CMI Certificate in Sustainability Management and Leadership Level 5 (RQF)

CMI Certificate in Sustainability Management and Leadership Level 5 (RQF)

This Course at a Glance

• Gain a CMI sustainability certification at Level 5
• Study sustainability principles, leadership, and managing change
• Focus on two key units from the CMI sustainability suite
• Equivalent to a foundation degree level qualification
• 100% online study
• No exams

The CMI Level 5 Certificate in Sustainability Management and Leadership (RQF) is designed for managers and leaders who want to expand their sustainability expertise beyond the basics.

Unlike the shorter Award, the Certificate gives you the opportunity to study multiple units in depth, making it one of the most valuable CMI sustainability courses available. You’ll build a stronger understanding of how to embed sustainability into leadership, manage change effectively, and translate strategy into action.

By completing this CMI sustainability certification, you’ll be equipped to lead ethically, make responsible decisions, and contribute to long-term organisational success. You’ll also stand out to employers as someone capable of driving sustainable change in a leadership role.

Getting Started

With learndirect, you’ll study entirely online, giving you the flexibility to learn at your own pace while balancing work and personal commitments. Our user-friendly platform is available 24/7, and you’ll benefit from expert tutor support throughout your course.

As part of your enrolment, you’ll also receive Affiliate CMI Membership (if you’re not already a member). This gives you access to exclusive resources, tools, and professional networks to support your development.

Modules

Unit CMI 560: Sustainability Principles For Managers and Leaders

Guided Learning Hours - 40

Total Unit Time - 100

Credits - 10

Upon completion of this unit, you will:

• Know how to evaluate the drivers of sustainable practices in an organisation
• Be able to assess the role of managers and leaders in promoting and influencing sustainability practices

Unit CMI 561: Managing and Operationalising Sustainability Practice

Guided Learning Hours - 40

Total Unit Time - 100

Credits - 10

Upon completion of this unit, you will:

• Be able to examine the impact of sustainability principles on operational planning
• Know how to develop an operational plan that addresses sustainability goals

Entry Requirements

This course is suitable for individuals already working in or aspiring to management and leadership roles. To enrol, you should have an excellent command of written English and confidence in carrying out independent research.

Minimum Age Restriction

You must be aged 19 or older to enrol on this course.

Average Completion Timeframe

The average time it takes to complete this course is 12 months. You have 24 months to complete it.

Assessment Requirements

Your assessments will consist of: Q&A, Case Studies, Essay, Reflections

Placement or Practical Required

No placement required but learners do need to be in an appropriate work setting to allow them to satisfy the criteria of the qualification.

If Placement or Practical Required, When?

Learners need to be in an appropriate work setting for the duration of the course.

Is Membership Required?

Membership is required and purchased by us.

Observation by us Required

Learners will be observed by a work-based mentor during the course.

Certification Timeframe

You should receive your certificate in 12 weeks, but that can be extended if an EQA sample is required.

Course Fees

All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.

This online sustainability course is assessed entirely through coursework. You’ll complete written assignments that demonstrate your ability to apply sustainability principles to real-world management challenges.

This practical approach ensures that the skills you gain can be transferred directly into your workplace. To confirm authenticity, you’ll sign a Statement of Authenticity when submitting assignments.

CMI

Upon successful completion of this course, you will have achieved a nationally recognised Level 5 Certificate in Sustainability Management and Leadership (qualification number: 610/5517/7)

The Chartered Management Institute is a professional institution for management based in the United Kingdom.

Completing this Certificate demonstrates to employers that you have more than just leadership skills; you also understand how to apply sustainability principles at a practical level.

It’s a strong career move for aspiring middle managers, department leaders, or sustainability-focused professionals. You’ll also have the option to progress onto the CMI Level 5 Diploma in Sustainability Management and Leadership.

Employers across all sectors increasingly ask, ‘are sustainability certifications worth it?’ With growing demand for leaders who can balance business goals with ethical and environmental responsibility, the answer is yes, they are more valuable now than ever.

Frequently Asked Questions