School of Business

Sustainability in studies at the School of Business

Sustainability perspectives are integrated into all studies across our master’s programme selection, but we also offer programmes that have a special focus on sustainability. Becoming a business sustainability expert is an excellent way to start building your path towards a position where you can make an impact.

Our motto, "Better business, better society," sums up our belief that businesses play a crucial role in transitioning towards more sustainable societies. There is a growing demand for sustainability experts, and business schools are at the forefront of educating specialists and decision-makers who are promoting a more sustainable future.

At the School of Business, you have the chance to study sustainability on many levels. We offer master’s programmes like Creative Sustainability and Sustainable Entrepreneurship that are fully focused on general and discipline-specific sustainability. Additionally, we integrate sustainability into all our other programmes, so you can deep-dive into your favourite subject without compromising sustainability practices. You also have the option to combine both sustainability-focused and regular courses, with minor and elective studies.

Below are some master's programmes that have a special focus on sustainability. If you dream of having a career where you can make an impact, keep reading!

Creative Sustainability, Master of Science (Economics and Business Administration)

The Creative Sustainability (CS) programme provides students with the skills and knowledge to address pressing global sustainability challenges through business. Students with different backgrounds are united by the creative solutions, hands-on methodologies and shared values that characterise the programme. Graduates are well-prepared for leadership positions that require harnessing business understanding to reach the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Aalto Business students browsing course books around a table

Sustainable Entrepreneurship, Master of Science (Economics and Business Administration)

Get the tools to lead sustainable business ventures – and join the race to solve some of the world’s most urgent problems!

Two students discussing in the School of Business building.

Strategic management in a changing world, Master of Science (Economics and Business Administration)

Strategic Management in a Changing World is a unique Master’s programme that teaches students how to develop effective strategy in a rapidly changing world. Graduates are analytical decision-makers who can identify valuable business opportunities by evaluating of complex global megatrends such as sustainability, digitalization, and globalization. To action these new opportunities, the programme teaches students how to bring an entrepreneurial mindset into their organizations.

A student and an assistant professor on Aalto University campus in Otaniemi

People Management and Organizational Development, Master of Science (Economics and Business Administration)

The Master’s Programme in People Management and Organizational Development
provides students with expert knowledge and the analytical, communication and teamworking skills needed to help organizations to develop their operations successfully and sustainably. Upon graduation students work in expert and leadership roles in the fields of human resource management and organizational development. The programme further offers students a unique chance to complete a double degree programme with the University of Queensland (AU) or University of South Carolina (US). The programme is run in close collaboration with business, public organizations and NGOs. Thus, the programme offers students the latest knowledge in people management and organizational development in rapidly changing world of work and organizations.

Two Aalto University business students on campus in Otaniemi.
Get a degree in business

Sustainability is integrated into bachelor’s and master’s level studies

In our bachelor's programs, the learning goals include the ability to analyse and develop companies and other organisations. The students learn to consider aspects such as economy, ethics, diversity and equity, as well as society and global sustainability.

Our master’s programmes share common learning goals that are designed to ensure that students gain a deep understanding of their field of specialisation, including how to address sustainability challenges related to the environment, economy, and society. As a business student, you will cultivate skills in recognising and analysing challenges and business opportunities tied to sustainable development. You can also learn to think creatively and identify new opportunities for sustainable growth.

Additionally, Aalto University offers a wide range of minors that are open to students from all fields. As an Aalto student, you can take courses from various fields, enabling you to become a sustainability professional with a multidisciplinary perspective.

Sustainability at the School of Business

Sustainability is one of the four School of Business key strategic initiatives

Professor Minna Halme: Business schools play a key role in solving sustainability challenges.

Professor Minna Halme. Photographer: Veera Konsti.
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