MEM: Sustainable & Resilient Communities

2 students dig a hole for a sagebrush transplant with w mountain in the background

Part of: Master in Environmental Management, Clark Family School of Environment & Sustainability, School of Graduate Studies

Offered as: Certificate

Degree: Master in Environmental Management

Part of: Master in Environmental Management, Clark Family School of Environment & Sustainability, School of Graduate Studies

Offered as: Certificate

Degree: Master in Environmental Management

The 14-credit Resilient Communities Certificate prepares students to tackle the pressing challenges of climate change, urban development, and environmental stewardship. Through an interdisciplinary approach, this program blends environmental science, policy, economics, and community planning to equip students with the tools to design solutions that promote community sustainability and resilience. Students will gain hands-on experience and a deep understanding of how to create sustainable infrastructure, enhance resource management, and build adaptive strategies for the future.

Two MEM students smile at each other as they weed the Chipeta Garden.

Communities across the world face growing environmental and social pressures from climate change and natural hazards to housing, water, and economic transitions. The Community Resilience Certificate equips students with the interdisciplinary tools needed to help communities adapt, plan, and thrive in the face of change.

Students explore topics such as environmental justice, collaborative governance, climate adaptation, and systems thinking. Through applied coursework and case studies, participants learn how to engage stakeholders, evaluate policy options, and design strategies that strengthen the long-term resilience of communities and landscapes.

The Community Resilience Certificate is designed for professionals and emerging leaders who want to help communities navigate environmental, economic, and social change. It is particularly valuable for individuals working at the intersection of environmental management, public policy, and community planning who want to build stronger, more adaptable communities.

This certificate is ideal for professionals working in:

Local and regional government
Nonprofit and community organizations
Climate adaptation and planning
Environmental policy, education, and advocacy

Graduates gain practical skills for facilitating collaboration, managing complex stakeholder processes, and developing resilient solutions for environmental and social challenges.

Experiential Learning

River Studies & Leadership Certificate

Students dive into the science and stewardship of rivers, gaining hands-on experience in fieldwork, conservation, and water resource management.
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Clark – Biochar Climate Solution

Students create biochar from local wood waste, gaining hands-on experience with practical climate solutions.
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Admissions, Cost & Requirements

Applications will be holistically reviewed by certificate faculty to ensure appropriate placement and student success based on past achievement and potential. Entry into the program will mirror the Master of Environmental Management admissions process, with both fall and spring semester entry possible. A baccalaureate degree in environmental science, natural resource management, or a related field from an accredited college or university, with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or appropriate work experience and background required.

Submit:

• Official undergraduate or graduate transcript
• A resume or CV
• One-page professional intentions statement outlining student goals and experiences

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Program Information

Period	Credits	Tuition per Credit	Fees per Credit Hour*	Flat Fees**	Total Tuition & Fees
Year 1: Fall	7	$847	$73.40	$50	$6,492.80
Year 1 Spring	7	$847	$73.40		$6,442.80
					$12,935.60

*Mandatory graduate student fees per credit hour
Graduate Studies Administrative Operations Fee: $63.00
Library Fee: $6.50
IT Services Fee: $3.90

**Mandatory graduate student flat fees
New Student Matriculation Fee: $50.00

A certificate is a shorter program focusing on a specific field of expertise rather than an entire course of study. It does not result in a degree, but it can be completed alongside your major or as a stand-alone credential. Certificates are a great way to enhance your knowledge, strengthen your resume, and gain practical experience in a particular field.

Program Requirements

Business Development
Communications
Environmental Engineering
Environmental Policy
Information System
Operations Management

Biofuels Production Manager
Chief Sustainability Officer
Conservation Scientist
Environmental Economist
Fish & Game Warden
Range Manager

Explore Alumni Careers

Fellowships, Scholarships & Financial Aid

Fellowships

Western’s MEM program offers graduate fellowships that reduce tuition, strengthen partnerships, and enhance career prospects for selected students. Fellowships are awarded based on the quality and number of applicants each year.

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Financial Aid & Scholarships

Graduate students at Western receive financial support from a variety of sources, including personal savings, loans, scholarships, fellowships and graduate assistantships. Learn more ways to offset these costs through financial aid opportunities.

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"Lindsey Lunsford's work towards a healthier community contributes to the rural south's reclamation of the "Carver Way of Life," impacting the health of many communities."

Lindsey Lunsford

We are so excited about your interest in applying to the Community Resilience Certificate! Please take a moment to review the requirements and deadlines before accessing the application.

Apply Now Contact Us

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