Language of instruction
Beginning in September
Professionals driving corporate sustainablity
Certificate Program (40 ECTS)
Driving tangible positive change
with online and 6 on campus weeks
This Is Sustainable Management and Operations
Sustainable Management and Operations integrates sustainability principles into business processes, ensuring organizations remain competitive while respecting social and environmental boundaries. This part-time program is for executives and managers who are passionate about becoming part of a vibrant community of responsible leaders in today’s rapidly evolving world. From supply chain decisions to strategic planning, this field addresses how companies can thrive long-term without compromising future resources. In essence, it’s about balancing profit, people, and planet.
Professionals in sustainable management may work in diverse roles, such as environmental compliance, green product development, or supply chain restructuring. Others specialize in corporate reporting, ensuring that sustainability goals are transparent and tracked.
Career Opportunities with a Master in Sustainable Management
A Sustainable Manager drives an organization’s transition toward responsible operations – from carbon accounting to circular economy innovations. Key tasks might include:
- Setting sustainability targets in alignment with global standards
- Implementing eco-friendly processes across supply chains
- Monitoring performance metrics related to resource usage and waste
- Engaging stakeholders through transparent communication and reporting
- Leading change initiatives that foster a sustainability mindset in every department
In the Sustainable Management and Operations program, you’ll explore leadership strategies, ethical decision-making, and how to embed sustainability into an organization’s culture – ultimately becoming a catalyst for positive impact.
The Program
Program: Master in Sustainable Management and Operations (SuMO)
Start Date: September 4, 2025
Our Master in Sustainable Management and Operations (part-time) is designed for professionals seeking to work with sustainability and make an impact through sustainable management without leaving full-time work. You’ll tackle real-world challenges and complete an Impact Project, learning how to measure, manage, and optimize sustainability in diverse operational contexts.
Participants may choose the Master route (with a thesis) or a Certificate (no thesis). Both share the same curriculum, with the master’s thesis added for the degree track.
Key highlights:
- Blended Learning: Online sessions combined with immersive on-campus classes in Hamburg
- Impact Project: Apply sustainability concepts directly to a workplace or industry problem
Master in Sustainable Management and Operations
- Duration: 18 months
- Program ECTS: 60 ECTS
- ECTS for Admission: 180 ECTS
- Minimum of 2 years work experience
- Sustainability Impact Project
- Master Thesis
Certificate in Sustainable Management and Operations
- Duration: 12 months
- Program ECTS: 45 ECTS
- Minimum of 2 years work experience
- Sustainability Impact Project
- Certificate
German students also have the option to apply for 10 days of Educational Leave (Bildungsurlaub: Anerkennung nr. HI 43-2/406-07.5, 62654), which consists of two consequtive on-campus sessions (10 days).
SuMO Curriculum
Starting with an overview of the dynamic changes in the business world, you will explore the relevant topics related to sustainability through interactive class discussions and teamwork. Bring your own experiences into the classroom and learn to apply business concepts to your specific environment. All of our senior faculty and practitioners on this executive program have experience teaching at leading universities and business schools around the world and will guide you through the learning journey.
- The Big Picture
- Global Trends and Impact
- Strategy and Leadership for Sustainability
- Sustainable Supply Chains
- Innovation and Sustainable Technologies
- Governance of Sustainable Enterprises
- Communicating Sustainability
- Operations and Green Logistics
- Sustainability Impact Project
Associate Professor of Management & Academic Director of Executive Education
Associate Professor of Management Accounting & Dean of Programs
Associate Professor for Sustainability Strategy and Operations, Co-Director Center for Sustainable Logistics and Supply Chains
Associate Professor of Sustainable Supply Chain Practice, Co-Director Center for Sustainable Logistics and Supply Chains
Which program at KLU is right for you?
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How to Apply
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements
We welcome applicants from all academic backgrounds looking to excel in sustainable management master studies. Here’s what you need:
- Bachelor’s degree (at least 180 ECTS) from a recognized institution
- Alternatively, provide a GMAT test if you do not have a bachelor’s degree
- Minimum 2 years of work experience (management experience preferred, not mandatory)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Personal interview with the Academic Director
* For the Master's program only.
Application deadlines
- Rolling admissions
- Application deadline: May 31, 2025
- Second Early Bird discount (5%): May 31, 2025
- 1st Scholarship Application Deadline: June 15, 2025
- Program start: September 4, 2025*
We charge an application fee of €50 for all applicants.
* If you are a company interested in sending multiple candidates, please contact us.
Visa Information
This program is designed for individuals who are already eligible to reside and study within the EU. Unfortunately, we cannot provide student visa support for this specific program. However, participants who wish to visit our campus every other month by entering Germany visa-free as tourists (see here) can contact us at study@klu.org to look for possible arrangements.
Tuition
| Master program | Certificate Program | |
| Duration | 18 months | 12 months |
| Tuition Fees | 22,350 € total | 14,900 € total |
Tuition fees are charged per semester.
Join our event series and delve into the challenges and opportunities of sustainability. Connect with like-minded innovators and industry leaders to explore sustainability strategies and foster community relationships.
Funding Options
Financing Options
There are several financing options available that help you cover the tuition:
- Brain Capital: This innovative financing model allows you to defer part or all of your tuition until after graduation, making income-based repayments. Higher earners pay more, and lower earners pay less – up to a capped amount (about double the tuition fee, adjusted for inflation).*
- Multiple loan schemes are available to cover living expenses
* Applicable for master's students only.
Scholarships
At KLU, we’re committed to helping you achieve your academic goals with a range of scholarships (up to 100% tuition coverage):
- 50% scholarship if your company is a member of AGA, BVL, or LIHH
- 50% scholarship for staff working in the humanitarian sector for NGO and social entrepreneurs
- 50% regional scholarship for applicants from developing countries
- 50% scholarship for female executives who are taking or have just taken the next step in their careers
- 50% scholarshio for Graduates from Common Purpose
First Scholarship Deadline: June 15, 2025 (rolling admissions means scholarships may be awarded early if eligible candidates apply beforehand).
Career Paths
Sustainable Management opens doors in corporate responsibility, green project development, consulting, and beyond. As global awareness of sustainability grows, so does demand for sustainability managers who can integrate ethical, resource-efficient practices into operations. Potential roles include:
- Sustainability Consultant
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Director
- Sustainable Supply Chain Manager
- ESG Compliance Officer
- Circular Economy Strategist
and many more.
Study in Germany
Germany is renowned for its world-class universities and strong economy, offering excellent opportunities for skilled professionals. With one of Europe’s most generous post-study work visas (up to 18 months), it’s the perfect place to start or enhance your career in sustainable management.
Study at KLU in Hamburg
Often cited as one of the most livable cities worldwide, Hamburg boasts a rich trading history, diverse culture, and robust logistics infrastructure – ideal for professionals looking to master sustainable operations. Enjoy a vibrant yet balanced lifestyle in the heart of this metropolis.
Sustainability at KLU
- Sustainability is one of the key competence areas of KLU - enjoy a unique access to the most up-to-date and relevant knowledge to assist companies in making the right decisions
- Benefit from KLU’s leadership and sustainability expertise along the entire supply chain, bolstered by our Center for Sustainable Logistics & Supply Chains (CSLS), which helped design this program
- Designed for professionals in sustainable management, the program addresses new regulations (CSRD, EU Supply Chain Law, Scope 3 Carbon Accounting) and emerging circular economy business models
- Learn more about the Green Office & Sustainability at KLU
94% of our students would recommend KLU to prospective students
Student Testimonials
Together with my colleagues, I am driving forward the decarbonization of global shipping for DB Schenker. I have learned a lot on the job, and I wouldn't want to miss the input from outside our company. The lectures of the SuMO program are a good enrichment for me and my company. I am very happy about the opportunity to participate in this program. Already today, after the first week of lectures, I can apply some learnings directly in my daily job routine. That motivates me a lot.
Sophie Drakopoulos, Master in Sustainable Management and Operations, Class of 2024
I am an auditor and I know that sustainability reporting will have a huge role in auditors and accountants’ profession in the future. I was looking for a training to gain a deeper understanding of all issues that should be reported under sustainability. My first impression here is quite positive, I am very inspired after these first days. The professors who are here know what they are talking about and have expertise in their area. I like the open discussion during the lessons and that we still have the chance to say what exactly we would like to learn – I’m happy that there is the chance to tailor the program to my needs.
Ilkka Kujala, Master in Sustainable Management and Operations, Class of 2024
I was looking for a program that was not full time and SuMO's syllabus sounded 100 percent suitable. So far I like it very much, our group dynamic is so inspiring! The small group size and the way of teaching with real life examples correlate with my own learning style. I'm already looking forward to the sustainability project that we will implement in small teams during the program. This way we can directly apply what we have learned.
Lidija Peters, Master in Sustainable Management and Operations, Class of 2024
I chose SuMO because I am very interested in sustainability and would like to learn more. I work in the communications industry and believe that communicating and implementing sustainability is an important task. My impression so far has been positive throughout. From the Welcome Day to the program structure to the way we interact with each other. We are a group with very different people who would probably never have met in real life - that makes the exchange very exciting.
Christina Richter, Master in Sustainable Management and Operations, Class of 2024
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