What it is
The SDG Academy is an initiative of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, offering free massive open online courses (MOOCs) on all 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Courses are taught by faculty from Harvard, Columbia, Oxford, and other institutions, covering climate, energy, food systems, health, and economic development.
Why we picked this
Free, university-quality education on every dimension of sustainability. The SDG framework provides the most comprehensive structure for understanding how climate, economy, health, and equity connect. These courses are the best self-directed learning path available.
Key takeaways
- All courses are free to audit, with optional certificates for a fee, making world-class sustainability education accessible regardless of income.
- The SDG framework connects 17 goals across 169 targets, showing how climate action intersects with poverty, health, gender equity, and economic development.
- Courses are regularly updated and taught by active researchers, ensuring content reflects current science and policy rather than textbook knowledge.