Graduate Certificate in Sustainability
Next start date is October 25. No GRE needed and applying is free!!
Become a leader
in environmental sustainability.
Sustainability is a problem-based, solution-oriented framework for creating a resilient civilization. Mitigation and adaptation to climate change is emphasized along with biodiversity conservation, resource conservation, and mitigation of pollution. Students within this graduate certificate should expect to explore, debate, and research possible sustainability solutions from a variety of viewpoints.
Program Overview
Unity College is known as a leader in sustainability and sustainability science. This certificate is a natural fit for individuals wanting post-baccalaureate experience and understanding of sustainability. Students can easily continue on to earn their master’s.
Program Features
+ One-on-one academic and professional advising as our world-class faculty and trained staff strive to make your professional and academic goals a reality.
+ Unity College is an accredited institution by New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
+ Experiential Online. Experiential programs are delivered 100% online with fieldwork designed with the working professional in mind.
+ Study when and where you want and finish your certificate while still working full-time.
+ Make professional connections with leaders in your field.
Learn Specialized Skills
Climate Dynamics
Our world is battling climate change and the effects it is having on ecosystems. Students will choose a topic and discover the challenges facing the issue. They will research different solutions and how each will affect outcomes. Students will use theoretical frameworks, scientific research, empirical data, and/or case studies to inform their proposals.
Leading Sustainable Change
Learn to be a leader for sustainable change. Students learn how to implement plans to create change that is customized to the stakeholders. Students develop a professional portfolio that explains their carefully researched and developed plans for sustainability-oriented changes in the workplace. Leadership requires continuous learning, adjusting, and innovation. Students gain important leadership skills and are encouraged to continue learning in all professional pursuits.
Community Planning for Resiliency
Students are given the opportunity to focus on assessment, vulnerability, sustainability, and resilience in their choice of case studies. Students are tasked with researching options and alternatives of existing populations, structures, and trends in their choice of a neighborhood or community. They consider the broad range of challenges that confront planners in assessing and reducing vulnerability, increasing resilience, and ultimately fostering sustainable communities. Students will develop plans for sustainability based on their research.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How much does it cost?
Your online education should be affordable and manageable. Our team of distance education concierges will work with you through the admissions process to help you plan and pay for your degree. Learn more about the costs here.
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How fast can I finish?
It depends on whether you plan on taking one or two classes per term, and if you take a term off. Our distance education concierges and academic advisors are here to help you plan and stick to your educational goals. Talk to us today!
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What courses will I be taking?
For course requirements, browse the Graduate Certificate in Sustainability. Then apply online for free to get started.
- Do you have more information that I can download?
Experts in the Field
At Unity College, our Faculty is comprised of a wide range of environmental science experts who in addition to teaching, conduct their own research and various fieldwork.
Dr. Tamara Lawless
Instructor of Environmental Justice
Dr. Tamara Lawless holds a Ph.D in Sustainability from Arizona State University, a M.S. in Environmental Education from the Expedition Education Institute, and a B.S. in Conservation Biology and Environmental Studies from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.
Dr. Lawless brings value to her students from her vast fieldwork experience. She has worked on a variety of sustainability issues including water scarcity, climate change resiliency and adaptation, childhood obesity, social justice, and food insecurity throughout her career. She is a firm believer in sustainability solutions that are driven by the community in which they are embedded. With training in sustainability science, community outreach, environmental education, and governmental affairs, she takes great joy in mentoring students to tackle the complex challenges posed by sustainability problems.
Degree Requirements
The Graduate Certificate in Sustainability requires a minimum of 12 earned credit hours. For all degree requirements, check out the Graduate Certificate in Sustainability checksheet or the Unity College Distance Education Course Catalog.
Career Outlook
Earn your degree.
Unlock new opportunities.
Median pay for sustainability program directors in 2018.
Projected 10-year growth of sustainable-community planners.
Median salary of Unity College Environmental Studies and Sustainability alumni working in their field.
Median pay for sustainability program directors in 2018.
Projected 10-year growth of sustainable-community planners.
Median salary of Unity College Environmental Studies and Sustainability alumni working in their field.
*Source: Burning Glass Technologies. “Labor Insight™ Real-Time Labor Market Information Tool.” Updated March 11, 2020.
Careers and Outcomes
Follow your curiosity.
Realize your potential.
Faculty Profiles
