As we continue to experience the damaging effects of climate change, sustainability management has become an increasingly critical field in business. Companies need employees who can effectively preserve natural resources—and boost the businesses’ bottom line. A part-time MS in Sustainability Management program will equip you to do both, whether for your current organization or in an entirely new career path.
Sustainability management is a subfield of business that integrates environmental and social responsibility into an organization’s operations. It helps companies to ensure long-term profitability by conserving natural resources and lowering production costs.
As environmental concerns—and the cost of materials and labor—continue to grow, so does the field of sustainability management. By 2050, business’ need for green talent will have more than doubled, according to LinkedIn’s 2024 Global Green Skills Report.
That same report reveals existing demand is far outpacing supply: Between 2023 and 2024, global demand for green talent grew twice as quickly as supply.
Sustainability management professionals create and implement eco-friendly strategies to achieve financial success. They also ensure firms conform to federal, state, and local environmental regulations.
These professionals work across industries in a variety of analyst and consulting roles. Several of today’s most in-demand positions include:
Job responsibilities might include writing sustainability policies and procedures, generating GHG emissions reports, and raising stakeholders' awareness of sustainable practices.
The short answer: It allows professionals to grow their sustainability savvy without having to leave the workforce.
This benefits both working students and their employers by creating a direct pathway for experimental learning.
It also addresses a key challenge sustainability-minded business leaders have expressed:
"Time and time again, industry leaders have told us they urgently need to develop their workforce’s sustainability capabilities, but they can't afford to lose talented employees,” says Anderson. “Kogod’s program enables professionals to immediately apply new knowledge across various business functions including supply chain management, operations, and product development – the three business functions our research identified as needing sustainability expertise."
MSSM programs equip students with the management skills they need to ensure a company’s long-term viability.