Best MBA Programs – Sustainability for 2025
Making a difference in the world is a growing priority for businesses of all sizes, particularly surrounding social and environmental impact. Many MBA programs have courses designed to educate students at the intersection of business and environmental, social, and governance (ESG). Among the schools part of Fortune’s flagship best MBA ranking, these schools allow students to specialize in ESG, sustainability, and/or social impact.
- Order/Rank
- A - Z
- California
- Colorado
- District of Columbia
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
- Ann Arbor, MI
- Atlanta, GA
- Berkeley, CA
- Boston, MA
- Cambridge, MA
- Cape Girardeau, MO
- Chapel Hill, NC
- Charlottesville, VA
- College Park, MD
- Dartmouth, MA
- Denver, CO
- Durham, NC
- Eugene, OR
- Evanston, IL
- Hoboken, NJ
- Los Angeles, CA
- Minneapolis, MN
- Nashville, TN
- New Orleans, LA
- New York, NY
- Philadelphia, PA
- Pittsburgh, PA
- Potsdam, NY
- Provo, UT
- Seattle, WA
- Waco, TX
- Washington, DC
- Worcester, MA
*Please note that not all schools offer this specific type of information.
1. Northwestern University (Kellogg)
Evanston, IL| Acceptance rate | 33% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $175,000 |
| Median GMAT | 740 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $83,610 |
2. University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)
Philadelphia, PA| Acceptance rate | 20% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $175,000 |
| Median GMAT | 740 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $84,830 |
3. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor (Ross)
Ann Arbor, MI| Acceptance rate | 38% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $175,000 |
| Median GMAT | 730 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $78,030 |
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4. Duke University (Fuqua)
Durham, NC| Acceptance rate | 22% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $175,000 |
| Median GMAT | 720 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $77,925 |
5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Sloan)
Cambridge, MA| Acceptance rate | 17% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $170,000 |
| Median GMAT | 730 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $84,350 |
6. New York University (Stern)
New York, NY| Acceptance rate | 31% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $175,000 |
| Median GMAT | 730 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $86,916 |
7. University of Virginia (Darden)
Charlottesville, VAUVA's Darden School of Business, established in 1955, boasts "world-class master teachers." MBA candidates average about six years of work experience, with core classes of about 70 students. Applicants must submit all valid GMAT, GRE, EA, MCAT, and LSAT scores, one letter of recommendation, and international students must prove English proficiency. The final application deadline is May 1, with a $250 fee. The University of Virginia (Darden) is ranked No. 11 on Fortune's flagship best MBA list and offers a concentration in the environment, social, and governance (ESG).
| Acceptance rate | 39% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $175,000 |
| Median GMAT | 710 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $81,700 |
8. University of California–Berkeley (Haas)
Berkeley, CAThe full-time MBA program at the University of California–Berkeley Haas School of Business aims to "question the status quo" in business education. Students can pair their MBA with another degree or earn certificates in areas like business analytics or real estate. Applicants should have at least three years of work experience. GMAT or GRE scores are required, with no test waiver policy. Two recommendation letters are needed, and international applicants must take the TOEFL or IELTS. The final application deadline is April 3, with a $250 fee. The University of California–Berkeley (Haas) is ranked No. 16 on Fortune's flagship best MBA list and offers a concentration in sustainable business.
| Acceptance rate | 23% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $166,650 |
| Median GMAT | 740 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $85,405 |
UC Davis Master of Management
The online Master of Management from UC Davis is a graduate business degree designed for recent college graduates, ambitious young professionals and career-changers aspiring to leadership roles.
The 15-month online Master of Management program provides aspiring leaders with a foundation in the functional areas of business, such as accounting, finance, marketing and strategy. No minimum professional experience is required.
9. Carnegie Mellon University (Tepper)
Pittsburgh, PA| Acceptance rate | 29% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $161,000 |
| Median GMAT | 710 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $75,712 |
10. Georgia Institute of Technology (Scheller)
Atlanta, GA| Acceptance rate | 19% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $165,000 |
| Median GMAT | 700 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $42,790 |
11. Vanderbilt University (Owen)
Nashville, TN| Acceptance rate | 40% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $165,550 |
| Median GMAT | 690 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $71,250 |
12. University of Southern California (Marshall)
Los Angeles, CA| Acceptance rate | 23% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $150,000 |
| Median GMAT | 730 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $79,893 |
13. University of California–Los Angeles (Anderson)
Los Angeles, CA| Acceptance rate | 40% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $150,000 |
| Median GMAT | 720 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $76,396 |
The Online MBA From Rice Business
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14. University of Washington (Foster)
Seattle, WA| Acceptance rate | 42% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $148,000 |
| Median GMAT | 710 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $57,831 |
15. University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill (Kenan-Flagler)
Chapel Hill, NC| Acceptance rate | 38% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $141,300 |
| Median GMAT | 700 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $68,844 |
16. Boston University (Questrom)
Boston, MA| Acceptance rate | 36% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $125,000 |
| Median GMAT | 680 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $66,670 |
17. Brigham Young University (Marriott)
Provo, UT| Acceptance rate | 57% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $120,000 |
| Median GMAT | 660 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $15,528 |
18. University of Maryland (Smith)
College Park, MD| Acceptance rate | 32% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $130,000 |
| Median GMAT | 660 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $60,272 |
UC Davis Master of Management
The online Master of Management from UC Davis is a graduate business degree designed for recent college graduates, ambitious young professionals and career-changers aspiring to leadership roles.
The 15-month online Master of Management program provides aspiring leaders with a foundation in the functional areas of business, such as accounting, finance, marketing and strategy. No minimum professional experience is required.
19. University of Minnesota (Carlson)
Minneapolis, MN| Acceptance rate | 47% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $135,000 |
| Median GMAT | 680 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $91,200 |
20. Fordham University (Gabelli)
New York, NY| Acceptance rate | 58% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $120,000 |
| Median GMAT | 640 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $62,250 |
21. American University (Kogod)
Washington, DC| Acceptance rate | 22% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $110,000 |
| Median GMAT | DNP |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $45,000 |
22. Clarkson University (Reh)
Potsdam, NY| Acceptance rate | 90% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $107,500 |
| Median GMAT | DNP |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $18,905 |
23. Tulane University (Freeman)
New Orleans, LA| Acceptance rate | 64% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $90,000 |
| Median GMAT | 623 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $55,663 |
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24. Baylor University (Hankamer)
Waco, TX| Acceptance rate | 38% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $81,500 |
| Median GMAT | 605 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $58,100 |
25. Clark University
Worcester, MA| Acceptance rate | 58% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $75,000 |
| Median GMAT | 620 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $29,850 |
26. University of Massachusetts–Dartmouth (Charlton)
Dartmouth, MA| Acceptance rate | 74% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $72,550 |
| Median GMAT | DNP |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $22,406 |
27. University of Oregon (Lundquist)
Eugene, OR| Acceptance rate | 78% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $75,000 |
| Median GMAT | 630 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $44,620 |
28. University of Denver (Daniels)
Denver, CO| Acceptance rate | 64% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $90,000 |
| Median GMAT | 705 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $48,000 |
The Online MBA From Rice Business
Rethink Your Approach to Business
The online MBA program from Rice Business prepares students to apply both traditional and cutting-edge business principles to current real-world challenges. Students amplify their technical and leadership skills and can select from electives such as finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, strategy and operations. Located in the energy industry hub of Houston, Texas, Rice Business also features specialized electives focused on the energy field. GMAT/GRE waivers are available. Learn more.
29. Stevens Institute of Technology
Hoboken, NJ| Acceptance rate | 50% |
| Median base salary of new grads | $80,000 |
| Median GMAT | 610 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | $42,828 |
30. Southeast Missouri State University (Harrison)
Cape Girardeau, MO| Acceptance rate | 32% |
| Median base salary of new grads | DNP |
| Median GMAT | 530 |
| Tuition per year, out-of-state | DNP |
The Online MBA From Rice Business
Rethink Your Approach to Business
The online MBA program from Rice Business prepares students to apply both traditional and cutting-edge business principles to current real-world challenges. Students amplify their technical and leadership skills and can select from electives such as finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, strategy and operations. Located in the energy industry hub of Houston, Texas, Rice Business also features specialized electives focused on the energy field. GMAT/GRE waivers are available. Learn more.
Methodology
Over 200 institutions were contacted by Fortune for our industry-leading full-time MBA ranking. About 100 participated in the 2025 list, of which nearly one-third have a healthcare-centric concentration. The schools were ranked using the same formula as our flagship MBA ranking, and were weighted as follows:
- Fortune 1000: 20%
- Previous Fortune MBA ranking: 2%
- Median base salary: 25%
- Employment placement rate: 15%
- Graduation rate, 2020–23: 10%
- Median GMAT score, fall 2023 entrants: 7%
- Total tuition, out-of-state U.S. residents: 5%
- Retention rate, 2022–23: 5%
- Acceptance rate, fall 2023: 5%
- Yield, 2023–24: 3%
- Average undergraduate GPA, 2023–24 enrollees: 3%
Learn more: Read Fortune’s MBA methodology.
MBA career paths
What is an MBA in sustainability?
An MBA in sustainability is a graduate business education grounded in environmental awareness, social impact, and sustainable use. Students learn how to apply best practices to a world that cares deeply about corporate responsibility and making a positive impact.
General curriculum and skills taught
Any MBA program teaches the foundations of business leadership, such as on topics like economics, strategy, and marketing. Courses on organizational behavior, finance, and entrepreneurship are also largely part of the core curriculum. With a concentration in sustainability, students will learn an applied understanding of business paired with topics like environmental concerns, resource scarcity, and policy development.
Specializations and concentrations
An MBA in sustainability topics exists in a variety of different nomenclatures, including:
- Social impact
- ESG Factors for Business
- Energy and environment
- Sustainable business and innovation strategy
- Leaders in sustainability
- Sustainability in business
- Environmental management
- Social change and sustainability
- Sustainable enterprise
Admissions information
Landing a seat at a top-tier MBA program requires meeting a comprehensive set of admissions criteria. While requirements may vary among institutions, applications must typically include:
- Academics: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, supported by official transcripts.
- Experiences: A well-crafted résumé highlighting career achievements and leadership potential.
- Essays: Thoughtful essay responses or personal statements that showcase your unique perspective and aspirations.
- Recommendations: Strong letters of recommendation from supervisors, mentors, or colleagues who can attest to your capabilities.
- Skills: Some programs may require an interview to assess your communication abilities and fit. Moreover, scores from the GMAT or GRE can prove your verbal and quantitative reasoning skills.
GMAT, GRE, and GPA
While GMAT and GRE scores remain important for MBA admissions, programs focused on ESG and sustainability may place additional emphasis on candidates' demonstrated commitment to social impact. Some schools may offer test waivers for applicants with significant experience in sustainability roles. GPA is still considered, but many programs take a holistic view, recognizing that passion for social change may not always correlate with traditional academic metrics.
Which factors drive acceptance?
Admissions committees for ESG-focused MBAs look beyond standard criteria. They seek candidates who demonstrate a deep understanding of sustainability challenges and a commitment to driving positive change. Experience in social enterprises, nonprofits, or corporate sustainability roles can be particularly valuable. Articulating how an MBA will enhance your ability to create meaningful impact is crucial.
How to choose the best MBA in sustainability for you: Factors to consider beyond rankings
When selecting a sustainability-focused MBA program, it is important to keep in mind ideas like: Depth and breadth of sustainability curriculum Partnerships with sustainability-focused organizations Opportunities for hands-on impact projects with local businesses Faculty expertise in ESG and sustainability Program's track record in placing graduates in impact-driven roles These elements can significantly shape your MBA experience and post-graduation trajectory, warranting careful consideration of your circumstances and aspirations.
Accreditation
Not every business school is the same; some hold themselves to higher standards of education. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation is a prestigious certification, held by only 6% of business schools worldwide. It signifies a rigorous curriculum, exceptional faculty, and cutting-edge research capabilities. Graduates of accredited institutions also have a track record of landing jobs, even in a competitive market.
Program logistics
Embarking on an MBA journey requires meticulous planning. It’s important to have candid discussions with your employer and family about the potential impact of your academic pursuits. When researching programs, pay close attention to application deadlines, start dates, and the time required for test preparation and application compilation. This process may span several years, necessitating a long-term perspective
Curriculum and connections
When evaluating the curriculum of an MBA, consider what value it places on sustainable principles across all core business subjects. Some items to look for include:
- Dedicated courses on sustainable finance, social entrepreneurship, and impact measurement
- Experiential learning opportunities with social enterprises or B Corps
- Faculty with real-world experience in sustainability leadership
- Strong connections to impact investing firms and social impact organizations
Prestige
The brand reputation of a university matters. When you share your alma mater in an interview—or a recruiter sees it on a résumé—you want them to know the value of your degree. Therefore, there remains merit in selecting a school that is widely known for its academic success.
Concentrations
Many programs now offer formal concentrations in sustainability, social impact, or ESG. However, also consider schools that allow you to create a custom focus through electives and independent projects aligned with your specific impact goals.
Cost
MBA programs can vary in price, and those with ESG concentrations are no exception. Six top MBA programs, the likes of NYU (Stern), MIT (Sloan), and Northwestern University (Kellogg) charge over $80,000 per year in tuition alone. On the other hand, other institutions tend to be more affordable. For example, Georgia Tech (Scheller) and the University of Oregon (Lundquist) charge closer to $40,000 annually.
Network and access to alumni
While ESG is growing in popularity, it remains a competitive field. As a result, finding ways to build connections is paramount. Analyze whether schools facilitate networking events or have easily accessible alumni who are working in your desired field. Increasing your professional circle will only help you get your foot in the door at your dream job.
Internship support
Landing a top internship can be the key to landing a lucrative post-MBA job. Take full advantage of networking opportunities to build relationships to last a lifetime. When looking at schools, be aware of the historical success of students landing internships at companies in their ESG divisions.
Campus impact and community
Making an impact starts directly with the local community. Figure out how committed the business schools on your radar are themselves committed to sustainability. Do they prioritize sustainable energy? Do they have recycling bins? Moreover, research whether the school has active ESG-related student organizations that you could become part of. Being part of a community of change can help build momentum toward a more sustainable future at school. Then, these real-world skills can be applied to a career in business.
Careers for MBA in sustainability graduates
Companies of all shapes and sizes are prioritizing ESG. Outside of roles at environmentally-focused organizations themselves, individuals may be able to find corporate responsibility and sustainability roles at larger companies. Some of the roles you might explore include: ESG consultant ESG analyze Sustainability manager Social impact analyst Corporate social responsibility manager Manager of ESG compliance reporting
Financing and scholarships
In addition to traditional MBA funding sources, keep an eye out for:
- Scholarships specifically for sustainability-focused MBA candidates
- Fellowships from impact investing firms or social enterprises
- Grants from foundations supporting social impact education
- Loan forgiveness programs for graduates pursuing careers in the social sector
Remember that many ESG-focused MBA programs emphasize creating both financial and social returns, preparing you for a career that aligns profit with purpose.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best MBA for sustainability?
Northwestern University (Kellogg) is the best MBA program that has a concentration in sustainability topics. The school specifically allows students to take a pathway focused on “Sustainability: Social Impact and Responsible Leadership” or “Sustainability: Climate, Environment, & Energy.”
What is the easiest top MBA program to get into for sustainability?
Among the top 20 MBA programs with sustainability specializations, Fordham University (Gabelli) is the easiest to get into, with an acceptance rate of 58%. It is followed by Brigham Young University (Marriott) and the University of Minnesota (Carlson), with acceptance rates of 57% and 47%, respectively.
Can you study sustainability at Harvard Business School?
Yes, during students’ time at Harvard Business School, environmental topics are part of the required curriculum. Students may also take elective courses on subjects like corporate accountability, sustainable production, and social impact.
Is an MBA in sustainability worth it?
If a sustainable future is key to your business priorities, then yes, an MBA in sustainability can be worth it as you will gain an unparalleled perspective of the intersection of business and the environment, sustainability, and social impact. Many large corporations prioritize ESG long-term, and they need skilled workers to help them meet their goals.
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