Nature-based Education Certificate

Hamline is the first university to offer a certificate in nature-based learning! Teachers who use nature as a context for teaching report a higher level of job satisfaction, fewer behavior issues in the classroom, and improved student outcomes.

Designed for classroom educators ready to boost student engagement and achievement through environmental learning, this 10 credit certificate offers practicing educators research-backed, immersive, nature-based practices and pedagogical approaches to support all learners and create equitable learning environments and experiences. No matter what the setting of your classroom: urban, rural, or somewhere in between, Nature-based education improves academic outcomes, fosters social-emotional development, and deeper engagement across all subject areas. This certificate supports paraprofessionals, teachers, curriculum coaches, content-area specialists, special education professionals, administrators and others in aligning existing curricula, coursework, and classroom activities with nature-based approaches.

You’ll get direct support for applying nature-based approaches to support your work, so you have freedom to choose the elective courses that align best with your professional context. No matter which courses you choose, and no matter where your school is located, you’ll effectively use nature as a context for addressing academic standards, supporting students’ growth and development, improving engagement and increasing well-being and connection to nature. The certificate is designed for working professionals. Once completed, the certificate may be used to fulfill elective requirements for the Master of Arts in Natural Sciences and Environmental Education program, or electives in other graduate programs with approval of the Chair of the School of Education and Leadership or Program Director. 

Students develop their individual course plan with the program director to ensure the content fits each individual’s needs for relicensure, district-wide professional learning, academic standards alignment, and other factors. Note this certificate is NOT a teaching license.