Certificates

Our environmental certificate programs prepare students to lead in sustainability, conservation and outdoor recreation. 

River Studies and Leadership Certificate

The River Studies and Leadership Certificate program is designed for undergraduate and graduate students who are inspired to join the next generation of river scholars, stewards and professionals. Offered in partnership with the River Management Society, this certificate provides a foundation of knowledge, skills and experience in river-based science, policy, conservation, education and recreation. This certificate adds valuable focus to a student's degree and offers employment advantages through networking and professional development with the River Management Society. Graduates are equipped to address the real-world challenges facing our nation's rivers.

Sustainable Innovation Certificate

The Certificate in Sustainable Innovation is an interdisciplinary program available to students in any VCU undergraduate major who wish to develop a deeper understanding of sustainability and apply sustainable approaches to real-world problem-solving. The certificate emphasizes systems thinking and draws from a diverse set of sustainability-related courses across the university. 

Outdoor Leadership Certificate

The Outdoor Leadership Certificate prepares undergraduates for work in a variety of professional outdoor leadership contexts such as natural resource management, environmental stewardship, outdoor education, outdoor recreation and adventure tourism. Students will develop outdoor leadership competencies and gain knowledge in environmental stewardship, safety and risk management and group dynamics. The curriculum will focus on educating students in the theory, processes and skills required for work in the field of outdoor recreation and education. Students should expect to gain experience in leadership and decision making through experiential opportunities and field based learning. Graduates will be able to design and facilitate outdoor adventure experiences.