MBA achieves ISEP sustainability accreditation | News

July 2026

University's MBA first in region to achieve ISEP sustainability accreditation

By Melanie Hall

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University College Birmingham's Master of Business Administration (MBA) has achieved accreditation from the Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP), making it the only MBA in the West Midlands region to offer dual accreditation in sustainability.

The recognition marks a significant milestone for the University's Business School and reflects the growing importance of sustainability in modern business leadership.

As organisations face increasing pressure to address environmental, social and governance (ESG) challenges, employers are seeking leaders who can embed sustainable thinking into strategy, decision-making and long-term organisational success.

The ISEP accreditation recognises that the University College Birmingham MBA equips students with the knowledge and practical leadership skills needed to meet those expectations.

Students on the MBA are also eligible for free student membership of ISEP, giving them professional recognition while they study, access to exclusive careers resources and networking opportunities, and a direct route into a global community of sustainability professionals.

Additionally, they will receive a graduate membership (GradISEP) qualification on completion of the MBA.

Bruce Morrison, Senior Lecturer and MBA Programme Lead, said: "Business leadership has changed dramatically over the past decade.

"Today's leaders must be able to balance commercial success with environmental responsibility, ethical decision-making and long-term resilience.

"Achieving ISEP accreditation is an important endorsement of our MBA because it recognises that sustainability is woven throughout the programme, rather than treated as a standalone topic. It demonstrates that our graduates are developing the capabilities organisations increasingly need."

ISEP is the UK's professional body for sustainability and environmental practice. Its independently quality-assured accreditation recognises programmes that develop the knowledge, skills and professional credibility valued by employers. Students studying the MBA also benefit from potential routes to professional membership and access to a wider sustainability network as they progress in their careers.

The accreditation builds on an MBA that was designed to prepare professionals for a rapidly evolving business landscape. Alongside developing strategic leadership skills, students graduate with a CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Leadership Practice, combining academic study with professional recognition.

The programme is delivered through University College Birmingham's innovative 2 Day Degree model, enabling students to study around existing work and personal commitments by attending campus on just two consecutive days each week. Flexible PGCert and PGDip routes are also available.

Rather than relying solely on traditional assessments, the MBA incorporates authentic learning through live projects, real-world business challenges and industry engagement, enabling students to apply leadership theory to practical organisational issues.

Bruce added: "Organisations are no longer simply looking for experienced managers; they're looking for adaptable leaders who can respond to complexity, embrace innovation and make decisions that create lasting value. This accreditation reinforces our commitment to developing exactly those kinds of leaders."

The achievement further strengthens University College Birmingham's reputation for delivering professionally recognised, career-focused business education and reflects the increasing importance of sustainability as a core leadership capability across every sector.

Apply for the MBA and read more about the innovative PG course in our blog.

Find out more about sustainability at University College Birmingham and how it is weaved into our campus, curriculum and community.