Introduction to ESG

Module Description

This module provides students with a comprehensive understanding of ESG principles and their historical context, emphasising the importance of this knowledge for Europe and Malta today.

Learners will be exposed to Key Sustainability Trends and Concepts, the Sustainable Development Goals, fundamental sustainability principles and trends, including environmental conservation, social responsibility, and corporate governance. Other aspects involve how society, including consumers, investors, and governments, respond to ESG considerations.

Students will navigate the Growth of ESG and Changing Landscape and discuss how ESG has evolved from a niche concept to a key driver of investment decisions and business strategies. Students will also become familiar with the implications for Corporate Action on E, S, G and how companies are incorporating ESG considerations into their operations, policies, and decision-making processes.

The module explores different stakeholder perspectives and expectations regarding ESG, including those of investors, employees, customers, local communities, and NGOs. It emphasises the importance of stakeholder engagement for successful ESG integration. Furthermore, students will learn about how ESG practices can vary across regions and countries due to cultural, legal, and regulatory factors.

Leading countries or regions in ESG practices and the potential for global harmonization of ESG standards will also be discussed. The module concludes with case studies illustrating how companies successfully implement(ed) ESG practices, showcasing their journey, challenges, strategies, and measurable impacts of ESG concepts in action. Through this exercise, therefore, students gain a well-rounded understanding of the importance and implications of ESG in contemporary business practices.

Overall, this module provides a comprehensive overview of sustainability trends, the ESG landscape, and practical insights into corporate sustainability, preparing students to navigate the complex world of ESG with a deep understanding of its historical context and contemporary relevance.

Entry Requirements

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 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 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 programme 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

How you’ll be assessed

The course comprises:

• Evening classes for part-time courses.
• Classes held throughout the day for full-time courses.
• Guided learning, presentations, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos.
• Self-study hours comprising research, reading and assignment work.

Assessment

Assessment is carried out via two mandatory components:

• Modular Assessment
• Project Assessment

The programme includes different forms of assessment which allow for and promote students’ critical engagement. The formative and summative assessment tasks may include an in-class assignment and/or a home-based written assignment using diverse assessment tools which may take the form of online and in-class discussions, examinations, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.