Study the complex relationship between humans and the world around us and make a meaningful impact on our global economy. This certificate is offered mostly online.
Gain the knowledge to develop the analytical, problem-solving and communications skills necessary to succeed in a growing field.
The UCLA Extension Environmental Studies Certificate prepares students to be subject matter experts under the instruction of industry and sustainability professionals.
Our four-course program covers the physical environment, ecosystems, the ocean and climate change. It provides a foundation for careers such as environmental scientists, research assistants, analysts, certified hazardous materials managers and environmental protection technicians.
Potential Job Paths:
Did you know? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2024—Employment of environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.
International students are welcome to take the Environmental Studies Certificate, however, all four courses are in the online format. Since international students must take at least 12 units (typically 3 courses) every quarter to maintain F-1 Visa requirements, of which only one can be online, it is recommended that international students complete the Environmental Studies Certificate and the Sustainability Certificate simultaneously because Sustainability courses can be taken on-ground or online.
The Sustainability Certificate is comprised of 5 courses, while the Environmental Studies Certificate is comprised of 4 courses. Together, this is 9 courses. Completing three courses each quarter for a total of three quarters fulfills the visa requirements and will earn you two certificates in very related fields. This is also a recommended schedule for domestic students.
Please note:
International students approved to study full time in the U.S. on an F-1 visa must meet English language proficiency requirements for admission.
Learn more:
Learn how our programs in sustainability and environmental studies can help you achieve your career goals in this informative online session, with an opportunity for Q&A.
Click below to view the required and elective courses, if applicable, for this program.
All courses in this program are paid for individually, unless otherwise noted. An application form is required to establish candidacy in this program. From the 'Apply Now' button, complete the online application and pay the application fee if applicable.
The U.S. Department of Education requires colleges and universities to disclose certain information for any financial aid eligible program that, “prepares students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation”. This information includes program costs; occupations that the program prepares students to enter; occupational profiles; on time completion rate; and for the most recent award year: the number of students who have completed the program, the number of students who complete the program within the estimated duration, the job placement rate, and the median Title IV and private loan debt incurred by those who complete the program. For gainful employment information for this program, visit our Financial Aid page.
Rebecca Shipe, UCLA Professor, Institute of the Environment and Sustainability
Dr. Carol Armstrong, Chief of Staff to Deputy Mayor Barbara Romero, Los Angeles River Works
Stephanie Landregan, Program Director, Landscape Architecture, Horticulture and Gardening, UCLA Extension
Scott Hutchinson, Program Director, Arts, UCLA Extension
Michelle Kinman, Clean Energy Advocate, Environment California/Environment California Research & Policy Center
Bahram Fazeli, Director of Research & Policy, Communities for a Better Environment
Kaya Foster, Student Program Director, Sustainable Works
Noah Garrison, Environmental Science Practicum Director, Institute of the Environment and Sustainability
Nurit Katz, Chief Sustainability Officer, Executive Officer, Facilities Management, UCLA, Extension Instructor
Michael Smith, National Chapter Representative, California Association of Environmental Professions, Extension Instructor
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