Sustainability business specialist (integrated degree)
Level 7 · Degree (Master’s)Business and administration 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This integrated degree apprenticeship at Level 7 trains sustainability specialists to lead organisations in developing and implementing strategies that reduce environmental impact and meet social responsibilities. Apprentices work across sectors, analysing sustainability performance, engaging stakeholders, and driving change at a senior level. It can lead to roles as a Head of Sustainability, Corporate Responsibility Director, or ESG Strategy Lead.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Environmental science, climate change, and planetary boundaries
ESG frameworks, sustainability reporting standards, and disclosure requirements
Carbon accounting, net zero strategies, and science-based targets
Social value, circular economy, and responsible supply chain management
Stakeholder engagement and communicating sustainability strategy
Business case development and embedding sustainability into corporate strategy
Research methods and evidence-based sustainability decision-making
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Develop and implement sustainability strategies and action plans
Calculate and report the organisation's carbon footprint
Engage internal and external stakeholders on sustainability goals
Produce sustainability reports aligned to recognised frameworks such as GRI
Identify and assess supply chain sustainability risks
Build business cases for sustainability investment and change
Monitor regulatory developments and advise on compliance requirements
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 7 (Degree (Master’s)) - roughly Master’s-degree level. Usually needs a relevant degree or Level 6 qualification, or significant experience.
What’s next: Leads into senior and chartered professional roles.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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