The world may become a little more healthy thanks to new University of Wisconsin Extensions certificates, which will teach students green ways of doing business.
Students will be able to enroll in the two certificate programs starting June 2010. The Sustainable Management Science Certificate focuses on the science aspects of sustainability, while the Sustainable Enterprise Management Certificate emphasizes the business side of sustainability.
According to Dean of UW-Extensions David Schejbal, this is the first time there has been such a certificate in the UW System.
The certificate programs were developed in conjunction with a number of businesses, including Johnson Controls, Ford Motor Company and FedEx, which told administration at UW-Extension they want to see green jobs blossom and potential workers can get an extra edge if they have background in sustainability.
According to a UW-Extensions statement, the certificate program is a way for students to contribute to a growing green economy.
“Increasingly, for Wisconsin firms to remain globally competitive, they will need to manage all cost aspects of their businesses. Promoting energy efficiency and lean processes will continue to play important roles in these endeavors,” Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development spokesperson John Dipko said.
The certificate programs will be offered through four UW colleges — Parkside, River Falls, Stout and Superior.
Schejbal said most of the students who would enroll in one of the programs would probably be non-traditional adults who would be returning to school. He added that students can choose to enroll in both certificate programs if they so choose.
He said the certificate was perfect for students returning to enhance their education. For example, a person with a business degree may return to learn about scientific aspects of sustainability.
While UW-Madison does not offer a certificate in Sustainable Management, students interested in studying it might be able to forge their own academic path, and there may be a graduate certificate available in the future.
According to UW Chair of Conservation Biology and Sustainable Development Nancy Mathews, a certificate for sustainability for Madison may be approved sometime this summer, and the Nelson Institute is looking to launch an Environmental Studies major in the coming years.
