From ambition to action: Fontys trains the sustainability advisors of the future

The urgency of sustainability is everywhere - from climate reports to stricter legislation for businesses. Yet many organizations are still struggling to translate ambitions into action. In order to change this, Fontys Venlo has developed the new post-bachelor's degree program Sustainability Advisor.

A hands-on course that trains professionals to become change agents with impact. With the new course Sustainability Advisor, Fontys Venlo is responding to the growing demand for professionals who can translate sustainability into practice. 'We saw a growing need for professionals who can integrate sustainability into policy and practice,' says Janet Antonissen, coordinator of the course. 'Not as idealists on the sidelines, but as boosters within companies, governments and institutions.'

From strategy to implementation

The course - which will start in fall 2025 - is unique in its design. Participants learn how to approach sustainability broadly: from environmental science to circular economy, and from behavior change to sustainability communication. There is a strong focus on current topics such as carbon reduction, ESG legislation, energy transition and supply chain responsibility. In addition, the program combines current knowledge with direct applicability. Students learn how to integrate sustainability into policy, processes and communication. 'It is not a theoretical course, but rather very concrete,' Antonissen emphasizes. 'You work on assignments that you can immediately apply in your own work practice. This makes it a powerful form of learning and change, and Sustainability affects all sectors. A sustainability consultant must understand both the bigger picture and know how to take concrete steps in the workplace.'

Training for real impact

The new course responds to a rapidly growing demand from the labor market. Governments and companies are increasingly expected to act sustainably, but face knowledge and capacity shortages. The sustainability advisor of the future is therefore widely employable: as a policy maker, consultant, project leader or CSR coordinator. 'We are not training do-gooders who are waiting for system change,' Antonissen states firmly. 'We train people who change the system themselves - step by step, substantiated and with conviction.'

To know more?

The Sustainability Advisor course at Fontys Venlo will start in the fall of 2025.