-
22.10.2026

It is currently not possible to apply for this degree programme.
Bachelor of Arts in Business
part-time / 6 semesters / 180 ECTS
English
363.36 EUR
We designed our part-time bachelor degree programme for those who want to drive actual change and help companies and organisations to discover the “sweet spot” where ecological capacity, social responsibility and financial viability overlap. And doing so sets you on a career path that’s both impactful and fulfilling.
Sustainability Management is part of the IMC Business School and combines hands-on teaching with an international focus at IMC Krems.
Many companies – especially small and medium-sized enterprises – are eager to act on sustainability but often struggle with where to begin. Furthermore, stricter regulations from national and EU policies, combined with international CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) and ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) criteria, are heightening expectations across the board.
Our programme prepares you to bridge that gap. You’ll gain not only solid theoretical foundations in sustainability, CSR and ESG but also hands-on experience in developing and implementing real-world strategies: from circular product models, climate neutrality and gender equality plans to sustainability reports. With these tools, you’ll be ready to guide organisations and companies toward circularity, climate fitness and resilience.
But sustainability management goes far beyond the private sector: governments, NGOs, social businesses and international agencies are just as vital in shaping a greener, fairer future. This degree prepares you to work across sectors, helping you understand public policy, social impact, and how to mobilise international communities and networks for lasting change.
Guided by the principle of constructive alignment, our study programme combines a variety of learning formats to help you build strong methodological skills – from data analysis and project planning to life cycle analysis. At the same time, you’ll develop essential soft skills: leading diverse teams, resolving conflicts effectively and communicating across cultures. You’ll also gain insights into how digital tools like AI and emerging technologies can boost sustainability, like improving efficiency in resource use or supporting data-driven decision-making in climate and circularity strategies.
Still curious how we connect theory and practice in our classes? Take a look at the Cups for Climate project, which we co-developed with a company partner. In the study, we investigated the carbon footprint and resource consumption of both single-use and reusable cup systems at major events.
From the classroom to campus life: Our Mastodon feed shares what makes our programme unique – inspiring courses, events and voices from our students.
At IMC Krems, sustainability management isn’t just something we teach; it’s something we live. From reducing our own carbon footprint to promoting social responsibility on campus, we walk the talk. Take a look at our Sustainability Report to see how we apply the principles we teach. Because for us, sustainability doesn’t stop at the classroom door.
And for all your bright ideas about sustainability: At IMC Krems, you also have the opportunity to use our Founders Lab alongside your studies. There, students receive support in implementing their start-up ideas and are guided through potential business ventures. Start-up service at its best!
Remember the old saying that we cannot solve problems by using the same thinking that created them in the first place? That’s exactly where our programme begins. We offer a new perspective on business, one that goes beyond profit maximisation and embraces ecological and social responsibility. It’s about shifting from exploitation to stewardship and learning how to create value in ways that sustain both people and planet.
The curriculum provides an overview. Click on the individual courses for further information.
| Course | SWS | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| AccountingAccounting Details | 4 | 6 |
| Introduction to Circular EconomyIntroduction to Circular Economy Details | 3 | 6 |
| Management EssentialsManagement Essentials Details | 4 | 6 |
| Principles of SustainabilityPrinciples of Sustainability Details | 3 | 6 |
| Scientific Methods and AnalysisScientific Methods and Analysis Details | 3 | 6 |
| Course | SWS | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| Data and Decision MakingData and Decision Making Details | 4 | 6 |
| EconomicsEconomics Details | 4 | 6 |
| Future Skills I | 3 | 6 |
| Principles of LawPrinciples of Law Details | 3 | 6 |
| Sustainability and Environmental ManagementSustainability and Environmental Management Details | 3 | 6 |
| Course | SWS | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| Emerging TechnologiesEmerging Technologies Details | 3 | 6 |
| Finance, Investment and MathematicsFinance, Investment and Mathematics Details | 4 | 6 |
| Future Skills II | 3 | 6 |
| Global Sustainable Trade and Value ChainsGlobal Sustainable Trade and Value Chains Details | 3 | 6 |
| Marketing and Marketing ResearchMarketing and Marketing Research Details | 4 | 6 |
| Course | SWS | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| Behavioural Science and PsychologyBehavioural Science and Psychology Details | 3 | 6 |
| Business Models and Business PlanningBusiness Models and Business Planning Details | 3 | 6 |
| Circular Product and Service DesignCircular Product and Service Design Details | 4 | 6 |
| Social Business and InnovationSocial Business and Innovation Details | 3 | 6 |
| Sustainable Materials and TechnologiesSustainable Materials and Technologies Details | 4 | 6 |
| Course | SWS | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor Thesis IBachelor Thesis I Details | 2 | 6 |
| Cooperation, Cocreation and Community EngagementCooperation, Cocreation and Community Engagement Details | 4 | 6 |
| Current Issues in Global Sustainability and Circular BusinessCurrent Issues in Global Sustainability and Circular Business Details | 3 | 6 |
| International Cooperation for Sustainable DevelopmentInternational Cooperation for Sustainable Development Details | 4 | 6 |
| Practical / Professional Competence IPractical / Professional Competence I Details | 0 | 6 |
| Course | SWS | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor ExamBachelor Exam Details | 0 | 2 |
| Bachelor Thesis IIBachelor Thesis II Details | 2 | 8 |
| Political Skills - Institutions and InfluencePolitical Skills - Institutions and Influence Details | 4 | 6 |
| Practical / Professional Competence IIPractical / Professional Competence II Details | 0 | 14 |
We’re rethinking business for the 21st century by integrating economic knowledge with environmental and social consciousness. Our programme explores everything from circular economy strategies to creating sustainable value, challenging conventional approaches.
We equip you to lead and build a future where businesses and organisations are catalysts for positive change.
Our part-time structure lets you live your values from day one. No matter how you are making a difference – whether it is through your job, an internship, or volunteering with an NGO – if your work contributes to one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it counts toward your degree.
In semesters 5 and 6, 500 hours of this experience are accredited as practical competence.
Taught entirely in English and designed with a global perspective, our programme prepares you for the international dimensions of sustainability. You’ll explore global cooperation for sustainable development, study alongside peers from diverse cultural backgrounds, and benefit from a mobility window in your third semester at one of over 220+ partner universities worldwide.
You are also used to looking at things from the outside. You know how sustainability promotion and public administration work in the area of environmental protection and what is needed for strategic organisational consulting for companies in the area of sustainable business practices. This will lead to further fields of work.
IMC Business School
Programme Director Environmental and Sustainablity Management
