The sustainability sector is a continuously growing field with an increased demand for educated, certified professionals. Sustainability certificates help you get the specialized skills and knowledge needed to pursue your career in this industry.
Accredited colleges and universities can offer a great sustainability certificate program. Some topics for sustainability certificate programs include sustainability practices and initiatives, renewable energy, green building, sustainable agriculture, and other sustainable current practices.
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An undergrad sustainability college certificate prepares students for careers in the sustainability field, while the best graduate sustainability certificate programs offer a more comprehensive education in sustainability to graduate students. These programs typically offer internships and other opportunities so students can gain real-world experience.
What Is a Sustainability Certificate College Program?
A sustainability certificate college program is an educational program focused on sustainable practices. Accredited colleges and universities typically offer these programs. Students learn about renewable energy, green buildings, sustainable agriculture, agricultural products and materials.
What’s the Difference Between a College Sustainability Certificate and Professional Certification in Sustainability?
A college sustainability certificate is an academic credential earned by completing a sustainability program at an accredited college or university. A professional certification in sustainability is a voluntary credential earned by passing an exam and meeting other requirements set by a professional organization.
Sustainability College Certificate vs. Sustainability Certification: Key Differences
| Sustainability Certificate | Sustainability Certification |
|---|---|
| A sustainability certificate is an academic credential provided by an accredited college or university | A sustainability certification is a professional credential provided by an industry organization |
| It is provided by a college or university as a certificate program | A professional body provides it, like the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) |
| It takes more than a few months to complete | It takes just a few months to complete |
How Long Does It Take To Get a Sustainability Certificate at College?
It takes approximately one to two years to get a sustainability certificate at college. The length of time it takes to earn a sustainability college certificate varies depending on the program and how many credits the certificate program requires.
Best Sustainability Certificate Undergraduate Programs
| Schools | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Energy and Sustainability Certificate | $5,919 |
| Clemson University | Renewable Energy Certificate | $16,000 |
| Duke University | Certificate in Sustainability Engagement | $30,218 |
| Temple University | Certificate in Environmental Sustainability | $16,448 |
| Princeton University | Sustainable Energy Certificate | $57,410 |
| University of Georgia | Sustainability Certificate | $12,080 |
| University of Illinois | Certificate in Environmental Sustainability | $17,138 to $22,324 |
| University of Pittsburgh | Sustainability Certificate | $21,178 |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | Sustainable Enterprise Certificate | $4,748 |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | Environmental Studies Certificate | $4,748 |
| Utah Tech University | Sustainability Certificate | $3,037 |
Best Undergraduate Sustainability Certificate Programs: Explained
While an undergraduate degree in sustainability is a great place to start your educational journey, getting an undergraduate sustainability certificate will further prove your competency to potential employers. We discuss the best undergraduate sustainability certificate programs in the section below, including the cost of attendance and minimum education requirement.
Students of this Arizona State University program get a better grasp of the technology and infrastructure for generating, distributing, and utilizing energy. They also learn about the accompanying sustainability challenges and social and policy components of energy systems. This 15-credit course can be offered as a stand-alone program.
Energy and Sustainability Certificate Details
- Cost: $784/credit (in state); $1,248/credit (out of state)
- Length: 15 credits
- Learning Format: In-person
- Minimum Education: High school diploma
- Other Requirements: None
This Clemson University program is offered by the Holcombe Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and deals with the challenges of renewable energy such as wind and solar. Much of the training is geared toward helping engineers better understand renewable energy systems, which are crucial in tackling climate change.
Renewable Energy Certificate Details
- Cost: $7,560/semester (in state); $19,056/semester (out of state)
- Length: 9 credits
- Learning Format: In-person
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Must be a fully registered undergraduate student
The sustainability engagement certificate from Duke University offers undergraduate students a chance to become leaders in a world that has long gone beyond infinite resources, a healthy climate, stable demographics, and ongoing progress.
Certificate in Sustainability Engagement Details
- Cost: $1,860/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: In-person
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Must be a fully registered undergraduate student
Temple University’s program combines botany, city planning, community development, horticulture, and landscape architecture to provide students an interdisciplinary viewpoint. Students obtain the foundational knowledge required to assess environmental practices and develop ecologically, socially, and economically sustainable solutions.
Certificate in Environmental Sustainability Details
- Cost: $687/credit (in state); 1,238/credit (out of state)
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: In-person
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Students of this Princeton University program learn how to handle environmental challenges adequately. They are taught climate change and geo-environmental science. Students enrolled in this program are encouraged to go for internships at government agencies and laboratories.
Sustainability Energy Certificate Details
- Cost: $57,410/year
- Length: N/A
- Learning Format: In-person
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Must be a fully registered undergraduate student
The sustainability certificate at University of Georgia combines applied learning in multidisciplinary settings with real-world solutions to address global sustainability concerns. The sustainability certificate focuses on seven essential competencies required to manage complex sustainability issues following the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Sustainability Certificate Details
- Cost: $2,909/6 credits or less (in state); $8,555/6 credits or less (out of state)
- Length: 17 credits
- Learning Format: In-person
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Must be a fully registered undergraduate student
Students learn about the interconnection of the world's environmental, economic, and social systems through this University of Illinois program. Human institutions, organizations, cultures, and technology are all affected by various factors, and this program examines unique methods of finding answers through innovative techniques.
Certificate in Environmental Sustainability Details
- Cost: $409/credit
- Length: 15 to 17 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
To equip science, engineering, and humanities students with fundamental skills in sustainability, they must contribute swiftly and effectively to the development and eventual application of sustainable technologies, science, and practices in the United States and across the world. The Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation at the University of Pittsburgh offers this certificate.
Sustainability Certificate Details
- Cost: $882/credit (in state); $1,582/credit (out of state)
- Length: 18 credits
- Learning Format: In-person
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
This UW-Madison certificate provides business ideas that will help a business increase its capacity to adopt sustainability projects. Students enrolled in this program must take four courses of three units each, totaling 12 credits. The program is offered online, and students can learn at their own pace.
Sustainable Enterprise Certificate Details
- Cost: $461/credit (in state); $1,623/credit (out of state)
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma
- Other Requirements: None
Students are encouraged by this University of Wisconsin-Madison course content to investigate different viewpoints due to the multidisciplinary nature of sustainability. As a result, this certificate presents a wide range of perspectives applicable to complicated issues encountered in our communities, workplaces, and personal lives.
Environmental Studies Certificate Details
- Cost: $461/credit (in state); $1,623/credit (out of state)
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Students learn to examine the advantages of traditional and renewable energy systems like those used in transportation, food production, and energy security. Students also learn how to transition to sustainable energy operations and develop environmental, economic, behavioral, and sustainable ways to address energy and earth science concerns.
Sustainability Certificate Details
- Cost: $219/credit (in state); $702/credit (out of state)
- Length: 24 credits
- Learning Format: In-person
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Sustainability College Certificate Program vs Sustainability Associate Degree
A certificate in sustainability is typically offered by a college or university as part of their continuing education program. It is designed for students who want to gain knowledge and skills in sustainability to make a positive impact on society. A certificate program generally consists of four to six courses and can be completed in one year or less.
An Associate Degree in Sustainability is a two-year undergraduate degree offered by many colleges and universities. An associate degree provides a broad overview of sustainability topics and can prepare students for a career in the field or further study at the bachelor’s level. The factors that make a certificate and an associate degree different are:
- Program length. A certificate program is generally shorter, taking one year or less to complete. An associate degree typically takes two years to complete.
- Curriculum. Certificate programs generally consist of four to six courses, while an associate degree program consists of around 60 credit hours, including general education requirements.
- Cost. A certificate program is typically less expensive than an associate degree since it requires fewer credit hours.
- Career prospects. An associate degree may provide better career prospects than a certificate alone since it is a higher level of education. However, both types of programs can lead to careers in sustainability.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Associate Degrees
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Is an Undergraduate Sustainability Certificate Worth It?
Yes, an undergraduate sustainability certificate is worth it as it can give you the skills and knowledge you need and is a great option if you don’t have the time or money to complete a full degree. Many employers value continuing education and professional development, so completing a certificate program can make you a more attractive job candidate.
Best Sustainability Certificate Graduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Graduate Certificate in Sustainability | $12,000 |
| Drexel University | Graduate Certificate in Sustainable and Green Construction | $34,000 |
| Harvard University | Graduate Certificate in Sustainability | $15,000 |
| Louisiana State University | Graduate Certificate in Environmental & Energy Policy | $9,000 |
| Penn State University | Graduate Certificate in Solar Energy | $23,000 |
| Stanford University | Energy Innovation and Emerging Technologies Certificate | $12,000 |
| Texas A & M University | Graduate Certificate in Energy | $15,000 |
| University of California-Los Angeles | Graduate Certificate in Sustainability | $14,000 |
| University of Colorado-Boulder | Graduate Certificate in Renewable and Sustainable Energy | $22,000 |
| University of Massachusetts | Graduate Certificate in Renewable Energy Engineering | $19,000 |
Best Graduate Sustainability Certificate Programs Explained
The best graduate sustainability certificate programs can help you advance your career in sustainability. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 graduate sustainability certificates to help you further your career in the green business sector, many of which are online programs for busy professionals unable to attend in-person classes.
Through electives, this Arizona State University sustainability certificate program allows you to explore your unique areas of interest. You'll have a variety of electives to choose from, ranging from policy and international development to clean air and water, providing you with a broader grasp of specific sustainability ideas.
Graduate Certificate in Sustainability Details
- Cost: $557/credit
- Length: 15 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: A minimum of 3.0 GPA
Drexel University’s curriculum analyzes the ideas stated in the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building grading system and focuses on the sustainable components of the construction process. Graduates can then apply these principles to project teams' decision-making processes.
Graduate Certificate in Sustainable & Green Construction Details
- Cost: $1,342/credit
- Length: 15 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, letters of recommendation, essay, and resume
Students at Harvard University learn how to put sustainability plans swiftly into action in local government, community, and various other framework settings. Fundamental concepts such as greenhouse emissions guidelines, environmental economics, sustainable supply chain management, and sustainable building design are explored.
Graduate Certificate in Sustainability Details
- Cost: $745/credit
- Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: None
This Louisiana State University program combines public policy and natural sciences to provide students the chance to investigate energy and environmental science issues in depth. Critical abilities in renewable and non-renewable energy sources as they relate to economic, scientific, and regulatory pressures are included in the program.
Certificate in Environmental and Energy Policy Details
- Cost: $546/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: None
A solar energy graduate certificate from Penn State University adds value to your resume. This online graduate certificate program gives you access to a cutting-edge solar energy curriculum taught by world-class instructors. You benefit from the ease and flexibility of being able to complete your course work at times that are convenient for you and your existing schedule.
Graduate Certificate in Solar Energy Details
- Cost: $950/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: English language proficiency for international students
The Energy Innovation and Emerging Technologies Program (EIET) at Stanford University looks at new technologies, regulations, economics, finance, and management that will change the way we get, distribute, store, and consume energy. You may tailor your study to your interests by choosing online energy courses.
Energy Innovation and Emerging Technologies Certificate Details
- Cost: $395/course
- Length: 2 months
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: None
In this multidisciplinary curriculum from Texas A&M University, students learn about renewable, fossil-based, and non-fossil-based energy systems, as well as multi-scale energy systems. Energy economics, security, legislation, societal effects, and policies are all included. Students can opt to engage fully online in this program or attend it in person.
Graduate Certificate in Energy Details
- Cost: $77/credit (in state); $486/credit (out of state)
- Length: 10 months
- Learning Format: In-person and online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: None
Through the sustainability certificate provided by the University of California-Los Angeles, students gain a practical, comprehensive, multidisciplinary foundation for up to mid-level professionals. UCLA Extension's sustainability certificate prepares students to significantly influence the world.
Graduate Certificate in Sustainability Details
- Cost: $3,480/year
- Length: 20 credits
- Learning Format: Online or in-person
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: None
University of Colorado-Boulder’s program equips students with skills in renewable and sustainable energy. You can specialize in acquiring the cutting-edge technical abilities necessary to design renewable energy systems or focus on managing renewable engineering projects and systems.
Graduate Certificate in Renewable and Sustainable Energy Details
- Cost: $676/credit
- Length: 9 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: 3.00 GPA required
This four-course online renewable energy graduate certificate program at University of Massachusetts-Lowell is designed to provide engineers a thorough but practical understanding of the principles of the renewable energy system and technology design, research, development, and production.
Graduate Certificate in Renewable Energy Engineering Details
- Cost: $590/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Your official transcripts
Sustainability Graduate Certificate Program vs Sustainability Master’s Degree
A graduate certificate in sustainability is for working adults who want to gain knowledge and skills in sustainability, but don’t have the time or desire to complete a full degree. A certificate program generally consists of four to six courses and can be completed in one year or less.
A Master’s Degree in Sustainability provides more advanced knowledge and skills in sustainability than a certificate program and prepares students for a career in the field or for further study at the doctoral level. The main differences between a graduate certificate and a master’s degree are:
- The duration of a program. A certificate program is generally shorter, taking one year or less to complete. A master’s degree typically takes two years to complete.
- The course content. A certificate program consists of four to six courses, while a master’s degree program consists of around 30 credit hours, including a thesis or research project.
- The cost of tuition. A certificate program is typically less expensive than a master’s degree since it requires fewer credit hours.
- The career opportunities upon program completion. A master’s degree provides better career prospects than a certificate since it is a higher level of education. However, both types of programs can lead to careers in sustainability.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Best Master’s Degrees
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Is a Graduate Sustainability Certificate Worth It?
A graduate certificate in sustainability is worth it because you can use the knowledge and skills that can advance your career. Certificate holders can bring forth effective and sustainable solutions to global issues. Future sustainability goals aim to create a better world for all people, not just those already wealthy or privileged.
Sustainability Certificate Program Coursework
Most certificate programs in sustainability require courses in environmental policy, sustainable energy, management, climate change, social justice, forest ecology, conservation biology, and renewable energy.
Climate Change, Energy, and Social Justice
This course covers the topics on climate change and how we can address it through renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, geothermal, biomass, tidal, hydroelectricity, and biofuels. It looks at the role of government, business, and individuals in climate change.
Ecology and Conservation Biology
Students study living organisms, their interactions with each other, and their environments. Students explore ecosystems and biodiversity, the effects humans have on nature, and the need to preserve natural habitats in this program in ecology. They also learn about conservation history and why some species are considered endangered while others thrive.
Environmental Policy
This course looks at environmental policies from an economic perspective and how these policies affect our environment. Environmental practices are taught, including air pollution control, water quality standards, pesticide regulation, hazardous waste management, and solid waste disposal are discussed.
Sustainable Energy and Management
This course explores alternative forms of energy production, including nuclear power, fossil fuels, hydropower, wind, solar, geothermal, ocean thermal, biomass, and hydrogen fuel cells. It also examines ways to manage energy resources more efficiently by looking at conservation, energy efficiency, demand response, distributed generation, sustainable materials, and non-sustainable products.
Renewable Energy
This course introduces students to renewable energy sources, including wind, solar, geothermic, tidal, hydroelectric, and biofuels. Students gain an understanding of renewable energy systems, the pros and cons of renewable energy, and how to design clean energy solutions.
Best Online College Courses for Credit
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What Can You Do With a Sustainability Certificate from College?
With a sustainability certificate, you can pursue careers in environmental or conservation science, environmental engineering, and energy. The labor market will see a 105 percent increase in green occupations between 2016 and 2026, as reported by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Best Sustainability Jobs and Careers With a Certificate
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Environmental Engineers | $96,820 |
| Environmental Scientists and Specialists | $76,530 |
| Conservation Scientists and Foresters | $63,750 |
| Wind Turbine Technicians | $56,260 |
| Solar Photovoltaic Installers | $47,670 |
Best Sustainability Certificate Jobs and Careers: Explained
The section below details the best sustainability certificate jobs. Whether you want to pursue a high-paying career in energy, environmental science, or forestry products, having a sustainability certificate will benefit you in the hiring process.
Environmental engineers work to promote recycling and recycled products, waste disposal, human health, and pollution management in the water and air to improve environmental quality. They also address hazardous drinking water, climate change, and environmental sustainability worldwide.
- Average Salary: $96,820
- Job Outlook: 4% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: A Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering and a graduate certificate in sustainability will make you a good fit
Environmental scientists apply their natural science expertise to safeguard the environment and human health. They clean up contaminated regions, provide policy advice, or collaborate with businesses to decrease waste.
- Average Salary: $76,530
- Job Outlook: 8% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: A bachelor’s degree and a graduate certificate in sustainability
The total land quality of forests, parks, rangelands, and other natural resources is managed by conservation scientists and foresters. They ensure compliance with government rules and habitat protection by overseeing forestry and conservation initiatives and sustainable forest management practices.
- Average Salary: $63,750
- Job Outlook: 7% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: A Bachelor’s Degree in Forestry and a graduate certificate in sustainability
Wind turbine service technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing wind turbines. Wind techs use safety harnesses and different hand and power tools to do the job. They must troubleshoot the wind turbine systems to ensure their effectiveness.
- Average Salary: $56,260
- Job Outlook: 68% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: An undergraduate certificate and on-the-job training
Solar photovoltaic (PV) installers assemble, install, and maintain solar photovoltaic systems on rooftops or other structures that convert sunlight into electricity. They routinely test the PV systems and perform maintenance as necessary.
- Average Salary: $47,670
- Job Outlook: 52% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: A high school diploma and an undergraduate certificate in sustainability
Should I Also Get a Sustainability Certification?
Yes, you should get a sustainability certification. Some of the many benefits of sustainability certification programs are that they give you credibility when applying for jobs and help you stand out among your peers. The certification process is conducted by professional or industry bodies and is typically awarded after the successful completion of an exam.
The sustainability certification process makes you an opportune candidate for driving positive environmental, economic, and social impact. Below are some common certifications offered by top certification bodies to boost your resume so you can make a positive impact on society.
Best Sustainability Certifications
- Certified Sustainable Development Professional (CSDP). This certification is offered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). You must write an exam to be certified. Eligible candidates are those with several years of experience in a related field.
- Sustainability and Climate Risk Certificate (SCR). The Global Association of Risk Professionals provides this certification program. With this certification, you become a leading professional in sustainability standards. You must pass the exam to be certified.
- Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv). The Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) offers this certification. A Chartered Environmentalist registration shows that you operate at the highest level possible in the environmental profession.
- Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). The US Green Building Council provides this certification. The LEED Green Associate test assesses your understanding of green building methods and your ability to assist others working on LEED projects. The test is designed for people who are new to green construction.
- Sustainability Excellence Associate (SEA). The International Society of Sustainability Professionals offers this certification for those new to the sustainability sector. The certification exams can be taken online or in person.
Best Professional Certifications
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Is a College Certificate for Sustainability Worth It?
A college certificate for sustainability is worth it, as it holds more value than just earning credits for a degree program. A college certificate for sustainability allows you to change the world around you and improve human health positively. If you want to make an environmental impact and change the course of human health, then a college certificate for sustainability could be precisely what you’re looking for.
Sustainability Certificates FAQ
A sustainability certificate is a credential that helps individuals understand how to live sustainably. It provides information about environmental practices, issues, how to be energy efficient, renewable resources, and sustainable living. Depending on the certificate acquired, a professional can work in top companies that hire environmental engineers.
A sustainability certificate allows you to earn credits toward a degree program while also giving you the chance to positively impact the world. If you are looking to get a certificate or a degree, ensure you research both thoroughly before deciding. Another benefit is that a sustainability certificate can open up job opportunities and help you access an advanced career in the public or private sector.
Yes, most schools and especially graduate schools, provide online options for sustainability certificates. Since these certificates are primarily offered online, you can access them from anywhere with an Internet connection, making them flexible.
Most schools allow you to use your sustainability certificate after graduation. If you do not plan on continuing your education, you may want to look into other options, such as online courses or non-degree programs. You can also have access to high-paying jobs that only need a certificate and pursue a career for various environmental organizations or for a non-profit organization.
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