Global Culture & Conservation Graduate Certificate

Bridging Science, Spiritual Ecology, and Local Knowledge for Global Impact

This unique hybrid, field-based certificate offers unparalleled opportunities for deep cultural immersion and engagement with the rich interplay of spiritual ecology and local/traditional ecological knowledge. Through travel to some of the most culturally and biologically rich regions of the planet (India, Thailand, Paraguay, Belize, or Guyana), students will gain practical experience in understanding how diverse spiritual, cultural, and belief systems (like Hinduism, Buddhism, Guarani, Kriol/Maya, and Makushi cultures, among others) can successfully support and integrate with conservation efforts. This program develops critical skills for communicating about and leading holistic initiatives that protect biodiversity within human-integrated landscapes.

This flexible, two-course certificate is designed for working professionals and students seeking to enhance their applied skills. The format combines online learning during the summer term with a required 10-day intensive field experience for each course. Note that while the core focus of the certificate is on the integration between culture and conservation, the 10-day field experiences provide a holistic conservation view, including exposure to restoration efforts, community-based conservation, country history, and instructor and student-led group discussions.

To complete the certificate, students must request placement in two graduate courses from below. The credential is generally earned over two years. Completed certificate courses can count towards a Project Dragonfly master's degree, provided the student applies and is accepted into the program. Enrollment in any class is contingent on space availability, with priority for placements given to current master’s students.

Program Requirements

(10 semester hours)

*Courses used to earn this certificate (e.g. Belize) cannot be used to earn another certificate.