold a 2.2 (hons) bachelor degree in any subject, or professional qualifications equivalent to bachelor with Honours/ Masters we’ll consider your application for the PGCert course if you have at least two years of relevant work experience.
• If you hold professional qualifications or Higher Education qualifications equivalent to Level 5, we’ll consider your application for the PGCert course if you have at least three years of relevant work experience.
• We welcome applications from professionally qualified candidates who may not meet the formal academic entry requirements.. We will consider non-standard applications on a case-by-case basis.

Applicants will also need:

GCSE English Language grade C, or another appropriate English qualification for example:

• IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other international English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications
• a degree taught in English from a recognised institution, which can be evidenced by transcripts and/or certificates.

GCSE Maths grade C, or another appropriate Maths qualification for example:

• an international equivalent
• a recognised professional qualification with numerical component (eg. ACCA, CFA).

Other forms of evidence outlining mathematical and English abilities can also be considered. Please get in touch and discuss the criteria with our Enrolment Advisors.

How to apply

The ‘Apply’ button at the top of this page takes you to the University's online application system, where you can start your application for this course. Alternatively, you can request further information by ‘registering your interest’.

If you require assistance in completing the online application, please contact studentenquiries.online@leeds.ac.uk. and one of our Enrolment Advisors will be happy to help.

All suitably qualified candidates will be contacted by telephone as part of the selection process.

Identification

The Digital Education Service requires all applicants to provide proof of their identity at the point of application. Accepted forms of ID are:

• Passport photo page, or
• Driving license, or
• National identity card

Deadlines

The deadline for applications to join each intake are outlined below:

• January 26 start: application deadline is 9 December 2025
• March 26 start: application deadline is 17 February 2026
• May 26 start: application deadline is 21 April 2026
• July 26 start: application deadline is 16 June 2026

Applicants for Digital Education Service programmes should contact their Enrolment Advisor to find out more about the course, how to start the online application process and if applicants wish to change their start date after submitting an application.

Email studentenquiries.online@leeds.ac.uk.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2026

This course is taught by

School of Earth and Environment
Leeds University Business School

Contact us

Enrolment Advisor team

Email: studentenquiries.online@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)113 868 6129

Fees

UK: £5,000 (Total)

International: £5,000 (Total)

The fee is composed of (which can be paid on a module-by-module basis*):

• Four taught modules (15 credits each): £1,650 per module

*If you are receiving a student loan or your fees are being paid directly to the University by your employer or sponsor you will not be able to pay on a module-by-module basis. Please check with our Enrolment Advisors.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more at Masters funding overview.

• Graduates of the University of Leeds (or an affiliated institution) are entitled to a 10% bursary towards tuition fees. Find out more about eligibility and how to apply.
• UK students may be able to apply for a UK government-backed loan. Applications should be made through the Student Loans Company. Find out more.

Career opportunities

Careers in sustainability management

Sustainability jobs are varied and contribute to the development of sustainable practices within a broad range of industries. Upon completion of the course you’ll be well placed to enter a range of sustainability careers including:

• Sustainability/ESG Manager
• Sustainability Analyst
• Sustainability Project Manager
• Sustainability Compliance Manager
• Sustainability Marketing Manager
• Sustainability Consultant or Sernior Sustainability Consultant
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager
• Net Zero Consultant

Learn more about the top careers in sustainability management

Employability support

As an online student you’ll benefit from:  

• A range of events on careers and employability run throughout the year that include CV preparation and sustainability job application support.  
• Alumni focused events with recent and past graduates talking about their career journeys.
• Career networking opportunities through industry related events such as:
  • Live online career workshops such as ‘Going Global: The Evolution of Employment’, ‘Postgraduate Careers Support’ and ‘The Journey of a Successful Entrepreneur’.
  • Online professional development webinars and guest lectures delivered by academics and expert practitioners. Examples of previous sessions include ‘Incorporating Sustainability into Your Business Practice’, ‘Leadership in Difficult Times’ and ‘The ESG Agenda: What Do You Need to Know for Your Company Clients and Investors?’

We are committed to supporting you to get the most out of your postgraduate study so that you graduate with excellent career prospects in sustainability management. Our career support will help you in both approaching companies and throughout the application process.

Careers support

The University of Leeds Careers Service offers extensive online resources to help you maximise your studies and achieve your career goals:

• One-to-one support from a careers advisor via telephone or virtual meeting
• Online career workshops, webinars and resources
• A database of job opportunities and online employer events
• LinkedIn Learning platform
• CV writing tips and job application support
• Interview coaching and practice sessions.

The Careers Service also connects students seeking to work in a specific region, and offers professional development through alumni network, online support and employer partnerships. Find out more about Careers support.