College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
Sustainability
College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
Sustainability
Turn Sustainability Knowledge into Real-World Impact
The Graduate Certificate in Sustainability at New Mexico State University prepares professionals to address today’s most pressing environmental, economic, and social challenges through an interdisciplinary lens. This flexible program equips students with a strong foundation in sustainable systems, resource management, and environmental decision-making — skills that are increasingly in demand across industries and sectors.
Designed to complement graduate study or enhance professional expertise, the certificate brings together perspectives from environmental science, agriculture, policy, and community planning. Students gain practical tools to evaluate complex sustainability issues and contribute meaningful solutions that promote resilience, equity, and long-term stewardship.
Admission Deadlines
There are no fixed deadlines*
- Total credits: 15
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates of the Sustainability Graduate Certificate are prepared for roles where sustainability, environmental responsibility, and strategic planning intersect, including:
- Sustainability coordinator or manager
- Environmental program specialist
- Conservation or natural resources planner
- Sustainability analyst or consultant
- Environmental compliance or policy associate
- Agricultural or food systems sustainability specialist
- Corporate social responsibility (CSR) professional
- Community development or resilience coordinator
- Nonprofit or NGO program manager
- Sustainability roles in government, education or industry
Why choose a Graduate Certificate in Sustainability at NMSU?
NMSU’s Graduate Certificate in Sustainability offers a practical, interdisciplinary approach to sustainability education that reflects the real challenges facing communities, industries, and ecosystems — particularly in arid and resource-sensitive regions. The program draws on NMSU’s strengths in environmental science, agriculture, and applied research, giving students insight into sustainability from both local and global perspectives.
Students benefit from flexible coursework that can stand alone or be integrated into a graduate degree, making it an ideal option for working professionals and graduate students alike. With an emphasis on applied learning and systems thinking, this certificate empowers you to advance your career while contributing to solutions that support environmental health, economic viability, and social well-being.
15 credits
With just 15 credits, you become highly qualified to support sustainability from both local and global perspectives.
The Sustainability Graduate Certificate is open to students admitted to the Graduate School who have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Completion of the certificate requires completion of each of the individual courses with a B or better. A minimum of 12 credits are required for the certificate. At least six credits are from 500/5000-level and above.
Take classes like:
- RGSC 575 - Climate Studies, Water and Society
- ENVS 451 - Special Topics (Special Topics in Sustainability)
- ENVS 605 - Arid Land Water Resources
- GEOG 535 - Planning a Sustainable World
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.