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Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL)

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 explores in his blog.

The Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainable Business (PCSB) at the University of Cambridge equips 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

PCSB is a Master’s-level qualification, awarded by the University of Cambridge following a rigorous academic process. It is tailored for working professionals, ensuring accessibility with flexible learning formats:

  • Blended format: A mix of online learning and two immersive residential workshops in Cambridge focused on either an organisational or value chains stream, 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.

 

What sets this programme apart?

Academic Excellence & Accreditation

  • A Cambridge Postgraduate Qualification
  • Achieve a Master’s-level qualification in just 9 months
  • Progression pathways to complete the full Master’s programme

Tailored & Rigorous Learning Experience

  • A combination of industry practice and academic research
  • Tailored teaching for each cohort
  • 1:1 Supervision

Diverse & Collaborative Community

  • Highly diverse cohorts
  • Collaborative research for sustainability impact

Practical Impact & Real-World Relevance

  • Immediate real-world application
  • Assignments relevant to your organisational challenges providing immediate business benefit

Flexible Learning for Professionals

  • Balance work & study
  • Flexible progression aligned with personal circumstances

Cambridge Immersion & Global Access

  • Immerse yourself in the Cambridge experience
  • Access to Cambridge hosted events and international network gatherings via the alumni Network

 

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 in Sustainable Business (PCSB) 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 in Sustainability Leadership (MSt) 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.

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.

Applications for blended Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainable Business and Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainability Leadership for the Built Environment starting in 2026 open in September 2025.

Ready to lead sustainability in business? Take the next step.