Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Finance and Investment

Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Finance and Investment

POSTGRADUATE

Elevate your career with specialised expertise in aligning financial success with sustainability goals.

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Student type:
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

Not applicable

Duration:
Full-time 6 months
or part-time equivalent
Fees:

AU$18,720 (2025 total)

Next intake:
July
Location:
Melbourne City

Note: This course starts in Semester 2 2025.

Overview

Gain in-depth knowledge of sustainable finance and investment principles—master the skills to consider environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues when making investment decisions.

The Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Finance and Investment delves into the intricacies of sustainable investment, financial risk management and ethical governance. The targeted knowledge and practical skills you'll gain will empower you to address the critical challenges and opportunities in sustainable finance and drive positive changes in the financial sector.

This course incorporates LSEG (London Stock Exchange Group) Workspace, a cutting-edge fintech data analytics platform that gives you hands-on experience in real-world financial analysis and ESG evaluation. You'll have access to not only real-time data but also historical insights from a wide array of sources and expert partners worldwide. This allows you to analyse news, data, and conduct market research, enabling you to gain practical experience using the same tools and information as professionals in leading financial institutions.

With sustainability at the forefront of global business, your expertise in responsible investment, ESG analysis, risk management, and sustainable business practices will prepare you to meet the evolving demands of the industry and set you apart as a leader in this rapidly expanding field.

Why study sustainable finance and investment at RMIT?

Experiential learning

Through industry engagement and exposure to real-world challenges, learn to formulate innovative business solutions focused on sustainability.

Innovative curriculum

Gain specialist sustainable financial management expertise with cutting-edge fintech and analytics, all within a global context.

Top 5 global recognition

RMIT is among the world's top 5 universities for our comprehensive excellence and overarching impact in contributing to global sustainable development*.

*Times Higher Education World University Impact Rankings 2024

RMIT Bursary

If you’re an RMIT University alumnus commencing this degree from Semester 1 2025, you may be eligible to receive a 10% reduction on your tuition fees.

Details

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Learning and teaching

Taught predominantly face-to-face at our Melbourne City campus this graduate certificate also offers some online learning formats to create a productive blended learning environment. Throughout the course, teaching formats may include guest lecturers, tutorials, class presentations, and group and student-led discussions.

You may work independently or in a team to conduct research, solve problems, analyse and respond to case studies, prepare or respond to briefs, write original research or case study reports, or participate in managing a company in a computer-based business simulation.

Assessment methods

Your assessment will typically come in the form of assignments and projects. These may be either research or problem based, and will provide you with experience in effectively researching, writing and presenting your findings to a range of audiences. Your assignments will help develop your skills in communication and reasoning, and will offer you the opportunity to receive feedback on your learning and skills development.

You may also be assessed through written and oral exams, presentations, and in-class activities.

Learning at RMIT

The types of classes you have will depend on the course you’re studying. Classes are offered in various formats designed to provide meaningful engagement with staff, industry and peers and provide for access and use of spaces where learning can be applied and active, including an array of specialised equipment.

Most RMIT courses do not include passive large-scale classes such as lectures, instead the content traditionally provided in lectures is made available online. This may be in the form of readings, videos or other on-demand learning materials. This content will also support the basis of interactive learning that takes place in on-campus classes.

Industry partners play a pivotal role in this course by providing input into the course outline, contributing to learning materials such as case studies, guest lecturing and sharing current practices and latest industry directions.

This involvement ensures that students benefit from industry perspectives and keep up with industry developments.

The course's emphasis on industry-partnered learning, practical application of theoretical concepts, and industry involvement, along with the integration of LSEG Workspace, collectively enrich the learning experience and prepare students for real-world challenges in this field.

While there are no formal requirements for work-integrated learning (WIL), practical application of theoretical concepts and exposure to real-world challenges are prominently featured in the course. A WIL experience is included where students apply their knowledge and teamwork skills to simulated real-world contexts.

There are 3 teacher-guided hours each week. 

You should also expect 9 hours of external study per subject per week to complete required reading and assignments.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

The Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Finance and Investment comprises 4 compulsory subjects:

  • Principles of Sustainable Finance and Investment
  • Sustainable Financial Risk Management
  • Ethics and Corporate Governance in Global Financial Markets
  • Financial Technology and Analytics in Sustainable Finance and Investment

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Finance and Investment
Program code: GC219
Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Finance and Investment
City Campus
6 months full-time or part-time equivalent
GC219
Location
City Campus
Duration
6 months full-time or part-time equivalent
Plan code
GC219
CRICOS
View plan

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

Career

A career in sustainable finance offers a unique blend of financial expertise and a commitment to environmental and social impact.

As professionals in this dynamic field, you’ll be positioned at the intersection of finance and sustainability, using your skills to drive responsible investment and ethical financial practices that contribute to a better future.

Key roles in sustainable finance include:

  • ESG analysis: Assessing companies and investments based on their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance.
  • Sustainable investment: Creating and managing portfolios that align with sustainability objectives, such as climate action and social equity.
  • Impact investing: Targeting investments that deliver both financial returns and measurable positive social or environmental outcomes.
  • Green finance: Directing capital flows toward sustainable projects and green initiatives.
  • Sustainability consulting: Guiding organisations in integrating sustainability into their core strategies and operations.

With the rising demand for sustainable investment practices, career opportunities in this field are expanding rapidly. Sustainable finance offers the chance to make a meaningful difference while building a successful and impactful career, contributing to a more equitable and sustainable future.

Entry requirements and admissions

You need to satisfy all of the following entry requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

An Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent), or higher level qualification, in any discipline from a recognised tertiary institution.

If you do not meet the above entry requirement for the Graduate Certificate you may be considered if you have a minimum of 5 years' full-time equivalent work experience. Applicants will be required to submit a curriculum vitae (CV).

*If your qualification was completed more than 10 years ago you will need to provide evidence of ongoing professional work and/or professional development in the same discipline as the course for which you are seeking entry to be granted credit.

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

You must meet the University's minimum English language requirements to be eligible for a place in this program.

You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus at RMIT University Pathways (RMIT UP).

Pathways

You can gain entry to this graduate certificate from a range of RMIT undergraduate programs, if you meet the entry requirements.

Credit and recognition of prior learning

Credit, recognition of prior learning, professional experience and accreditation from a professional body can reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant experience.

Upon successful completion of this graduate certificate, you may be eligible for up to 48 credit points of exemption towards the Master of Finance.

Fees

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2025 indicative fees

  • Full-fee places: AU$18,720* (2025 total)

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$365 maximum fee for 2025*.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment*

Amounts quoted are indicative fees per annum, and are based on a standard year of full-time study (96 credit points). A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load.

*Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Defer your payment

This program is offered on a full-fee paying basis only. If you are offered a place, you will need to pay the full tuition costs of your program. However, eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.

Paying your fees and applying for refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is $365.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your course, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from course to course.

FEE-HELP loans

Eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.

SA-HELP Loans

You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.

How does a HELP loan work?

If your FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.

You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.

For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

About the bursary

If you’re an RMIT University alumnus commencing this degree from Semester 1 2025, you may be eligible to receive a 10% reduction on your tuition fees.

Eligibility criteria

Eligibility

To be eligible you must be:

  • an RMIT alumnus, having completed an award program at RMIT (including RMIT Vietnam and RMIT Online), and
  • a domestic student commencing* an eligible face-to-face/On Campus (Melbourne campus) RMIT Business or Law postgraduate degree in Semester 1 2025, and
  • enrolled in a full-fee paying place.

*a student is considered commencing if they are enrolled in the first semester of their degree and have not previously been enrolled. 

Note:

  • If you become eligible for the discount during 2025 (i.e., an international student who receives Permanent Residency) you must contact Business Connect to have your eligibility assessed and the discount applied. The College of Business and Law will not monitor eligibility or apply the discount outside the normal admissions process).
  • You are eligible for the discount on course enrolments in all degrees that meet the criteria (i.e., both the Graduate Certificate and a Masters degree). 

Exclusions

RMIT Bursary:

  • Cannot be held concurrently with any other scholarship, bursary or any other monetary discounts offered by RMIT (excluding awards).
  • Will not apply to postgraduate studies undertaken in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) or online delivered programs.

Payment of bursary:

  • If eligibility is maintained, the discount will apply to all eligible course enrolments in the eligible degree in the year the discount has been awarded (i.e., 2025).
  • The discount will be applied directly to your student account and will be reflected on your invoice.
  • The discount is reviewed annually and may be removed in future years.

Application process

If you are an RMIT alumni there is no application process. Your eligibility to receive the bursary will be assessed at the time of application and enrolment. If eligible, the bursary will be applied directly to your tuition fees.

Eligible programs

All College of Business and Law postgraduate coursework programs delivered face-to-face/on campus (Melbourne campus). 

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The annual tuition fee for 2022 is AU$XX,XXX.

The total indicative tuition fee for 2022 commencement is AU$XX,XXX.

In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Student services and amenities fee (SSAF)

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is $365. 

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

This course is not available for international students intending to study on a student visa.

Information for international students

Sorry, this course is not available for international students intending to study on a student visa. If you hold a different visa type, you may be eligible. Please contact Study@RMIT for more information.

 

Information for local students

If you are a local student please select 'switch to local' below to view the full course information.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information