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PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Restoration of Natural Systems Certificate

Description

Success takes shape for our learners. 
Read a recent participant's experience with the Restoration of Natural Systems Certificate program

Restoration of Natural Systems program is an accredited program created to disseminate information about the emerging field of environmental restoration and to provide practical background knowledge, training, and skill development for those working in areas related to the restoration of natural systems. The program is offered by the School of Environmental Studies and the Division of Continuing Studies, and is guided by an advisory committee. This interdisciplinary program provides the theory and practice needed to conduct restoration activities. It takes a holistic approach that recognizes the importance of both the social and biophysical dimensions of environmental restoration. The courses have been designed to meet the needs of professionals and to suit the busy schedules of people who work full time.

The RNS Program has received both the Award of Excellence from the Canadian Association for University Continuing Education (2001) and the Ecostar Award for Environmental Education from the Capital Regional District (2005).

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Entrance Requirements

The program is offered at the 3rd and 4th year undergraduate level. Applicants should have a minimum of two years of post-secondary studies or an equivalent preparation developed through work and life experience.

A first year ecology or biology course is recommended.

Applicants should have a demonstrated interest in the environmental field, indicated by courses taken, positions held, volunteer work or hobbies.

Applicants interested in the certificate option should submit an online application to the program office.

Objective

While each course has its specific curriculum and objectives, all of the courses in the program are expected to contribute in varying degrees to the student’s knowledge and skill areas in:

• Designing restoration projects that consider knowledge areas outside your current area of expertise;
• Evaluating and adjusting projects in an ongoing manner;
• Using scientifically rigorous approaches to restoration projects;
• Analyzing critically and synthesizing relevant primary information sources, such as technical reports and scientific publications;
• Understanding of ethics, laws, and policies governing restoration work;
• Resolving disputes, consulting, and consensus building;
• Improving clarity of oral and written presentations;
• Recognizing the role of personal values in decision making;
• Including traditional ecological knowledge in restoration planning;
• Incorporating social and scientific knowledge in restoration planning.

Format

Courses are offered in either an on-campus immersion format or through distance education.

Through careful program planning, it is possible for students to complete their program entirely at a distance other than the two field courses (ER312A and ER312B). Contact us to discuss the distance option.

Completion Requirements

Students must complete 8 courses in order to obtain their certificate - 6 core (required) courses and 2 electives.

The 6 core courses are:

• ER311 – Principles and Concepts of Ecological Restoration (Distance)
• ER312A – Field Study in Ecological Restoration I (5 Day Intensive)
• ER312B – Field Study in Ecological Restoration II (5 Day Intensive)
• ER313 – Biodiversity and Conservation Biology (Distance)
• ER314 – Ethical, Legal and Policy Aspects of Environmental Restoration (Distance)
• ER390 – Selected Project (Independent Capstone Project)

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