Undergraduate Diploma in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) in Organisations

For Knowledge:

At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:

• Navigate key sustainability concepts and trends and apply them in different contexts
• Contribute to the planning and implementation scenarios focused on incorporating ESG into strategic plans, operational processes, and daily decision-making for different management roles
• Become proficient in monitoring and assessing progress toward ESG targets
• Contribute to sustainable business practices and drive positive outcomes in their respective organisations
• Make use of data analytics to gain insights into ESG impacts and trends
• Evaluate how sustainability can be integrated into an organisation’s design and core business processes
• Carry out collaborations with external stakeholders to further promote a sustainable culture

At the end of the programme, the learner will be able to:

• Explain the historical development and significance of ESG principles in the context of Europe and Malta
• Identify key ESG concepts and their relevance to sustainable business practices
• Discuss the evolution of ESG frameworks and standards
• Describe the roles and responsibilities of managers and professionals in promoting ESG within an organisation
• Recognise and examine the impact of leadership and decision-making on ESG initiatives
• Identify strategies for integrating ESG considerations into organisational culture
• Gather and organise ESG-related data using appropriate metrics
• Develop formal reporting systems to communicate ESG performance and compliance
• Apply ESG data to identify and manage risks and opportunities within an organisation
• Explain the role of change management principles in overcoming resistance and fostering a culture of sustainability
• Evaluate the progress of ESG initiatives and adjust strategies as needed

For Skills:

By the end of the programme, the learner will be able to:

• Analyse historical ESG developments and their impact on contemporary business practices
• Apply knowledge of fundamental ESG concepts and their relevance
• Integrate knowledge from diverse fields to address ESG challenges effectively
• Assume leadership roles and responsibilities in driving ESG initiatives within organisations
• Effectively communicate the importance of ESG principles to diverse stakeholders
• Develop strategies for aligning ESG with organisational goals and values
• Make use of the appropriate tools and methods to manage and evaluate ESG data
• Create ESG reports that comply with standards and effectively communicate performance
• Utilise ESG data to identify, assess, and mitigate environmental and social risks
• Develop and implement effective change management strategies for ESG integration
• Address resistance and challenges during the ESG implementation process
• Communicate and present ideas, problems, solutions, work, and findings effectively, verbally or in writing, to peers, lecturers, and specialist and non-specialist audiences (Communication skills)
• Collect, organise, manage, and interpret ESG data effectively, ensuring data quality and reliability and informing decision-making. (Digital skills)
• Navigate through the online learning platform to find, download, and upload assignments, discussion boards, literature, tutorials, etc. (Digital skills)

Prerequisites

Candidates who apply for this course will possess:

• A qualification at MQF Level 4 (one ‘A’ Level or equivalent in any subject) and a pass in English Language and Mathematics at MQF Level 3 (‘O’ Level or equivalent)
• In the case of students who do not possess all the formal required academic qualifications, then the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process could be applied such that if evidence of equivalent learning is found then the applicant could still be accepted in the course. Such an RPL process will subject applicants to an interview held with a board of experts within the field, chosen specifically by IDEA Academy, so as to verify their experiences and prior learning
• Students whose first language is not English and do not possess an ‘O’ level pass in the English Language will be required to demonstrate English language capability at IELTS level 6.0 or equivalent

Target Audience

• Individuals seeking to advance their academic and professional knowledge in ESG
• Individuals wanting to incorporate and implement ESG practices and sustainability within their organisations
• Experienced professionals working in industries such as insurance and banking who would like to gain a solid knowledge and skill set relating to ESG regulations, standards, and practices

Career Paths

ESG principles are typically managed and overseen by a combination of entities within and outside of organisations. The roles and responsibilities vary depending on the organisation’s size, structure, and industry. This program will prove to be useful in entities and roles involved in managing ESG principles such as the following:

• Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) or ESG officer
• Sustainability committees
• Investors and shareholders
• Regulatory bodies
• ESG rating agencies
• Internal ESG teams
• External consultants and advisers
• Industry associations

Modules

You are required to complete all 4 compulsory modules (60 ECTS) to fulfil the requirements of this Undergraduate Diploma.

How you’ll be assessed

The method of assessment is assignment-based.

The course comprises:

• Lectures per module depending on the number of ECTS
• 3-hour lectures (evening)
• Guided learning, presentations, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos
• Self-study hours comprise research, reading, and assignment work

IDEA College is Malta’s largest private further education institution focused on cultivating future leaders through specialized and accredited courses. With a philosophy centred around the students, IDEA College designs its part-time courses to seamlessly integrate into the personal and professional schedules of its attendees.

The curriculum is deeply rooted in industry needs, equipping students with practical skills and knowledge essential for success in their careers. The Academy distinguishes itself with personalized attention, access to expert mentors, an extensive resource library, and flexible payment options.

IDEA College offers a diverse range of programs, from introductory courses to advanced degrees from MQF/EQF level 4 all the way through Doctorate programs, all within a supportive, student-first environment.