The AGRC Certificate in ESG Principles & Standards equips you with the skills to navigate today’s environmental, social, and governance priorities. Designed for professionals in governance, compliance, and risk, this course delivers a practical, globally relevant foundation in ESG standards and reporting frameworks.
Trusted by professionals in 80+ countries
15–20 hours, self-paced and 100% online
The AGRC study handbook and Interactive Lessons
Practice Questions & Mock Test
Online exam, Two attempts to pass
Free for one year
Digital certificate + PAGRC designation
Enroll now and get instant access – start anytime.
This certificate is ideal for:
No prior ESG knowledge is needed – just a strong grasp of English and a solid academic foundation.
Why Choose This ESG Certificate?
Gain practical ESG expertise, global credibility, and a recognised certification—all in a flexible, self-paced format. Perfect for compliance, risk, and governance professionals.
Build ESG Capability. Earn Global Recognition. Drive Responsible Growth.
The AGRC Certificate in ESG Principles & Standards delivers a rigorous foundation in ESG strategy, compliance, and reporting. Developed for today’s business and governance leaders, this self-paced course empowers professionals to drive sustainable change, fulfil regulatory obligations, and meet growing stakeholder demands. Gain immediate practical value and a globally recognised certification that enhances your career credibility across sectors.
Course Highlights
Explore how this ESG Certificate adds real value to your role and career progression.
| Professional Role | Why They Need It | How It Helps Their Career |
|---|---|---|
| Board Members & Directors | Required to oversee ESG strategy and governance obligations | Gain clarity on ESG duties and lead confidently in board-level conversations |
| Compliance & Risk Officers | Must implement and monitor ESG compliance and risk frameworks | Enhance technical knowledge and boost credentials for higher responsibility roles |
| Legal Professionals | Advising on ESG-related regulation and disclosure obligations | Understand reporting standards and provide ESG-aligned legal counsel |
| Sustainability Consultants | Develop ESG strategies and advise corporate clients | Deepen expertise and earn a globally respected certification to build client trust |
| Company Secretaries | Responsible for ESG reporting and stakeholder communication | Build ESG literacy to support governance and regulatory compliance |
| Aspiring ESG Professionals | Entering or transitioning into ESG-focused careers | Get a recognised credential and fast-track your entry into ESG, sustainability, or CSR |
Learn to navigate ESG expectations, reporting requirements, and investment pressures with clarity and authority.
Explore business ethics and stakeholder-centric governance. Understand ethical dilemmas, compare stakeholder theory with shareholder supremacy, and assess ethical decision-making in corporate settings.
Topics Covered:
Distinguish between CSR and ESG and their impact on non-financial performance. Explore sustainability in business and review the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Topics Covered:
Deep dive into the three ESG pillars with real-world applications. Learn how they form the backbone of sustainable business practices.
Topics Covered:
Understand the rise of Green Finance and its role in driving sustainable financial practices.
Topics Covered:
Examine why ESG is not just ethical but strategic. Analyse global case studies and challenges firms face in ESG integration.
Topics Covered:
Track global policy trends and how they impact ESG strategy. Stay ahead of evolving compliance landscapes.
Topics Covered:
Learn about globally accepted ESG reporting mechanisms and how they shape disclosure obligations.
Topics Covered:
Gain insights into ESG-focused investment strategies and tools for evaluating ESG performance in portfolios.
Topics Covered:
Look ahead at how ESG is evolving and what companies must do to stay relevant.
Topics Covered:
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) has evolved from a voluntary reporting concept to a core requirement for business sustainability, investor trust, and regulatory compliance. This globally recognised certificate equips professionals with the foundational knowledge and practical skills to understand ESG in its entirety—from ethical principles and regulatory frameworks to reporting standards and investment strategies.
Designed for decision-makers, advisors, and aspiring ESG professionals, this course offers a structured, real-world understanding of how ESG principles shape organisational strategy, risk, and reputation. Whether you’re leading sustainability transformation or stepping into an ESG-aligned role, this certificate provides the clarity, confidence, and credibility needed to navigate today’s ESG expectations.
By the end of this programme, you will be able to:
Understand the Foundations of ESG
Learn the differences between CSR and ESG, and explore the ethical and strategic importance of sustainability.
Apply ESG Frameworks and Reporting Standards
Gain clarity on the leading ESG standards and how to comply with regulatory and stakeholder reporting requirements.
Evaluate ESG Risks and Opportunities
Identify material ESG issues, benchmark ESG metrics, and assess the impact on corporate performance and investment decisions.
Navigate Global ESG Regulations and Trends
Stay ahead of legal developments such as the Paris Agreement, EU Green Deal, and UK Green Finance Strategy.
Integrate ESG into Governance and Business Strategy
Use ESG principles to support responsible decision-making, stakeholder engagement, and long-term value creation.
Validate Your ESG Expertise with a Globally Recognised Credential
To successfully earn the AGRC Certificate in ESG Principles & Standards, you must pass the final online assessment.
Note: Learners must complete the programme and book their exam within 3 months of enrolment. After this period, a £150 fee applies for exam access or additional attempts.
Upon successfully passing the exam with a minimum score of 70%, you will receive:
This certification affirms your commitment to responsible governance and enhances your credibility in ESG-focused roles globally.
Enrol today in the AGRC Certificate in ESG Principles & Standards and take the next step toward becoming a globally recognised ESG professional. Don’t wait — ESG knowledge is no longer optional.
Members
Completion Rate
Jurisdictions
What does the AGRC ESG Certificate course cover?
You’ll learn ESG fundamentals, stakeholder theory, CSR vs ESG, green finance, sustainable investment, and global compliance frameworks like the EU Green Deal and UK Green Finance Strategy.
Is this ESG training aligned with global standards?
Yes. The course reflects international ESG standards including the Paris Agreement, TCFD, SFDR, and IFRS sustainability disclosures—ensuring it stays current and compliant.
How is the content kept up to date?
AGRC regularly reviews and updates content to reflect regulatory shifts, sustainability benchmarks, and evolving ESG best practices worldwide.
Is the course self-paced?
Yes. You can learn entirely at your own pace—24/7 access on desktop, mobile or tablet.
How long do I have to complete the ESG certificate?
You’ll have full access for 3 months from the day you register, including time to prepare for the final exam.
Can I start immediately after enrolling?
Yes. You’ll get instant access to all course materials and support resources once payment is confirmed.
What does the £750 fee include?
It covers full course access, study materials, digital exam, AGRC membership, and your ESG certificate with global recognition.
Is there a refund policy?
AGRC offers a risk-free enrolment window. If you’re not satisfied after enrolling, contact support for options.
Is the price competitive for ESG certification?
Yes. Compared to university-level or global ESG training providers, this course offers strong ROI with lower cost and faster completion time.
What learning materials are included?
You’ll get a comprehensive study handbook, expert-led videos, practice quizzes, a mock exam, and regular content updates.
Is support available during the course?
Yes. AGRC offers responsive learner support, and you can engage with tutors and peers through an online learning community.
What if I need extra help to pass?
The included practice resources, mock exams, and learner support are designed to help you succeed on your first attempt.
Is this ESG course suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. No prior ESG knowledge is needed. It’s designed for professionals from any industry, provided you have a solid academic foundation and English fluency.
Who should take this ESG certificate course?
It’s ideal for directors, compliance officers, legal professionals, risk managers, sustainability consultants, and anyone entering ESG or responsible business roles.
Can non-financial professionals take this course?
Yes. The course is sector-neutral and accessible to those in legal, HR, procurement, public policy, or governance roles.
Will I get a recognised ESG certificate?
Yes. Upon passing the final exam, you’ll receive a digital AGRC Certificate and can use the ‘PAGRC’ post-nominal designation.
Is the AGRC certification internationally recognised?
Definitely. AGRC is a respected global body in compliance, governance, and ESG, with members and partners across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Does the course include a formal exam?
Yes. You must pass a final assessment to earn the certificate—ensuring it’s both credible and career-enhancing.
How does this ESG course improve my career?
It boosts your ESG credibility, positions you for leadership or advisory roles, and helps you meet the growing demand for ESG-aligned governance and compliance expertise.
Is this ESG certificate valued by employers?
Yes. ESG knowledge is now a strategic asset across sectors. The AGRC Certificate proves you understand ESG risks, reporting, and stakeholder expectations.
Will this help me transition into ESG roles?
Absolutely. It provides the foundation and recognition to pivot into ESG consulting, sustainable finance, or compliance-led leadership roles.
Can I access the course on mobile devices?
Yes. The platform is fully mobile-optimised, so you can study anytime, anywhere—from your phone, tablet, or laptop.
Do I need any special software?
No. You only need an internet connection and a browser—no extra software or technical setup is required.
Is the course accessible internationally?
Yes. Learners from across the globe can enrol, with materials designed for a global ESG regulatory context.
Empowering ESG Professionals with Flexible, Globally Recognised Learning
Learn from industry-recognised ESG experts and earn a trusted certification valued across governance, risk, and compliance roles.
Study on your schedule with high-quality, pre-recorded faculty videos—designed for busy professionals balancing work and growth.
Gain actionable insights through real-world case studies, aligned with the latest ESG trends, regulations, and global frameworks.
Stay motivated with structured learning, interactive exercises, and real-world tasks alongside a diverse peer group from multiple industries.