Courses

The online Earth sustainability certificate is a 12-credit program of study that you may earn as a stand-alone certificate. To acquire this certificate, you must successfully complete the following 3-credit prescribed course, along with 9 credits chosen from the offerings within the additional courses section.

General Education Requirements

If you are pursuing a bachelor's degree from Penn State, these courses may also satisfy certain individual General Education requirements. You should consult with your adviser to determine what, if any, credits earned in this certificate may be applied toward your degree completion requirements.

Prescribed Course (3 credits)

3

credits

Climate predictions for the coming century are utilized to examine potential impacts on regions, sectors of society, and natural ecosystems.

Additional Courses (select 9 credits)

3

credits

This course presents the past, present, and possible future response of Earth's climate to human energy use.
3

credits

Outcomes include the processes responsible for formation, diversity, and evolution of coastal landscapes; socioeconomic and policy responses to changes in coastal regions.
3

credits

Energy is a critical component of modern society, yet we face significant challenges associated with balancing energy demands, energy security, environmental sustainability, and stable economics with sound regulations and policy. Unconventional energy development from shale formations has been a game changer for the fossil fuel industry over the past decade and is projected to continue to grow over the next several decades.
3

credits

Students will investigate water behavior and occurrence, and its relevance to life, human activities, politics, and society.
3

credits

Introduces students to the multiple connections of people and the environment through the dynamics of food and the places where it is produced, processed, and consumed.

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.