Course Title: Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainability Leadership
TU Dublin is ranked #1 in Europe for Sustainability Education, and this Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainability Leadership is designed to help you accelerate your career and lead meaningful change in your organisation and community.
The Postgraduate Certificate in Sustainability Leadership is designed to equip current and aspiring managers with a comprehensive understanding of sustainability principles and trends and apply evidence-based sustainability tools to decision-making and stakeholders buy-in to lead incorporation of sustainability practices into business.
The participants will gain a systematic understanding of sustainability principles and sustainability literacy related to the UN SDGs, planetary boundaries, doughnut economics, just transition, and circular economy. The learners will also develop in-depth l awareness of the social and environmental challenges facing organisations and will critically reflect on issues such as organisational purpose, responsive innovation, embedding circular economy principles, systems & futures thinking and regulatory and reporting frameworks. Emphasis is also placed on developing communication and leadership skills so the business case for sustainability coupled with the most suitable strategies can to instigating action and meaningful change.
Will this course help advance my career?
Yes. This course equips you with the tools, insights, and network to lead on sustainability. Many graduates move into sustainability roles or are promoted within their organisations.
What will I learn?
You’ll gain a clear, practical understanding of the major sustainability challenges and opportunities shaping business today—from climate change and biodiversity loss to the shift toward a circular economy and resilient supply chains.
You’ll learn how to develop a best-practise sustainability strategy and deliver clear, impactful reporting—moving sustainability from a checkbox exercise to a core part of business strategy.
You’ll explore the role of AI in sustainability, learn to spot and avoid greenwashing, and stay ahead of fast evolving EU regulations like the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD).
Most importantly, you’ll build the leadership, communication, and systems-thinking skills needed to shape strategy, influence decisions, and bring others with you on the journey to real change.
What about practical, real-world experience?
This course is all about applied learning. You’ll work on a sustainability consultancy project, tackling real-world challenges faced by businesses and communities. You’ll also take part in the Transport for Ireland Smarter Travel Student Awards. Many students use this project to build their portfolio, transition into sustainability roles, or lead new initiatives within their own organisations.
Who will I learn from?
The Programme Coordinator is Dr. Ciarán O’Carroll (ciaran.ocarroll@tudublin.ie), previously a sustainability consultant with PwC, where he advised leading organisations on climate strategy and ESG reporting. Ciarán sits on the boards of Screen Ireland and the National Gallery of Ireland. He now brings that experience into the classroom, connecting cutting-edge sustainability thinking with real-world business practice.
If you’re considering applying or simply want to know more, feel free to reach out to Ciarán directly—he’d be delighted to hear from you and answer any questions you might have about the course.
Will I grow my network on this course?
Yes—and that’s one of the biggest benefits. You’ll meet a diverse, motivated network of sustainability leaders from across sectors. The course also features inspiring guest speakers, including business leaders, politicians, and climate activists, offering new perspectives and invaluable professional insights.
Candidates must hold a minimum second class honours degree (2.2) or higher or equivalent third level qualification in any discipline with a minimum of three years experience in a business or cognate management role.
The programme is part time with a blended delivery. In Semester 1, classes take place in evening times (usually Tuesdays and Thursdays) from 6pm. One of these will be in person (Aungier Street) and one online. In Semester 2, self-directed learning through business sustainability project is supported with 3 in-person workshops as well as online interactions.
Springboard Applications
This course is funded under the Springboard+ initiative in 2025. Applications should be made via the Springboard+ website, subject to meeting the eligibility criteria.
For further information, please contact the team at springboard@tudublin.ie.
Direct Applications
Applications for this course are now open.
For further information on the application process, please visit How To Apply.
Non-EU Students
Non-EU students, not resident in Ireland, are not eligible to apply for part time programmes that are delivered on-campus. Applications for part time courses that require on-campus attendance will not be processed and the application fee will not be refunded.
I believe that the fact that I was studying for the PG Cert resulted in my successful move to a sustainability role. Firstly, it gave me the confidence to pursue a sustainability role. But also, having a formal Sustainability Qualification helps to put you towards the top of the pile when competing for sustainability roles. I am sure that the PG Cert played a big part in helping to get my CV noticed. Thank you to TU Dublin for putting me on this path.
Claire Hyland (Thinkhouse) undertook her Business Sustainability Consultancy Project to explore how Thinkhouse could learn from academic research into the B Corp community to develop a post-certification strategy to positively influence its employees and clients to embrace the philosophy of B Corp. Thinkhouse is now at a verification stage and is looking forward to very soon joining the community of businesses that are leading a global movement for an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy.