Best MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management
An MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management is designed for professionals looking to lead sustainability initiatives, implement environmental policies, and develop corporate social responsibility strategies. This specialization focuses on sustainable business practices, environmental policy, renewable energy management, and corporate sustainability reporting, equipping graduates with the expertise to manage sustainable supply chains, carbon footprint reduction programs, and green business innovation.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in sustainability management roles is expected to grow significantly as companies focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. Additionally, the median salary for sustainability managers is $118,000, with leadership roles in corporate sustainability reporting and environmental policy earning higher (BLS). A report by Deloitte states that 90% of CEOs believe sustainability is essential for long-term business success, and organizations that prioritize sustainability see up to 25% higher profitability (Deloitte).
An MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management specialization is ideal for professionals seeking to lead green business transformations, implement environmental policies, and drive corporate sustainability goals.
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Table of Contents
What is an Online MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management?
An Online MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management provides a flexible pathway for professionals looking to develop expertise in sustainable business strategies, environmental compliance, and renewable energy management while continuing their careers. These programs focus on climate change mitigation, corporate sustainability, and green business practices, helping students prepare for leadership roles in environmental consulting, sustainable business management, and renewable energy industries.
Students gain expertise in ESG reporting, sustainable finance, and environmental policy frameworks, ensuring they are equipped to lead sustainability initiatives and integrate environmental responsibility into business operations. Many online programs include real-world sustainability case studies, green business simulations, and carbon footprint reduction projects, providing an immersive learning experience.
What Are the Admissions Requirements for an MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management?
Admissions requirements for an MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management vary by program, but typically include:
- Bachelor’s Degree – From an accredited institution, often a Bachelor of Business Administration or a bachelor’s in environmental science, sustainability, or a related field.
- Work Experience – 2-5 years of professional experience in sustainability, environmental policy, or corporate social responsibility is preferred.
- GMAT/GRE Scores – Some programs require standardized test scores, while others offer waivers.
- Personal Statement – Discussing career goals and why the applicant is pursuing an MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management.
- Letters of Recommendation – Typically from employers, sustainability executives, or academic mentors.
- Resume – Highlighting experience in environmental management, green business initiatives, or corporate sustainability.
Is an MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management the Right Specialization for You?
An MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management specialization is best suited for environmentally conscious professionals, strategic thinkers, and passionate about sustainable business. If you are interested in corporate sustainability, climate change policies, and green business innovation, this specialization will provide the necessary skills for career advancement.
Compared to other MBA specializations, such as Corporate Social Responsibility or Energy Management, an MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management focuses on environmental impact reduction, renewable energy strategies, and sustainable business operations. If you want to lead corporate sustainability initiatives, develop environmental policies, or work in the renewable energy sector, this program may best fit you.
2026 Best MBA in Sustainability & Environmental Management Programs
University of Houston-Clear Lake
Houston, TX - Public 4-Year - uhcl.edu
Master's - Business Administration MBA
Concentration: Sustainability - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Houston-Clear Lake's MBA with a Sustainability Concentration offers a 36-credit-hour program that equips professionals to lead environmental innovation across industries. Available in online, hybrid, or traditional classroom formats, it provides flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum delves into sustainable business practices, addressing legal, economic, and managerial aspects of environmental challenges. With competitive Texas resident tuition at $1,691 per course and potential GRE/GMAT waivers, this AACSB-accredited program prepares graduates for roles in environmental consultancy and corporate sustainability, featuring experienced faculty and application deadlines in fall and spring.
- 36 credit-hour MBA program
- Multiple learning format options
- Online, hybrid, classroom classes
- Potential GRE/GMAT waiver
- Texas resident tuition: $1,691/course
- AACSB accredited business program
- Best MBA in Sustainability 2021
- Taught by experienced professors
- Environmental management focus
- Fall application deadline: August 1
Master's - Business Administration MBA
Concentration: Environmental Management - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Houston-Clear Lake's MBA with an Environmental Management Concentration is a 36-credit-hour program designed to tackle global sustainability issues while honing business leadership skills. It covers environmental policy, law, assessment, and pollution control through an industry-informed curriculum. Offered fully online or in hybrid formats with 16-week sessions, it accommodates working professionals and may waive GRE/GMAT requirements for qualified candidates. As an AACSB-accredited program taught exclusively by faculty, it opens doors to fall, spring, and summer admissions, positioning graduates to drive impactful change in various sectors.
- 36-credit-hour MBA program
- Fully online or hybrid format
- Environmental management concentration
- 16-week course sessions
- GRE/GMAT waiver possible
- AACSB-accredited business school
- Industry-informed curriculum
- No graduate teaching assistants
- Fall, Spring, Summer admissions
University of South Dakota
Vermillion, SD - Public 4-Year - usd.edu
Master's - Business Administration
Concentration: Sustainability - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Dakota's online MBA with a Sustainability concentration equips professionals to integrate environmental innovation into business strategy. This AACSB-accredited program offers flexible full-time, hybrid, and online formats, allowing completion in as little as 12 months. It emphasizes critical thinking and social responsibility to address complex sustainability challenges across industries. Admission requires a minimum 2.7 undergraduate GPA, a resume, and a $35 application fee, with decisions in three weeks. As a master's program, it may require entrance exams like the GMAT or GRE, though specific requirements should be verified with the university.
- AACSB International Accredited
- Full-time, hybrid, online formats
- Sustainability specialization available
- As little as 12-month program
- Graduate in 2 years online
- Minimum 2.7 undergraduate GPA
- Application fee $35
- Three-week application deadline
- Resume required for admission
- WICHE Regional Graduate Program
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Minneapolis, MN - Public 4-Year - twin-cities.umn.edu
Master's - Sustainable Environmental, Social, and Governance Management
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities offers a hybrid MBA specialization in Sustainable Environmental, Social, and Governance Management, designed for mid-career professionals with 5-6 years of experience. This interdisciplinary program integrates business strategy with sustainability science, supply chain management, and financial reporting to address complex ESG challenges. Students gain skills in stakeholder responsibility and innovative problem-solving across diverse industries through flexible full-time or part-time formats. The curriculum requires 12-13 credits and emphasizes practical applications for driving organizational change. As a master's level program, entrance exams such as the GMAT or GRE are typically required, though specific waiver policies may apply based on professional experience.
- Interdisciplinary MBA specialization
- Full-time and part-time formats
- Average 5-6 years work experience
- Hybrid learning options
- Sponsored by multiple schools
- 12-13 total credits required
- Focuses on ESG problem-solving
- Multiple career path opportunities
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK - Public 4-Year - okstate.edu
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Business Sustainability - Online Learning - Visit Website
Oklahoma State University's online MBA with a Business Sustainability concentration prepares professionals to address environmental challenges through strategic leadership. The program emphasizes sustainable enterprise management, social responsibility, and business ethics, blending theory with practical applications. Students complete 12 credit hours in the concentration, with core courses in sustainable enterprises and flexible electives. Offered online and at Stillwater and Tulsa locations, it includes interdisciplinary options and a certificate pathway. This program does not require an entrance exam and is military-friendly, equipping graduates to drive organizational change in sustainability-focused roles.
- Online, Stillwater, Tulsa locations
- 12 credit hours for concentration
- Core courses in sustainable enterprises
- Social responsibility focus
- Flexible elective options
- Interdisciplinary course selection
- Beginning Spring 2024 changes
- Certificate option available
Yale University
New Haven, CT - Private 4-year - yale.edu
Master's - MBA/MEM
Campus Based - Visit Website
Yale University's joint MBA/MEM program, established in 1982 as the first management-environment degree, integrates business strategy with environmental management over a three-year curriculum. Students develop skills in sustainable business practices and market dynamics through interdisciplinary study across the School of Management and School of the Environment. This program prepares leaders to address complex environmental challenges, requiring entrance exams like GMAT or GRE for admission. It emphasizes innovative leadership at the intersection of business and sustainability, leveraging Yale's resources for transformative professional impact.
- First joint management-environment degree
- Established in 1982
- Three-year integrated program
- Combines MBA with MEM/MF
- Two schools: SOM and Yale Environment
- Curriculum spans both schools
- Independent admissions process
- Flexible application pathways
- Business and environment intersection
- Innovative leadership preparation
Master's - MBA/MF
Campus Based - Visit Website
Yale's MBA/MF joint degree, launched in 1982, combines business leadership with environmental management in a three-year program. Students engage in an integrated curriculum across the School of Management and School of the Environment, focusing on sustainable development strategies. This pioneering approach equips professionals to tackle environmental issues in market contexts, with admissions requiring entrance exams such as GMAT or GRE. The program offers flexible application pathways and prepares graduates to drive meaningful change as business-environment leaders.
- First joint management-environment degree
- Created in 1982
- MBA/MEM or MBA/MF options
- Three-year integrated curriculum
- Study across two Yale schools
- Requires separate program admissions
- Flexible application pathways
- Prepares business environmental leaders
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC - Public 4-Year - unc.edu
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Sustainable Enterprise - Campus Based - Visit Website
UNC Chapel Hill's MBA with a Sustainable Enterprise concentration equips students to integrate profit, social good, and environmental care through innovative strategies. The program, ranked #15 for sustainability by Fortune, emphasizes cross-disciplinary learning in policy, international studies, and environmental areas, fostering skills for roles in clean tech, impact investing, and corporate sustainability. It features experiential learning, global immersions, and resources like the Ackerman Center, with no entrance exam required as it's not explicitly stated.
- Sustainability concentration in MBA
- Cross-disciplinary course options
- Multiple career path opportunities
- Global immersion electives
- Impact investing competitions
- Ackerman Center resources
- Social impact summer grants
- Experiential learning focus
- Industry-diverse course offerings
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA - Private 4-year - cmu.edu
Master's - MBA Sustainability Concentration
Campus Based - Visit Website
Carnegie Mellon University's MBA Sustainability Concentration provides an interdisciplinary education combining quantitative methods with sustainability insights. Students develop expertise in energy policy, finance, and sustainable operations through the Tepper Sustainability Initiative. The program emphasizes technology-driven approaches to environmental challenges, preparing graduates for careers in natural resources, supply chain management, and sustainable business practices. This campus-based MBA program requires entrance exams such as GMAT or GRE for admission.
- MBA Sustainability Concentration
- Interdisciplinary sustainability focus
- Courses in energy and policy
- Tepper Sustainability Initiative
- Quantitative and computational approach
- Career paths in energy, resources
- Courses include policy, finance
- Technology-driven sustainability learning
Master's - MBA Energy and Sustainability Track
Concentration: Energy and Sustainability - Campus Based - Visit Website
Carnegie Mellon's MBA Energy and Sustainability Track focuses specifically on energy innovation and sustainable business practices. The program integrates engineering perspectives with business strategy, offering specialized coursework and hands-on capstone projects with industry partners. Students learn to navigate complex energy transitions and drive competitive advantage through strategic energy management. This campus-based MBA requires entrance exams like GMAT or GRE and provides extensive networking opportunities within the energy sector.
- Energy and Sustainability Track
- Interdisciplinary curriculum
- Specialized engineering courses
- Capstone project experience
- Industry networking opportunities
- Career paths in energy sector
- Collaboration with engineering school
- Focus on sustainable business practices
Rowan University
Glassboro, NJ - Public 4-Year - rowan.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Sustainable Business - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Rowan University's MBA in Sustainable Business prepares professionals to integrate environmental and social responsibility into corporate strategy. This hybrid program emphasizes sustainability assessment, green business practices, and ESG strategies through a 36-credit curriculum. Students engage in project-based learning and can customize their concentration with three required sustainability courses. The program does not require an entrance exam, offering flexibility with online options and a Net Impact student chapter for real-world experience. Graduates are equipped to address complex global challenges and pursue diverse career pathways in sustainable business.
- 36-credit MBA curriculum
- Sustainability business concentration
- Online course options available
- 3 required sustainability courses
- Flexible concentration customization
- Focuses on ESG strategies
- Project-based learning approach
- Net Impact student chapter
- Multiple career pathway options
- Rowan Global MBA pathway
University of Maine
Orono, ME - Public 4-Year - umaine.edu
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Sustainability - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Maine's hybrid MBA in Sustainability program equips professionals with skills to implement environmentally conscious business strategies, blending advanced business principles with sustainable development expertise. This STEM-designated degree requires 24 core and 9 concentration hours, offering multiple sustainability electives and interdisciplinary courses. Designed for working professionals, it includes flexible options like foundation courses and non-credit prerequisites. As a master's level program, it typically requires the GMAT or GRE entrance exam. Students gain strategic abilities in sustainable community development, policy analysis, and ethical practices, positioning them as leaders in green business transformation.
- 100% Online MBA Program
- STEM-designated Degree
- 24 Core + 9 Concentration Hours
- Multiple Sustainability Electives
- Foundation Courses Available
- Non-credit Prerequisites Option
- Interdisciplinary Course Selection
- Comprehensive Business Curriculum
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI - Public 4-Year - umich.edu
Master's - Erb Institute MBA/MS
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Erb Institute MBA/MS in Sustainability and Environment at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is a three-year dual degree program that merges business acumen with environmental science expertise. Students engage in specialized sustainability areas such as renewable energy and corporate responsibility, supported by two summer internships and hands-on research projects. This campus-based program requires a dual degree application and does not mandate specific entrance exams for admission. Graduates are equipped to drive sustainable innovation across various sectors, making a significant environmental and economic impact.
- Three-year integrated dual degree
- 57 MBA credit hours total
- 32 SEAS MS credit hours
- Two distinct summer internships
- Real-world sustainability research
- Cross-sector career exploration
- Specialized sustainability focus areas
- Faculty from multiple disciplines
- Dual degree application required
MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management Curriculum: What Classes Will I Take?
Most MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management programs take 1-2 years to complete, depending on whether students enroll full-time, part-time, or in an accelerated format.
Core Courses in an MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management
The curriculum for a Sustainability and Environmental Management MBA specialization blends business leadership with environmental science expertise through courses such as:
- Sustainable Business Strategy & Corporate Responsibility
- Environmental Law & Regulatory Compliance
- Renewable Energy Management & Clean Technologies
- ESG Reporting & Corporate Sustainability Metrics
- Sustainable Supply Chain & Circular Economy
- Climate Change Policy & Carbon Footprint Reduction
- Green Finance & Sustainable Investment Strategies
- Global Environmental Impact & Conservation Management
Many programs also incorporate sustainability consulting projects, including real-world case studies in corporate sustainability reporting, carbon emission reduction strategies, and renewable energy initiatives. Some students complete internships with sustainability-focused corporations, environmental NGOs, or government agencies to gain hands-on experience before graduation.
What Career Options Do I Have with an MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management?
A Sustainability and Environmental Management MBA specialization prepares graduates for leadership roles in corporate sustainability, environmental consulting, and renewable energy industries. Common job titles include:
- Sustainability Manager – Leads corporate sustainability programs and ESG reporting initiatives.
- Environmental Consultant – Advises companies on sustainable business practices and environmental compliance.
- Renewable Energy Project Manager – Oversees clean energy initiatives, such as wind and solar projects.
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Director – Develops and implements corporate sustainability strategies.
- Green Finance Analyst – Manages investment portfolios focused on sustainable and environmentally responsible businesses.
Salary Expectations
Salaries for MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management graduates vary based on industry, experience, and expertise. According to BLS and Deloitte, sustainability professionals with an MBA typically earn:
- Sustainability Manager – $110,000 – $170,000
- Environmental Consultant – $100,000 – $160,000
- Renewable Energy Project Manager – $120,000 – $190,000
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Director – $105,000 – $180,000
- Green Finance Analyst – $115,000 – $200,000
Take the Next Step Toward a Leadership Role in Sustainability
An MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management provides the expertise needed to lead corporate sustainability efforts, develop green business strategies, and drive environmental initiatives. Whether you want to manage sustainability programs, implement climate policies, or oversee renewable energy investments, this degree will give you the knowledge, skills, and network to achieve your career goals.
Explore top-ranked MBA in Sustainability and Environmental Management programs today and start advancing your career.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Sustainability & Environmental Management Careers. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/
- Deloitte. (2023). Sustainability & Corporate Responsibility Business Report. Retrieved from https://www2.deloitte.com/