Certificate in Sustainable Development
The Sustainable Development Certificate is intended for students interested in incorporating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) into their current practice and skills. This certificate increases sustainable development competency both internationally and domestically and to prepare students for a career in private industry, the government, or a non-governmental organization.
Certificate Overview
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles and concepts of sustainable development, including the three pillars of sustainability: economic, social, and environmental.
This certificate is intended to be an accelerated program and students can complete the certificate within an academic year. The certificate is available to individuals who are 1) pursuing any academic programs at the University of Tennessee or 2) a current student at an outside accredited 4-year post-secondary institution or 3) post-baccalaureate and enrolled solely in the certificate program.
Why study Sustainable Development
Sustainability Challenges
Develop an awareness of global sustainability challenges and an understanding of the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental issues on a global scale.
Environmental Systems
Acquire knowledge about environmental systems, ecosystems, biodiversity, and the impact of human activities on the natural environment.
Systems Thinking
Develop a systems thinking approach to analyze complex issues and understand the interconnected nature of social, economic, and environmental factors in sustainable development.
Address Global Challenges
Gain the knowledge and skills to contribute to solutions for global issues like climate change, resource depletion, and social inequality.
Career Advancement
Sustainability is a rapidly growing priority
across industries. Employers are increasingly seeking professionals with expertise in sustainable practices.
Enhance Your Impact
Implement practices in organizations that reduce environmental impact, promote social responsibility, and contribute to long-term economic viability.
What can you do with a certificate in Sustainable Development after graduation?
This certificate equips students with familiarity in sustainability through in-classroom curriculum and real-world hands-on experiences. Here are a few careers that benefit from this certificate.
Sustainability Coordinator
A Sustainability Coordinator implements and manages sustainability initiatives within an organization, such as reducing waste and improving energy efficiency.
Sustainability Analyst
A Sustainability Analyst analyzes data related to sustainability metrics and provide insights to help organizations improve their sustainability performance.
Environmental Consultant
A Environmental Consultant advises businesses and governments on environmental best practices, compliance with regulations, and sustainability strategies.
Policy Analyst
A Policy Analyst researches and develops policies related to sustainable development for governments, NGOs, and other organizations.
Featured Courses
Sustainability courses give students in-depth knowledge of sustainability on a local, national, and global level and equip them with sought-after skills and knowledge.
SUST 101
Transdisciplinary Perspectives on Sustainability
Explore sustainability challenges through holistic and transdisciplinary lens. Students gain knowledge from various fields to address complex issues related to environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Through theoretical frameworks, case studies, and collaborative projects, students develop a foundational understanding of sustainability and cultivate the skills needed for effective problem-solving in a rapidly changing world.
GEOG 440
Global Perspectives on Urban Sustainability
Urban sustainability issues as they apply locally and globally, with an emphasis on case studies of problems and solutions at urban sites. Course addresses a range of social, technical, and scientific issues that are part of urban sustainability.
ALEC 485
Global Sustainable Development Goals
This course will provide a transdisciplinary introduction and assessment of global SDGs. The course will present each of the SDGs, look at global progress towards each SDG, and provide opportunities for students to explore the synergies of the SDGs.
GEOG 333
Climate Change and Human Response
Controversies and uncertainties about present-day climate change, future climate scenarios and mitigation strategies, and individual and policy responses to climate predictions.
Related Programs, Certificates & Minors
CECS offers innovative, customizable majors, minors, and certificates in areas of emerging technology and the skills required by the workforce of the future.
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If you have questions about the Sustainable Development certificate or navigating the application process, contact us.
