National University and University of California, San Diego Extension are introducing a partnership that offers students pathways to pursue studies in the growing field of sustainability management, the schools announced.
The credit transfer partnership allows those who have completed UC San Diego Extension’s Sustainable Business Practices certificate program to obtain credit for two classes that can be applied toward National University’s Master of Science in Sustainability Management, which is the region’s only sustainability-focused master’s degree program. Both the certificate and master’s program are available online, allowing students throughout the country to benefit from the partnership, the schools said.
Through the partnership, students enrolled in National University’s master’s program can elect to obtain Extension’s certificate in lieu of taking two of the degree courses at National University.
Mary Walshok, dean at UC San Diego Extension, said the credit transfer agreement is an example of how collaboration between educational providers can benefit not just students but the larger regional economy.
According to the schools, the partnership leverages the credentials of two academic leaders in the field of sustainability. According to Wanted Analytics, a firm that tracks hiring data, sustainability jobs in the United States have more than doubled in the past four years. In addition, a Green Jobs Report by the U.S. Conference of Mayors estimated that more than 4.2 million green jobs could be generated by 2038.
“Balancing economic growth with sustainable practices is one of our world’s most pressing issues and National University is pleased to be partnering with UC San Diego Extension to offer students new avenues to advance their studies in a field that is so important to our global future,” said Michael R. Cunningham, president of National University and chancellor of the National University System. “This partnership brings together the very best in quality and flexibility so that we can collectively meet a critical need in our society while supporting our regional economies and environmental resources.”
National University, which launched its M.S. in Sustainability Management in 2012, offers a focus on management skills that emphasize the environment, economics and equity to meet a growing management need in this specialty. It is tailored for those interested in working in a variety of sustainability professions such as sustainability management, environmental consulting, energy efficiency analysis and resource management. Offered through National University’s one-course-per-month format, the Master of Science in Sustainability Management is a quality program with a high degree of flexibility, National University said.
UC San Diego Extension’s Sustainable Business Practice certificate is designed to provide a foundational understanding of the business case for sustainability as well as build essential skills for measuring the effectiveness of sustainability, according to the school.
