By Tania Ellis
Academic or practical ESG education? Here’s a guide to help you choose the best programme for your ESG journey.
Have you ever wondered whether an academic or practical education is the best path for you in the field of ESG and sustainability?
As demand for skills in this area continues to grow, many professionals face this exact choice. But what’s the difference, and how does it impact your career and your company’s opportunities?
In this article, you’ll gain insight into the difference between academic and practical skills development, along with examples of how professionals across industries have accelerated their careers and business outcomes with a practical education in Sustainable Business Change Management.
Why Practical Skills in ESG Are Essential
As businesses and society increasingly focus on sustainability, having the right skills becomes critical. According to a survey by Lederne, only 15.7% of private sector leaders feel they have the competencies to meet the demands of green transformation.
This shows the significant need for continuing education—not just for leadership, but at all levels of an organisation.
However, education is about more than just understanding.
Companies are racing to adapt to the regulatory landscape of ESG and sustainability, needing to quickly turn compliance knowledge into tangible actions that create value for both society and the bottom line.
Knowledge Competencies vs Action Competencies
When enrolled in an academic programme, students demonstrate their acquired knowledge by referencing concepts, authors, and articles—you gain knowledge competencies. During a practical programme like the Sustainable Business Change Manager course, students demonstrate their knowledge by applying tools, templates, and analyses. With other words, you gain action competencies in addition to the acquired knowledge.
To get the most out of your learning and the fastest return on investment, knowledge and action competencies should go hand in hand:
| Knowledge Competencies | Action Competencies |
|---|---|
| Analytical skills to understand and analyse complex theories and challenges | Practical skills to perform concrete tasks and apply techniques in practice |
| Theoretical skills to apply and connect different theoretical approaches | Operational change management skills to lead and implement change processes |
| Strategic skills in change management to develop and evaluate strategies based on theory and research | Problem-solving skills to find and implement solutions to practical challenges |
| Critical skills to assess knowledge and arguments critically and communicate them clearly | Leadership skills to motivate and support others in carrying out changes in practice |
Navigating the ESG Education Jungle
For over 10 years, our Social Business Academy has offered the Sustainable Business Change Manager certification, a practical education recognised for its high quality and applicability by the hundreds of professionals who have completed the ESG programme.
When we first launched the programme, we were among the few on the market. Since then, the landscape has changed dramatically (thankfully!), and there are now numerous training and education options for professionals who contribute to the vital sustainable transition.
That’s why we often hear from professionals who are unsure of which option to choose and what sets different programmes apart.
Maybe you, too, find it difficult to navigate the jungle of competency development options? We’ve created a guide that might help you clarify your choice.
Get our guide with 14 criteria you should consider when choosing your education.
So, What Do You Need?
When exploring your education options, it’s essential to ask yourself:
- Do I need an in-depth understanding of specific topics like life cycle assessments or biodiversity?
- Or am I looking for a broader business understanding, where ESG and sustainability are integrated into daily operations?
- Do I need education to gain knowledge, an overview, and insight?
- Or do I need education to solve concrete tasks?
Read more about the practical mini MBA with certification – Sustainable Business Change Manager if you’re interested in sustainability education with a practical approach.
Why Choose a Practical ESG Education?
- Direct Return: A practical education offers quick returns by enabling you to turn theory into action, so you can solve real-world challenges for your business.
- Relevance to Your Everyday Work: Theory is directly linked to your current challenges, maximising the outcome.
- Increased Career Opportunities: Practical skills are in demand and can quickly improve your job prospects.
Real-World Case Studies: Practical Sustainability Education in Action
Below, leaders and specialists share how practical ESG education has played a pivotal role in their ability to create value for both their business and society.
Explore the many ways ESG, CSR, and sustainability are applied across industries, sectors, and disciplines.
Case Gallery
- Carina Hedemark, ESG Consultant
Carina used her ESG education to enhance her ability to advise companies on CSR strategies. Her updated knowledge of the ESG landscape has enabled her to address clients’ needs and support their business growth. Read full case. - Frank Buchmann, CEO
Frank has implemented data-driven solutions and strengthened value chain alliances through his education. His deep insight into logistics and sustainability has positioned Greenway Logistics as a leader in green logistics. Read full case. - Thandi Dyani, Consultant
Thandi combined Nordic design with southern sustainability principles through her education. Her ability to understand and apply different cultural perspectives has led to innovative solutions for her business. Read full case. - Kasia Bartosik Sørensen, Buyer
Kasia introduced sustainable projects in her company with her continuing education. She uses her new competencies to strengthen the company’s sustainability profile and explore new business opportunities. Read full case. - Signe Rasmussen, Career Mover
Signe transformed her career with the education, allowing her to specialise in CSR. She developed a strong personal career focus that combines both professional and personal growth. Read full case.
If you’re interested in sustainability education with a practical approach, read more about the practical mini MBA with certification – Sustainable Business Change Manager.
