Our level 7 Certificate of Credit in Sustainable Business Management is a 20-credit module providing critical knowledge and understanding of the corporate sustainability challenge facing organisations as well as the skills required to drive the improvement in organisational culture and environmental performance resulting in more sustainable, future-fit businesses.
The module, which has been developed with input from the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA), is suitable for intending and existing environmental management professionals seeking to expand their knowledge base to include the principles of sustainable business practice. Business managers without a sustainability background or qualification can also benefit from this module.
Whilst this module is an opportunity for environmental practitioners to enhance their CPD and add to their professional portfolio, it is also an excellent opportunity to experience our IEMA-accredited online Sustainability and Environmental Management MSc before making a commitment to study the full programme.
By completing this module, you will be able to critically evaluate the changing role of businesses in a sustainable world, develop programmes to achieve sustainable change and make a business case for financial investment in such programmes. You will also gain a critical understanding of the role of communication, effective stakeholder engagement and reporting in sustainable business management.
Accredited by CIWEM, giving you free student membership
This programme is accredited by the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM).
Whilst enrolled on this module you can enjoy free student membership to the CIWEM that allows you to:
- Keep up to date with the latest best-practice knowledge through their member’s magazine, policy documents and technical journals
- Build your professional network through free events and local branches
- Enhance your career prospects through professional recognition of your qualification
The CIWEM will support the development of the skills and qualities that employers are looking for, providing you with opportunities to showcase your talents.
Upon completion of this course, you will be eligible to register for graduate membership of CIWEM.
Delivery from experienced academics
We have many years of experience in the delivery of environmental courses online which means you can expect the highest standards of teaching and education. Our team of tutors, made up of research-active academics and practising sustainability professionals will guide you through the module, providing regular feedback to ensure you stay on track.
You will also have access to a dedicated online learning adviser who will be on hand to support you with pastoral and non-academic matters throughout your studies.
We will advise you of your study plan when you are invited to enrol.
Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.
Pace of study
We recommend about 20 hours of study per week to complete one 20-credit module over a 10-week trimester.
There will be 1/2 virtual classrooms over the 10 week trimester and if you are unable to attend you will be able to download the session to view in your own time.
Assessment method
This course is assessed through 100% coursework with a range of methods, such as essays, research reports, presentations, group work and practical reports.
Student support and guidance
Whilst we encourage our students to become independent, life-long learners, we also recognise that offering the right support and guidance will help you to achieve your goals. There is a wealth of support available to you at the University, from your dedicated Personal Tutor and Online Learner Advisor, through to our:
All these services, and more, are available to you as an online student at the University of Derby.
You will require a good first degree in a related subject. Applicants with professional qualifications or relevant experience can also apply.
English language qualifications
If English is not your first language you will need an English language qualification. For this course you will need at least one of the following:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System) 6.0
- TOEFL 550 (paper based) 213 (computer based) or 80 (internet based)
- Pearson Test of Academic English: 51
- Cambridge Advanced Certificate: Pass
- London Tests of English: we accept level 4 for undergraduate courses
- International GCE O-level English Language: Grade C
- International GCSE English/English as a Second Language: Grade C
Find out more about our English language requirements
‡2024/25 for new entrants
Starting between September 2024 and August 2025.
| | Per 20 credits | Modules | Cost |
|---|
| UK/EU/International |
£1,000 |
1 |
£1,000 |
2025/26 for new entrants
Starting between September 2025 and August 2026.
| | Per 20 credits | Modules | Cost |
|---|
| UK/EU/International |
£1,055 |
1 |
£1,055 |
About your fees
Prices are correct for the year of entry shown. These are subject to annual increase in subsequent academic years.
How to apply
Please look at our application deadlines before you apply.
Apply directly to the University.
Apply now
For support with completing your application, view our guide to the application process.
Documents to support your application
In order for your application to be assessed, you will need to provide the following documents when you apply:
- Official photo identification such as a passport or driving licence
- Current CV
- Copies of certificates and transcripts or a letter of testimony for previous qualifications*
*Documents not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation by a professional translator/translation company. Each translation must contain:
- Confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document
- The date of the translation
- The full name and signature of the translator, or an authorised official of the company
- The translator’s contact details
A list of approved translators can be found on the UK Government website.
Please note: failure to submit any documentation when requested, may result in your application being withdrawn.
Application deadlines
All of our online courses have set start dates throughout the year. We require time to review your application and get back to you with a response before your course starts. Take a look at information regarding applying for an online course to see full details of deadlines and term dates.
This Certificate of Credit can act as an ideal CPD for those working in sustainability and environmental management. It will provide you with the knowledge and skills required to embed sustainability within the value chain of organisations.
Options for further CPD
It is important for environmental professionals and practitioners to stay up to date with the latest trends and developments within the industry through continued professional development.
Those looking to further enhance their CPD within sustainability and environmental management can continue their learning with another one of our Sustainability and Environmental Certificate of Credit stand-alone modules:
Progress onto a masters degree
The 20 credits at level 7 gained from this Certificate of Credit can be transferred as RPL (recognition of prior learning) on to a relevant masters degree, subject to meeting all other admission criteria.
The 20 credits from this stand-alone module can be used towards module exemptions onto our online MSc Sustainability and Environmental Management.
Utilise our Careers and Employment Service
Whilst you are a student at the University of Derby, and for 3 years after you graduate, our Careers and Employment Service can assist you with job search advice, CV creation, workshops and events, as well as one-to-one appointments with employment advisers to help with career planning and interview preparation.
