Sustainability
Certificate, undergraduate
Sustainability skills for every career path
If you're looking to make a real difference in the world, this 12-credit sustainability undergraduate certificate gives you the foundation to do just that — no matter your major.
You’ll explore how ecological health, economic prosperity and social equity intersect across our planet and community. Through intentional coursework in integrative, ecological, economic and social sustainability, you'll build the skills to help create sustainable solutions in Idaho and beyond.
Overview
Related Topics
Turn your passion for the planet into action
Degree fit
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Want to understand the connections between environmental, economic and social systems
- Care about creating sustainable solutions in your community and beyond.
- Are preparing for a career in environmental science, policy, planning, business or education
- Enjoy problem-solving and thinking creatively about resource use and conservation
- Want to add sustainability expertise to your current major or career path
- Are passionate about making a positive impact on the planet
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,397 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Natural Sciences Managers • Water Resource Specialists
$152,883 - Conservation Scientists • Range Managers • Park Naturalists
$77,179 - Environmental Scientists and Specialists • Climate Change Analysts • Environmental Restoration Planners • Industrial Ecologists
$85,618 - Urban and Regional Planners
$91,843 - Transportation Planners
$98,683
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
U of I’s certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid or scholarships on their own. However, students enrolled in a bachelor's or associate degree program may apply their financial aid and scholarships toward a certificate if they are pursuing both simultaneously.
For more information or to explore funding options, contact the Financial Aid Office at finaid@uidaho.edu or call 208-885-6312.
Recognized STEM Program
This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
As a U of I sustainability student, you’ll have the chance to make a tangible impact on campus and in the community through projects and initiatives that promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact. Opportunities include:
- Get Rooted: Restore endangered Palouse Prairie native plants
- Spruce the Palouse: Join a community-wide clean-up day
- Get Dirty: Volunteer on the Soil Stewards Farm to plant, weed and harvest crops
- Game Day Recycling: Collect recyclables during tailgates at home football games
- Bee a Volunteer: Support pollinators by planting native, bee-friendly plants on campus
- Protecting Paradise: Replace “No-Dumping” labels on campus storm drains
Clubs and organizations
- Student Sustainability Cooperative
- Society for Conservation Biology
- Soil Stewards
- Paradise Audubon Society
- Hydroponics Club
Application information
Admission criteria for undergraduate certificates are the same as those for U of I undergraduate degree programs. View our admission requirements on our Admissions website to learn more.
Undergraduate certificate application process
Students interested in adding a certificate to their bachelor’s or associate degree program should speak with their academic advisor.
Students interested in earning an undergraduate certificate as a standalone program should contact the Admissions Office at 208-885-6326 for information on how to apply.