Why choose a Postgraduate Certificate?
Sustainability is transforming the way businesses operate, and professionals who can drive real impact are more in demand than ever, a topic explored by Dr Theo Hacking, Director of Postgraduate Education at CISL in his blog.
The Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainable Business (PCSB) and Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainability Leadership for the Built Environment (PCSLBE) at the University of Cambridge equip ambitious professionals with the expertise to embed sustainability within organisations, supply chains, and markets – all while remaining in full-time work.
A programme designed for impact
The Postgraduate Certificates are Master’s-level qualifications, awarded by the University of Cambridge following a rigorous academic process. They are tailored for working professionals, ensuring accessibility with flexible learning formats:
- Blended format: A mix of online learning and two immersive residential workshops in Cambridge, offering a unique opportunity to be part of the Cambridge experience.
- Fully online format: Designed for those who prefer a fully remote learning option while benefiting from the same academic depth and industry relevance.
Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainable Business
Available as both a blended and fully online format
Equivalent to 1/3 of a Master’s degree, part-time over 9 months (blended) or a minimum of 12 months (online)
Explore embedding sustainability within organisations, finance, or across value chains, with practical assignments and a group project.
Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainability Leadership for the Built Environment
Available as blended format
Equivalent to 1/3 of a Master’s degree, part-time over 10 months (blended)
Explore the importance of building knowledge and leadership skills to drive real change in the built environment sector through multiple professions and disciplines working together.
Why choose a Postgraduate Certificate?
Achieve a Master’s-level qualification in less than a year: Shorter than a full Master’s, with a manageable workload and without the need for a dissertation.
Balance work & study: This part-time programme ensures professionals can advance their careers without stepping away from employment.
Immerse yourself in Cambridge: The residential workshops offer a rare opportunity to engage with peers, network, and be part of the University’s inspiring environment whilst the fully online programme bring Cambridge to your doorstep with students benefitting from access to Cambridge academics, resources and alumni Network.
Progression pathways: For the Sustainable Business programmes, alumni can advance to a Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Business or take the accelerated track to the Master of Studies in Sustainability Leadership. For the Sustainability Leadership for the Built Environment programmes, alumni can progress onto the full Master of Studies programme.
What sets this programme apart?
Academic Excellence & Accreditation |
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Tailored & Rigorous Learning Experience |
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Diverse & Collaborative Community |
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Practical Impact & Real-World Relevance |
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Flexible Learning for Professionals |
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Cambridge Immersion & Global Access |
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Choosing the right programme
- If you want a flexible, academically rigorous qualification with the option to progress to a Master’s degree, the Postgraduate Certificate is your best option.
- If you're looking for a fully accredited Master’s degree with advanced leadership training and in-depth research, the Master of Studies is the most comprehensive choice.
- If you need a short-term, foundational course, CISL’s 8-week online courses offer deep insights into sustainability across industries, all with flexible study options. Note these short courses are not credit bearing from the University of Cambridge.
Each programme is designed to support professionals in driving meaningful sustainability transformation, with academic expertise, real-world application, and peer networking opportunities at every level.