DefineU Opens ESG Online Course in Collaboration with UCLA

DefineU Co., an academic consulting company, has signed an educational program agreement with UCLA Extension in the United States and will jointly conduct the "ESG and Sustainability Program," Korea's first customized course.

ESG stands for Environment, Social, and Governance, referring to three non-financial factors used to evaluate the sustainable management of investment target companies. For example, from an environmental perspective, the increase in socio-economic instability triggered by climate change and resulting natural disasters undermines the stable foundation of corporate management, leading investors to carefully consider selecting companies that are well-prepared to respond to such long-term risks. In response, ESG is a new management paradigm that manages risks and opportunities by fulfilling environmental and social responsibilities and ensuring transparent decision-making.

This course explains the basic concepts and principles of ESG step-by-step, viewing sustainability as based on the value of all stakeholders rather than just shareholders. It also demonstrates how ESG can be both a challenge and an opportunity in corporate operations. Specifically, from an environmental perspective, it covers understanding the causes and impacts of climate change and presents new ways for companies to be part of the solution rather than the problem. Regarding corporate social responsibility, it analyzes complex issues faced by organizational leaders and proposes leadership for competitive advantage. From a governance perspective, it clearly illustrates the interests of corporate finance, investment, and shareholders through global best practices.

The course also focuses on rich case studies. It presents applicable frameworks through cases for sustainable business execution and best practices in finance and HR, explains ESG-related trends and future forecasts, and develops a roadmap to link core business strategies with ESG reporting. Participants are expected to gain an accurate understanding of ESG management concepts, principles, and real-world cases, as well as concrete execution capabilities.

UCLA Extension, established in 1917, is the institution responsible for continuing education at UCLA. The UCLA Extension faculty will lead this course, and a certificate of completion will be issued to those who complete more than 80% of the program. DefineU Co. will also support alumni and community activities, including offline formats, as well as provide other ESG-related consulting and information.

This course will be conducted online over six weeks (2 hours per session) starting November 6, with English subtitles provided. Applications will close on October 28.