University offers online degree in sustainable management

University offers online degree in sustainable management

Eco-awareness has permeated many industries, as several employers have realized that energy-efficiency is also cost-effective. Individuals with a degree in a field related to the environment may have a better chance of being hired.

Fortunately, many online universities are creating new programs to fit the demands of a selective job market. For example, the Duluth News Tribune reports that the University of Wisconsin and four of its campuses will now offer an online bachelor degree in science and sustainable management. In addition to the degree program, the school will also have several five-course credit certificates in the field.

The coursework will include environmental studies, accounting, natural resource management, logistics and sustainability.

According to school officials, individuals with a bachelor of science in sustainable management will be qualified to help businesses develop sustainable practices while still helping to preserve natural resources and strengthen community.

Between 1998 and 2007, the number of green-collar jobs grew by more than 9 percent, which is nearly twice the rate for traditional jobs, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports.

Individuals who have full-time jobs or children can still earn a socially relevant degree and possibly advance their career by enrolling in an online school. Approximately 4.6 million students were enrolled in at least one online course in the 2008 academic year, the Sloan Consortium reports.

By Mark Danson