Graduate Certificate in Applied Sustainability
The Graduate Certificate in Applied Sustainability provides a unique interdisciplinary perspective on what it takes to make urban and economic development compatible with the natural environment. The coursework guides students through the foundations of ecology; current theories of sustainability; methods for optimizing important resources such as energy and water; building management techniques; and the politics, law, and economics of the global green movement.
This certificate is appropriate for individuals currently in roles as sustainability professionals as well as those seeking to enter this expanding and high-demand field. Architects, facilities managers, city planners, and IT experts have the opportunity to fill gaps in their existing knowledge, whereas those just beginning careers in these and related fields will gain the foundation to make green thinking central to their work from the outset.
Learning Outcomes
- Analyze and assess the economic, environmental, political, social, and equity issues around urban environmental sustainability to prioritize and develop sustainable solutions.
- Lead and work effectively with socially diverse stakeholder groups, to evaluate and create sustainable and equitable planning and policy options.
- Demonstrate an awareness of the legal and political dimensions of environmental protection and regulation.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between human and environmental systems and environmental sustainability.
- Incorporate broad resources and use evidence-based approaches to evaluate and create sustainable planning and policy options.
Admissions Information
For current admissions information, please visit the Metropolitan College website.
Transfer of Credits
The Graduate Certificate in Applied Sustainability can be earned as a stand-alone certificate or combined with the Master of Urban Affairs and Master of City Planning degree programs. Credits for UA courses within this certificate program may be applied to the Master of Urban Affairs or Master of City Planning degree programs, but not to other certificate programs.
Program Requirements
The minimum passing grade for a course in the graduate certificate program is B– (2.7), but an average grade of B (3.0) must be maintained to be in good academic standing and satisfy the certificate requirements. Applicants to the program are required to have a bachelor’s degree. Some courses may have additional prerequisites.
A total of four courses (16 credits) is required and distributed as follows:
Foundation Courses (two courses/8 credits)
- MET UA 617 Actionable Sustainability
- MET UA 627 Sustainable Cities
Elective Courses (two courses/8 credits)
The two elective courses can be selected per student interest from a list of pre-approved courses, across different disciplines, offered at Metropolitan College and University-wide. Additional courses may be approved in consultation with the academic advisor. A complete list of approved electives for the certificate can be obtained from the department.
