This course introduces you to the basic foundations of sustainability. Sustainability integrates environmental sciences, humanities, and social sciences in order to 1) understand earth’s systems and how humans impact them, 2) value our physical and ethical connection to these systems, and 3) create workable policies for a sustainable future. This allows each generation to provide for its needs while preserving the ability of future generations to do the same.

Sustainability integrates a broad range of topics, including systems thinking, business, ecology, resource management, law, politics, ethics, development, security, human health, and justice.

Format: This non-credit course is offered online using the Canvas LMS, over a 4-week period. It is asynchronous, but not self-paced. This course takes approximately 15 hours to complete. You should plan to spend about 3-4 hours per week. Participants will be assessed throughout the course to demonstrate their proficiency on the subject matter. They must pass all assessments before receiving the course badge. 

Learning Outcomes

• Learners will be able to explain and apply systems thinking frameworks.
• Learners will be able to define core concepts in sustainability. 
• Learners will be able to explain how sustainability relates to their lives and their values, and how their actions impact issues of sustainability. 
• Learners will be able to explain how sustainability helps us meet our current needs while preserving the ability of future generations to meet their needs. 

 Refunds can be issued within 48 hours of registration; no refunds will be given after the course has begun.