Do you want to become a sustainable business leader? Check out these business schools with specialized master's degrees, social impact projects, and student clubs
The theme for Earth Day 2023 is ‘Invest in Our Planet’, which aims to shine the spotlight firmly on the accountability of governments, businesses, and everyone around the world to take action against the climate crisis.
The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) means the onus is certainly on the business world as companies must adapt to work towards carbon neutrality, implement responsible strategies, and meet new regulations.
If you want to be at the forefront of change, you’ll need to invest in your own development and education to become a sustainable leader.
So, where should you study your master’s degree if you want to gear up to make an impact?
Master’s degree programs for sustainable business leaders
More and more business schools around the world have adapted their curriculums, or even launched new programs designed to prepare the next generation of sustainable leaders.
The program teaches students about the complexities of sustainable transition and the key skills to deploy sustainable strategies and decarbonize business models. Core modules cover themes such as the responsible supply chain, energy procurement, green marketing, and responsible finance.
The dual degree program also involves experiential learning such as working on a business case with EY to brainstorm sustainable solutions, internships, and exchange semesters.
Dany Leroux, a current student on the program, chose to complete his exchange at BI Norwegian Business School, another school focused on preparing sustainable leaders with its Master in Sustainable Finance program.
“It was very interesting to hear even more perspectives from new professors on this subject. There is so much to be done for business to become sustainable,” says Dany.
Meanwhile, EDHEC Business School offers a Master’s in Climate Change and Sustainable Finance. Courses include Climate Change Economics, Designing Feasible Low-Carbon Transitions, and Climate-Aware Investing.
These master’s degrees will help provide you with a specialist skill set, and knowledge of the challenges the climate crisis poses to the business world, so you can launch your career with purpose.
Social impact projects during your master’s degree
Having extensive knowledge about sustainability in business is one thing, but as a sustainable business leader, you'll also be applying this knowledge in a high-pressure environment when tackling real challenges.
To help prepare you during your master’s degree, there will be opportunities for experiential learning and extracurricular projects.
In 2023, top European business schools—EDHEC Business School, ESMT Berlin, and POLIMI Graduate School of Management—teamed up to launch ‘INNOVA Europe’, a competition where students pitch innovative, entrepreneurial solutions to key environmental challenges.
Master’s degree students from each school can enter to win €5,000 and support from the academic incubators at each school—PoliHub, EDHEC Entrepreneurs, and Vali Berlin.
At ESMT Berlin, students on the Master in Global Management also take part in a compulsory social impact project working with a Corporate Social Responsibility department at a company, for an NGO, or on a social entrepreneurship venture.
Some master’s programs may also include an internship where you’ll be able to spend weeks gaining first-hand experience of social impact companies, or those making the transition.
During the dual master’s degree at NEOMA, Dany is currently participating in an internship with L'Oréal Group, working with the sustainable development team for the dermatological beauty division.
He has been tasked with helping manage various projects and organizing events aimed at minimizing the company’s negative environmental impact.
“Seeing how a big company operates has given me a broader vision of the actionable changes that can be made to make a company sustainable, as well as longer-term goals,” he says.
While studying the Master in Sustainability Management program at American University’s Kogod School of Business, Samantha Kenny undertook an internship with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). She was able to turn her internship into a full-time role as a senior program manager tackling food waste.
If you're itching to get out into the world and make an impact, projects such as these allow you to proactively contribute to climate action while learning how to lead this action in the future.
Business schools with student social impact student clubs
Tackling the climate crisis calls for strength in numbers; leaders who are aligned on their goals and know how to work together effectively.
At business school, you’ll be able to get involved in student organizations and meet like-minded people passionate about making an impact.
At UCL School of Management you’ll find the Sustainability Lab—a student-led initiative that organizes opportunities to network with industry professionals. It has recently also partnered with conservation charity the Wild Planet Trust for a project targeted at reducing the damaging effects of business on the environment.
The NetPositive Club at HEC Paris is also student-led and organizes an annual case competition where students can pitch to professionals as well as monthly events with industry speakers.
Opportunities like these are a great way to find out more about the careers in sustainability that are available to you when you graduate.
Whether your goal is to lead a company’s sustainable transition, work for a non-profit, or start your own social enterprise, studying a master's degree focused on sustainability and corporate social responsibility can help mould your passion into actionable change.
I graduated from the BBA program at EDHEC in 2021 and my time there was a mix of highs and lows. On the positive side, the practical experience gained through mandatory internships was invaluable. These opportunities provided real-world experience and helped me build a strong professional network.
The campus facilities are excellent, modern, and well-maintained.
Academically, however, I didn't really like all the subjects but it was still good.
So in general it was great for me and pushed me in my actual professional career.
Azia
Verified
10/06/2024
On Campus
I RECOMMEND!
First, I was quite hesitant at first about my choice of school because I was accepted into most of the good business schools. I first decided to join this school for its national ranking but even more for the ranking of the program which is the first in France. I absolutely do not regret my choice, because I found everything I was looking for without even leaving France. The first thing that interested me the most after joining the school was the diversity of the students and their mix, something that I look for because since I am on the English track there are a lot of international students. Concerning the courses there are some which are not at all interesting and others which are incredible but it all depends on tastes and then the advantage is that the courses are not always the same throughout the semester and years.
Lucas
Verified
10/06/2024
On Campus
Former student of the establishment
I am currently a product engineer at Société Générale after spending 4 years at EDHEC, in asset management and market finance. I have always been passionate about this industry and the finance market, and that is the only reason why I chose this specialization. My years at this school were very productive and very beneficial for my current career, because I made a lot of contacts, which is not surprising in business school. But also, because I was able to learn a lot of things and acquire a lot of skills thanks to those who were taught to us in class. We also had the opportunity to do internships, which meant that I had a lot of experience before launching professionally.
Quentin
Verified
14/06/2024
On Campus
quality program
To begin with, I would like to say that since I joined I have greatly appreciated this school. My level in English, mainly in addition to certain languages, has evolved considerably on the one hand thanks to our program in which we have hybrid subjects between English and French and then thanks to the students who come from so many different places and with whom Discussions are also like exercises. I also learned new things about a lot of culture, without even leaving my native country, and speaking of moving, the school offers a lot of opportunities, exchanges which are incredible, but which are on the other hand dependent on our educational level. For example, I had the chance to do an exchange in Sweden, a country I had never visited and the experience was memorable. And then, of course, I don't often dwell on it, but the materials are very good too, very homogeneous and well balanced.
Student
Verified
21/09/2024
On Campus
How EDHEC is Shaping My Future
Leaving Accra for Paris, I sought a world-class education that would prepare me for the global stage. EDHEC has exceeded my expectations, fostering a unique blend of practical expertise and international insight. Through hands-on learning and interactions with fellow students from diverse backgrounds, I've developed a sharper mind and a broader perspective, ready to tackle challenges in today's interconnected world
Yoann
Verified
17/03/2025
On Campus
How EDHEC helps me Relocate and Find Job in France
I am a Fall 2023 intake student at EDHEC Business School, pursuing an MSc in Marketing Management under the Business Management track. As a Chinese student with DALF C1-level French proficiency, I had high expectations for my business school experience—and EDHEC has met them all.
One of the highlights of my time at EDHEC has been its exceptional Career Service. Nearly every week, companies come to campus for networking events, recruitment sessions, and industry talks. Since I am particularly interested in the luxury industry, I was thrilled to see companies like Chanel, Porsche, and Louis Vuitton actively engaging with students. These opportunities played a crucial role in my job search, and I am grateful that I was able to secure a job in France after graduation, aligning perfectly with my initial career goals.
Beyond academics and career development, my EDHEC experience has been incredibly rewarding on a personal level. I have made wonderful friends from around the world, and one of my European classmates even invited me to celebrate Christmas with her family—a truly heartwarming experience.
Overall, EDHEC has provided me with a top-tier business education, strong career support, and a vibrant international community. I am truly grateful for this journey!
Ndeye Arame
Verified
18/03/2025
Online
Navigating EDHEC: Lessons, Growth, and Career
Reflecting on my time at EDHEC, my Master's experience has been a transformative journey that has shaped both my technical skills and my professional aspirations.
Pursuing an MSc in Financial Engineering has provided me with a rigorous academic foundation, practical exposure, and invaluable networking opportunities that have significantly contributed to my career development.
One of the most rewarding experiences during my time at EDHEC was the London Learning Expedition. This immersive experience allowed me to gain first-hand insights into the global financial markets and engage with industry professionals at some of the world's most renowned financial institutions. The sessions at J.P. Morgan, Société Générale, and S&P Global, among others, broadened my perspective on quantitative investment strategies, global markets and how to shape my career. The opportunity to interact with professionals and EDHEC alumni gave me a clearer understanding of career paths within market finance and reinforced my motivation to pursue a front-office role.
Another highlight of my academic journey was the lectures delivered by Professor Dominic O’Kane. His expertise in quantitative finance and Machine Learning provided deep insights into the complexities of financial markets. His ability to make complex concepts more accessible and engaging was particularly impactful.
Additionally, the hands-on approach in the program, particularly the assessments and projects in Python, significantly enhanced my technical skills. Being able to apply quantitative finance theories through coding not only strengthened my programming proficiency but also helped me develop a problem-solving mindset crucial for roles in trading, quantitative research, and structuring.
The alumni sessions were another aspect of the program that I truly valued. Engaging with former EDHEC students who have successfully navigated careers in market finance was inspiring. Their insights into industry trends, recruitment processes, and career progression provided me with a realistic outlook on what to expect post-graduation and how to position myself strategically in a competitive job market.
Overall, my time at EDHEC has been an enriching experience that has reinforced my passion for financial markets and quantitative finance. The combination of academic rigor, practical exposure, and professional networking has prepared me well for the next phase of my career. While challenges such as navigating a highly competitive environment and facing industry biases have been present, they have also strengthened my resilience and determination to succeed in market finance.
I leave EDHEC with a solid skill set, valuable industry insights, and a clear vision for my future career.
Pranav
Verified
25/03/2025
On Campus
Ideal Stepping Stone For Business Students
I joined EDHEC as a Grande Ecole student (Masters in Management) in 2021 opting for the gap year to enrich my work experience in Europe.
The EDHEC Alumni network is strong & diverse within Europe, allowing you to get a foot in the door of any industry you desire to enter. Personally, EDHEC alumni enlightened me on interesting professional opportunities that I couldn't have found scouring through job boards.
Another highlight of the BS is EDHEC Career's Centre, run by Florence Da Costa. The whole team of the Career Centre is highly engaged in maintaining an active relationship with the students, and have years of experience in helping students find professional opportunities in Europe. I used the help of the EDHEC Career Centre to help tweak my application package when I wasn't getting any interviews and evaluating the contract for my job offer when I did receive one.
Lastly, I enjoyed the practical focus of courses at EDHEC Business School. Every course had a practical component - be it analyzing a financial statement of a company or building a marketing strategy for a consumer goods giant's dishwashing tablets. No course is swamped by technical depth irrelevant to professional opportunities. Although you won't finish a course being a specialist, you will be a very handy generalist. I believe that's what most companies look for here.
Student
Verified
25/04/2025
On Campus
Very practical and inspiring
The courses are quite intense, providing both theoretical and practical knowledge to well prepare students for finance careers. The professors are all from academia and industries, offering valuable insights into finance industry.