The Ecological Restoration program offers specialized training in high-level ecosystem functioning and is designed for practitioners working in restoration and related environmental fields that see problems with current practices and want to investigate alternative and innovative solutions. This program develops critical thinking skills and asks challenging questions that require students to deal with the uncertainty that is present with problems in ecological restoration.

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to conduct detailed site assessments and restoration projects that pay special attention to the unique conditions and challenges presented by built and otherwise highly altered environments.

Courses in the certificate are offered online, appealing to professionals from across North America as a means to meet their annual professional development requirements or to update their skills and understanding. 

The certificate builds on the success of the Restoration of Natural Systems program to offer more advanced training for working professionals.

This program is certified by CIFAL Victoria. CIFAL provides certification for training courses that build the capabilities of individuals and communities towards the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Participants who successfully complete this course are eligible to receive a Certificate of Completion co-signed by UNITAR (United Nations Institute for Training and Research) and CIFAL Victoria.

Program features

• flexible program completion timeline
• online courses
• courses taught by restoration practitioners
• current course content with real-world applications
• a recognized university credential for professionals

Program outcomes

By the end of the program, students will be able to:

• incorporate native species into design
• use an ecosystems approach in planning and designing restoration activities
• develop restoration prescriptions patterned on natural processes
• understand urban ecosystems and the urban/rural interface
• practice and plan for invasive species control and management
• incorporate plant propagation techniques into restoration project design