About the certificate
Address complex water challenges through sustainable planning, management, and policy with the fully online Water Resources graduate certificate in the Department of Ecosystem Science and Sustainability. Designed for working professionals, this program equips you with the scientific knowledge and practical tools to analyze water systems, evaluate water laws and policies, and develop sustainable management strategies.
Through real-world case studies and hands-on exercises, you’ll explore:
- Hydrologic processes
- Water governance
- Geospatial analysis
Prepare to help government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private-sector businesses make informed decisions about water resources in Colorado and around the world.
Admissions information
Program eligibility
- Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree.
- Both guest students and degree-seeking students are eligible to apply.
- Students must be enrolled at CSU to complete the certificate requirements.
Application information
- The certificate is administered through CSU Online. Please visit their page for additional information.
- Submit an online application through the CSU Graduate School.
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Frequently asked questions
How many credits are required to complete a graduate certificate?
The Water Resources certificate requires 9-15 credits of 500-700 level graduate coursework.
What GPA do I need to earn?
You must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and earn a grade of C or higher in all required certificate courses.
Can I earn more than one graduate certificate?
Yes. You may earn multiple graduate certificates, but you cannot apply the same course toward more than one certificate. Students can also earn graduate certificates in Carbon Management, Environmental Data Science, and Climate Adaptation and Risk Management.
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Can I apply certificate credits toward a master’s degree?
Credits earned toward the graduate certificate may also apply to the Professional Science Master’s in Ecosystem Science and Sustainability. Contact the department for details.
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Will my graduate certificate appear on my transcript?
Yes. Your completed graduate certificate will appear on your official CSU transcript, but not on your diploma. If you are also pursuing a graduate degree, your certificate will be recorded when your degree is conferred.
