Tribal natural resources stewardship
Certificate, undergraduate
Career preparation for tribal and environmental roles
The tribal natural resources stewardship certificate prepares you to support Indigenous-led environmental stewardship across diverse landscapes. Rooted in the ecological and cultural richness of Idaho, this program blends natural resource science, tribal governance and restoration practices to help you address real-world challenges. You’ll study topics like restoration ecology, tribal sovereignty and environmental policy while learning from and working with tribal nations throughout the region.
With a strong focus on traditional ecological knowledge and place-based learning, this certificate equips you to make a meaningful impact in tribal communities, environmental organizations or future graduate studies.
Overview
Integrating Indigenous knowledge and Western science
Degree fit
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Are passionate about protecting the environment and working with Indigenous communities
- Want to explore how science, culture and policy intersect to support sustainable land and resource management
- Are interested in learning about restoration ecology, tribal sovereignty, and environmental law
- Want hands-on, field-based experience and opportunities to build relationships with tribal nations
- Are planning a career in natural resources or want to deepen your understanding of Indigenous stewardship
Career outcomes
Current job openings
2,212 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Conservation Scientists • Range Managers • Park Naturalists
$77,179 - Foresters
$71,372 - Forest and Conservation Technicians
$54,676 - Postsecondary Forestry and Conservation Science Teachers
$82,848
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
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.
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
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
With Idaho’s scenic backdrop and outstanding outdoor resources, it is among the best settings to learn about natural resource stewardship. Within an hour of Moscow, you will find rivers for fishing, boating and rafting, wilderness for hiking and camping and mountains for skiing.
Clubs and organizations
- The Wildlife Society
- American Fisheries Society
- The Society of American Foresters
- Society for Range Management
- Ecology and Conservation Biology Club
- U of I Student Sustainability Cooperative
- Environmental Science Club
Application information
Admission criteria for undergraduate certificates are the same as those for U of I undergraduate degree programs. View our admission requirements 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.