Graduate Certificate in Applied Conservation Science
The graduate certificate in applied conservation science is offered by the Mason Center for Conservation Studies in cooperation with the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute. A joint program of the College of Science and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the certificate provides students with hands-on education in conservation science. The courses in this program are all residential, full-day, two-week intensive courses held at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia. This certificate is designed for early to mid-career conservation professionals working in government, non-governmental organizations, and research institutions worldwide.
Students acquire essential skills in conservation research and practice while developing a crucial understanding of the principles and philosophies underlying effective conservation and biodiversity programs. They learn how to apply analysis techniques and tools to address those questions and evaluate conservation outcomes.
Upon completion of the certificate, students will have developed practical and analytical skills applicable to a wide range of programs in applied conservation science research, policy, and practice – from single-species protection and landscape-level restoration and management to community conservation initiatives and human-wildlife conflict mitigation.
Degree Requirements (Catalog Year 2012-2013)
In addition to meeting the following requirements for this degree, students must meet the university requirements for all graduate certificates.
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Two core courses (6 credits): CONS 620, 625
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One course (3 credits) in human dimensions: CONS 660, 665
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6 credits of electives: CONS 630, 660, 665, 697
CONS 630 and 697 may be repeated for credit when topics are different.
Total: 15 Credits
Requirements may be different for earlier catalog years. See the University Catalog archives.