New Mountain Research Skills Certificate Program Launches this Quarter at Western

Western's Mountain Environments Research Institute (MERI) now offers a certificate in mountain research skills that aims to train the next generation of scientists interested in working in remote environments. Organizers say the program addresses a critical need identified by groups such as the U.S. Forest Service and is the only one of its kind in the U.S.

Participants will gain essential wilderness and science skills, work on ‘real-world’ field projects domestically and internationally, and gain professional experience with a variety of mountain institute partners.

"We plan to engage students in mountain research as educators and researchers, learners and stewards," said John All, director of MERI at Western. "The work we do occurs both locally in the Northwest as well as internationally in places like Nepal, Peru, and Costa Rica."

Program goals focus on fostering development of research skills specific to remote or mountain environments.

"Students will experience the benefits of interdisciplinary studies while mastering field research methodologies," All said. The certificate aims to provide pathways to graduate study of mountain environments and working with agencies like the U.S. Forest Service and National Park Service. Instructors aim to educate students on the importance of mountain research and its potential to inform public policy.

Certificate Course Availability:
Winter Quarter 2018, students may enroll in courses toward certification online through midnight next Tuesday, January 16th.
 

  • RECR 370 Outdoor Program Development – CORE
  • ESCI 328 Intro Ecosystem Management - CORE
     

Students may start the certificate program coursework at the beginning of any academic quarter. For information about courses offered at future dates, see visit the certificate information page on the MERI site: https://meri.wwu.edu/mountain-environments-research-institute-certificate-program

Link to learn more about the program: https://ee.wwu.edu/mountain
about the director, John All, Ph.D. - https://meri.wwu.edu/john-all