Individuals who wish to complete a course of study to receive a Certificate in International Environmental Policy may do so within a period of two semesters. These students are considered non-degree, as they are not enrolled in a master’s degree program, and thus do not need to meet the Admissions requirements. This certificate is designed primarily for working professionals and individuals who already hold an advanced degree; however, in special circumstances, recent undergraduate students could also be considered.
International Environmental Policy (IEP) is a dynamic and complex field stretching across many disciplines, scales, organizations, and issues. Yet it is defined by attention beyond domestic borders (International), concern with the health of the natural world (Environmental), and recognition that human decisions are key (Policy). It is a field which demands a broad range of knowledge and skills from its practitioners, no matter what the focus of their work.
Careers in international environmental policy include:
- Biodiversity Protection
- Business and Environment
- Climate Change
- Ecotourism
- Environment
- Environmental Communications
- Environmental Security
- Marine Conservation
- Sustainable Development
- Trade
- Waste Management Policy
The certificate program integrates international environmental law, politics, economics, and science. Beyond these foundation topics, students learn specifically useful skills, such as data analysis, policy memo writing, or program evaluation. Previous background in environmental studies (science or policy), international relations, and/or economics is helpful, in combination with some international experience.
Students wishing to deepen their specialization in the field of International Environmental Policy may want to pursue the Master of Arts in International Environmental Policy (MAIEP). This degree builds on a sound specialization in the field - and adds additional requirements.
The certificate in international environmental policy is comprised of 32 credits with a grade of B or better in each course from the following list:
Required:
IP 507 International Environmental Law and Organizations
IP 512 Environmental Science and Policy
IP 542 Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
And at least 8 credits from any of the following courses, including at least one seminar:
IP 529 Introduction to Development, 4 credits
IP 549 Conservation Biology, 4 credits
IP 551 Development Economics, 4 credits
IP 554 Natural Resource Project Management, 4 credits
IP 558 Population and Human Security, 4 credits
IP 580 Energy and Sustainable Development, 4 credits
IP 610 Sem: Practicum in Grassroots Development, 4 credits
IP 614 Sem: Economics of Sustainable Development, 4 credits
IP 615 Sem: Trade and Environment, 4 credits
IP 616 Sem: Environmental Conflict Management, 4 credits
IP 621 Sem: Geographic Information Systems, 4 credits
IP 623 Sem: Global Business and the Environment, 4 credits
IP 625 Sem: International Environmental Assessment, 4 credits
IP 635 Sem: Marine Protected Area, 4 credits
IP 645 Sem: Protected Area Policy, 4 credits
IP 652 Sem: International Marine Law and Policy, 4 credits
IP 680 Sem: Sustainability Field Study, 4 credits
WKS 538 Biodiversity, 1 credit
WKS 541 Global Energy Prospects, 1 credit
WKS 544 Ecotourism, 1 credit
WKS 552 Introduction to GIS, 1 credit
WKS 554 Financing Int'l Environmental Protection, 1 credit
WKS 566 Microfinance, 1 credit
Language and other courses can qualify with the approval of an academic advisor.
HS 488 International Bio-Diversity Law and Organizations
For additional information about the stand-alone, non-degree certificate in International Environmental Policy, please contact:
GSIPS Dean's Office
dean.gsips@miis.edu
831-647-4155
