Why study the Green and Sustainable Finance Certificate?

Global surface temperatures are likely to rise under all scenarios by more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2040 and by more than 2°C later in the century without dramatic and sustainable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. This underpins the urgency and importance of aligning finance with the objectives of the Paris Agreement, and sustainability in general.

In order to tackle this collective challenge, every finance professional needs to develop a knowledge and understanding of green and sustainable finance.

This global, benchmark qualification, updated for 2023, will help individuals to develop their knowledge, understanding and ability to apply the key principles and core practice of green and sustainable finance.

Benefit from membership of both professional bodies

Awarding body

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Is the Green and Sustainable Finance Certificate right for me?

The broad introduction on this qualification makes it suitable for a range of individuals:

  • Bankers, insurers, investment managers, central bankers and regulators, risk managers, analysts and consultants - If you are already a financial services professional, or wish to become one, this qualification can lead to further areas of study or practice in this area.
  • Firms - Firms wishing to increase their staff knowledge in this area could also use this qualification in induction materials.
  • UK and global audiences – The certificate includes broad financial services sector coverage which is relevant internationally.

Key features:

  • CISI and CBI Student membership – if you register via the CISI, you will become associated with two globally recognised Chartered professional bodies. Join a network of over 50,000 members globally and take advantage of the professional and personal benefits offered by two leading bodies
  • Prepare for a career in green and sustainable finance - this qualification provides an overview of the sector and will help kick start your career
  • Available to all - there are no entry requirements for the Green Finance Certificate, and no prior knowledge of the Green Finance sector is assumed
  • Globally-recognised qualification - awarded by the Chartered Banker Institute, delivered in partnership with the CISI.
  • A fast and affordable recognition – the certificate can be studied for using online resources at your own pace (130 hours of study time required), and is assessed via a 1.5 hour, 75 question test, delivered online with instant results
  • Access to higher level qualifications - The certificate may be studied on a standalone basis but can also act as a contributory module to the three modules required for the Professional Banker Diploma offered by the Chartered Banker Institute
 Factsheet 

Green and Sustainable Finance Certificate

Updated for 2022/23, the Certificate in Green and Sustainable Finance aims to develop the learner’s knowledge, understanding and ability to apply the key principles and core practice of green and sustainable finance.

Specific aims are to increase knowledge and understanding of: Climate change and its impacts | Climate risks and emerging environmental and sustainability risks | The evolution of green and sustainable products and services in the banking, investment and insurance sectors | Increasing awareness of the role of the finance sector and finance professionals in supporting the transition to a low-carbon world.

Syllabus


Delivered in partnership with the Chartered Banker Institute (CBI), success in this exam leads to the CBI Green and Sustainable Finance Certificate. 

Please note that the CISI is not the Awarding Body for this qualification.

 

Qualification structure

This level 4 qualification is achieved by successfully passing a computer based exam of 75 multiple-choice questions.

Exam duration: 1.5 hour
Recommended study time: 130 hours
CPD time: 6 hours upon successful completion

Exam Availability

Exams are booked via the Chartered Banker Institute and are delivered online, with instant results. Remote invigilation is available, enabling learners to schedule exams anytime, anywhere.

Price

The Certificate costs £655 per candidate, including all learning materials, access to the examinations and student membership of both bodies.

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Study support

Self-study

Updated for 2022/23, Principles and Practice of Green and Sustainable Finance includes an online Study Guide for core reading and learning activities as well as interactive eLearning modules, including audio and visual resources, and online quizzes and knowledge checks to enhance understanding of key concepts.

Learning materials are delivered via the Chartered Banker Institute’s learning management solution, which enables learners to access them anywhere, anytime, using most computer, tablet and mobile devices.

The 12 unit programme can be completed in as little as 12 weeks. However, registration lasts for 1 year, so you can also work through at your own pace.

Employer support

Employers can track progress of individuals and cohorts through regular progress reports and learner analytics, enabling timely intervention when necessary. A range of blended support options for employers (eg, tuition, revision workshops) are available on request.

Post Qualification and Membership Opportunities

Both the CISI and the Chartered Banker Institute offer a range of qualifications and membership opportunities to suit those aspiring to work in the sector, right through to the most experienced professionals.

Upon completion, candidates will be entitled to use the designation Green and Sustainable Finance Professional. Continued use of this designation requires the holder to maintain membership with the Chartered Banker Institute and to comply with the Institute's Code of Professional Conduct.

You will also be eligible to join the CISI at Associate level. As a member of the Institute, you will enjoy the recognition of being a professional in a world of increasing competition. The extensive continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities available through the CISI’s suite of membership benefits ensures financial services practitioners can maintain competence and meet the requirements of firms and the regulator.

CISI membership enables you to develop your career, increase your competence and maintain the highest standards of professional integrity. Our programme of free professional benefits assists you to keep up to date with the financial services sector.

To further your theoretical and practical knowledge higher level CISI qualifications can be taken.