In India, ESG courses are rapidly mushrooming, for much of a focus on responsible business. Companies and investors are shifting to sustainability. Such courses provide practical implementation of ESG principles in finance, risk, and corporate decisions. Many of the leading institutes in India now confer certification in ESG for students and professionals to build careers in fields like ESG analysis, sustainability consulting, and impact investing. Such certifications will enhance employment avenues and fulfil the growing needs of industries such as banking, capital market accommodation, and corporate governance, increasingly requiring personnel trained in ESG.
What is ESG and Why Does it Matter?
ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. These are three of the numerous key performance indicators used to track the sustainability of a business. Let us understand each part:
- Environmental: Climate change, pollution, energy consumption and waste all fall under this category.
- Social: It examines labor rights, community impact, diversity and safety.
- Governance: This pertains to business ethics, transparency, compliance and leadership.
ESG scores for companies are based on these areas today. A strong ESG score makes it easier for a company to receive higher investments, establish trust and comply with global regulations. No wonder many Indian companies are looking to have ESG-trained employees.
Online ESG Courses
Online ESG courses offer the flexibility to learn at your own pace while gaining industry-relevant skills. These are ideal for beginners and working professionals who want to upskill or pivot into ESG roles.
Online Courses Available in India
Online ESG courses in India offer flexible and accessible learning options for students and professionals. These courses help build strong foundational knowledge in sustainability, ESG risks, and corporate responsibility.
Online Courses Swayam 2.0
- Course Title: From Theory to Practice: Implementing ESG and Sustainability in Business.
- Platform: Swayam 2.0, a government-backed MOOC portal.
- Who Can Apply: Open to students, academicians, and working professionals.
- Features:
- Developed by Indian experts for the local context.
- Includes assignments and real-life ESG case studies.
- Free to enroll, certification available at nominal cost.
ProIndia
- Courses Offered: Various ESG certifications for students and professionals.
- Content:
- Introduction to ESG framework.
- ESG policy integration and compliance.
- Speciality: Focuses on both corporate and regulatory ESG training.
Plutus Education—ESG Certification Course
- Provided by: Plutus Education
- Mode: Online (Live + Recorded Sessions)
- Duration: 2 Months
- Certificate: Yes
- Course Fees: ₹1,20,000 approx.
- Focus: ESG in Indian financial markets, SEBI norms, BRSR reporting, and sustainable investing practices with real case studies.
Coursera
- Courses: ESG Fundamentals, ESG investing, sustainability metrics.
- Universities: Duke University, University of Michigan, and more.
- Duration: Self-paced, ranging from 4 to 12 weeks.
- Certifications: Shareable certificates.
- Ideal For:
- Beginners who want global exposure.
- Professionals exploring ESG investing or corporate sustainability.
IMD – International Institute for Management Development
- Course Name: Sustainability for Business: ESG Fundamentals.
- Audience: Business leaders and corporate strategists.
- Features:
- Practical modules focused on ESG risks and growth opportunities.
- Industry examples from global corporations.
- Delivery: Online with flexible scheduling.
Duke University (via Coursera)
- Offers an exclusive ESG for AI course.
- Focus: How artificial intelligence intersects with ESG compliance.
- Suitable for tech professionals entering ESG domains.
Global Institute of Health Science (GIHS)
- ESG Certification: Focused on healthcare and environmental management.
- Ideal for:
- Medical professionals.
- Hospital administrators transitioning into sustainable healthcare.
SGS India
- Services Offered: ESG advisory, training, and certification.
- USP: Custom ESG training for corporate teams.
- Certification is valid for compliance and corporate audits.
Certificate Programs
These programs are longer than MOOCs and are issued by universities or certified institutions. They are perfect for learners seeking a deeper foundation and academic recognition.
ESG Certificate Courses in India
ESG certificate courses in India provide structured, in-depth training on sustainability and governance practices. These programs are ideal for learners seeking academic recognition and career advancement in the ESG domain.
GD Goenka University
- Program: 6-month Certificate in ESG and Sustainability.
- Curriculum:
- Environmental laws in India.
- CSR compliance.
- Governance frameworks.
- Recognition: University-issued certificate is useful for the Indian job market.
IGMPI (Institute of Good Manufacturing Practices India)
- Program: Certificate in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG).
- Audience: Professionals from the pharmaceuticals, food, and biotech sectors.
- Key Modules:
- ESG reporting standards.
- Supply chain compliance.
NISM & Crisil Certified ESG Risk Analyst
- Nature: Specialized program focusing on ESG risk assessment and application.
- Offered by: National Institute of Securities Markets and CRISIL.
- Focus:
- Quantitative ESG risk metrics.
- ESG impact on financial modeling.
- Job Fit: Ideal for finance professionals, investment analysts, and risk consultants.
Corporate Finance Institute (CFI)
- Program: ESG Certificate Program.
- Global Recognition: Accepted by MNCs and consulting firms.
- Tools Covered:
- ESG scorecards.
- ESG data analytics.
EFFAS (European Federation of Financial Analysts Societies)
- Program: Certified ESG Analyst (CESGA).
- International Acceptance: Widely respected in the finance sector.
- Best For: Investment professionals and fund managers looking to master ESG investing.
Professional Certifications in ESG
For those aiming at senior roles or global careers in ESG, professional certifications offer credibility and in-depth knowledge.
ESG Professional Certifications in India
ESG professional certifications in India are designed for individuals aiming for leadership roles in sustainability and corporate governance. These credentials offer global recognition and advanced expertise in ESG strategies and reporting.
CFA Institute
- Program: Certificate in ESG Investing.
- International Scope: Accepted by financial firms worldwide.
- Includes:
- ESG integration into investment analysis.
- Ethical implications of ESG decisions.
- Level: Intermediate to advanced.
Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards
- Focus: ESG sustainability reporting.
- Modules:
- GRI framework.
- Stakeholder engagement.
- Job Fit: Reporting professionals and compliance officers.
FSA® Credential by IFRS Foundation
- Certification: Fundamentals of Sustainability Accounting.
- Global Benchmark: Used by top financial institutions.
- Key Subjects:
- ESG materiality mapping.
- Sustainability in financial disclosures.
IICA Certified ESG Professional: Impact Leader Programme
- Offered by: Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs.
- Comprehensive Training:
- Policy-level ESG decision-making.
- Corporate social responsibility (CSR) law compliance.
- Target Group: ESG leaders, public sector officers, and CSR heads.
ESG Certification and Career Prospectus
ESG certification provides you with the skills to do ESG-related jobs. These jobs are growing rapidly, especially in finance, consulting and sustainability roles. Firms hiring such ESG-certified executives are Tata, Infosys, HDFC, Deloitte, and PwC. You can also work for global companies and ESG rating agencies. If you plan a career in green finance, carbon trading, CSR or policy, then getting ESG certification is a good idea.
Benefits of ESG Certification
- Shows you know international ESG standards
- Makes you the stand-out applicant for the job
- Boosts your resume
- Unlocks more careers for you in the best companies
- Pays well and job security is offered
Best Career Positions Following ESG Certification
- ESG Analyst
- Sustainability Consultant
- ESG Risk Manager
- ESG Reporting Specialist
- ESG Investment Advisor
ESG Course – Fees, Duration, and Eligibility in India
ESG course fees and duration in India are based on the type of course, the institute and the level of the program. You may apply if you are a student or if you work in finance, HR or CSR. There are many ESG courses online that can be studied at one’s own pace. This benefits working people or students in college. Options range from short online courses to executive programs.
| Course Type | Duration | Course Fees |
| Online Certificate (Coursera) | 4-6 weeks | Subscription-based |
| Executive Programs (IIM, XLRI) | 2-5 months | INR 81,000 to INR 1,05,000, excluding GST |
| Diploma / PG courses | 6-12 months | ₹75,000 – ₹2,00,000 |
Eligibility for ESG Certification Courses
- For the maximum number of online courses: 12th or graduation.
- For the executive programs: Graduation + Work Experience
- For PG Diploma: Graduation in any discipline
How to Become an ESG Analyst in India?
One of the best jobs in this space is that of the ESG analyst. This job is the target of a lot of graduates and professionals because of its high salary and global demand. You can also work your way into this field with a good ESG certification course. These programs provide you with the technical and soft skills necessary for this field.
What Does an ESG Analyst Do?
- Collect and analyze ESG data.
- Monitor Company ESG Compliance
- Write ESG and sustainability reports
- Collaborate with finance and strategy teams
- Assist in lowering the carbon footprint & social risk
Skills Needed for ESG Analyst Position
- Excellent knowledge of ESG frameworks (GRI, SASB, BRSR)
- Financial analysis skills
- Ability to write reports and make presentations
- Pre-level Language of the Bicycle / Basic data analysis (Excel, Power BI)
ESG Analyst Salary in India
- Entry Level: ₹6–8 LPA
- Mid Level: ₹10–15 LPA
- Senior Positions: Over ₹20 LPA
How to Choose the Best ESG Course for You?
The right ESG course for you will depend on your background, goals, and budget. If you’re a newcomer, begin with discounted ESG online courses. If you’re working, look at executive programs that accommodate your schedule. Here’s how to select one:
Information to Confirm Before Applying
- Course Content: Does It Include ESG Frameworks and Tools?
- Certification: Find out whether you would receive a certificate of completion
- Faculty: Explore the teachers and their backgrounds.
- Type: Live classes or self-paced formats available.
- Tuition: For different platforms
- Professional Development: Seek job or placement support
ESG Courses in India FAQs
1. What are ESG courses and why are they important?
ESG courses teach sustainable business practices covering Environment, Social, and Governance aspects. They are crucial as Indian companies align with global sustainability standards.
2. Who should enroll in ESG courses?
Students, finance professionals, CSR executives, and sustainability enthusiasts can benefit. These courses help in gaining expertise in responsible business practices.
3. Are ESG courses available online in India?
Yes, many institutions like IIMs, NSE Academy, and platforms like Coursera offer online ESG certifications suitable for Indian learners.
4. What is the duration of ESG courses in India?
Courses can range from a few weeks to 6 months. Duration depends on the course type—introductory, professional, or executive level.
5. What are the career options after ESG certification?
You can work as an ESG Analyst, Compliance Officer, or Sustainability Consultant in corporations, banks, and consulting firms. Demand is growing rapidly in India.
