Certificate in Environmental Learning and Leadership
For registration in the next course offering (Aug. 4-16, 2026), click here!
The Institute for Environmental Learning in association with with community partners has developed a series of (non-credit) professional learning opportunities or micro-credentials* which together build towards a Certificate in Environmental Learning and Leadership. The courses are offered in immersive field-based settings and allow participants to go deeper (and farther) with their Environmental Learning and Professional Development. (see here the current list of Field Program locations).
What is a Micro-credential?
According to the BC Ministry of Postsecondary Education, Micro-credentials are short, focused programs that teach skills needed for jobs or community needs. They are recognized by employers and schools and can help you continue your education. They provide opportunities for individuals to obtain new skills quickly and the competencies that learners gain are relevant and recognized on a university transcript. The following is a list of approved courses which together comprise the certificate:
Course Descriptions
ELSE 452 (Eco-Learning and Sustainability Experience) 100 contact hours
This experiential learning opportunity assists educators to examine problems related to increasing youth awareness and understanding of ecology, culture and environment in formal and informal learning settings (e.g. eco-learning). The course also explores bio-cultural diversity through an interdisciplinary lens that relates historical and contemporary issues with emerging perspectives such as eco-justice, climate literacy and others. Environmental themes will vary among yearly offerings.
ELSE 454 (Eco-Learning and Sustainability, Policy and Practice) 100 contact hours
This course, the second experiential learning opportunity (prerequisite ELSE 452) assists educators to examine contemporary policy and practice as they relate to education about ecology, culture and environment in formal and informal learning settings across Canada and internationally (e.g. eco-learning). Normally the course is taken in a different context / location than the first course. Course content typically explores environmental controversies or local issues (eco-justice, food security, etc).
ELSE 453 (Eco-Learning and Sustainability, Project or Portfolio) 50 contact hours
This capstone opportunity (prerequisite ELSE 452 and pre/co-requisite ELSE 454) facilitates the development of a project or portfolio that demonstrates mastery of eco-learning principles and personal growth. The course may be taken in the same context as previous courses and can be taken in tandem with ELSE 454. Typically, projects feature an application of knowledge gained in the program and demonstrates a thorough understanding of eco-learning curriculum, policy, or practice.
NOTE* ELSE 452 and ELSE 454 each constitute a micro-credential individually, whereas ELSE 452,453 and 454 taken together constitute completion of the Certificate in Environmental Learning and Leadership.