As a marketing major at Temple, I’ve struggled with how to bring “green” into my four short years at the Fox School.

Although I know how to take the derivative of an equation, balance the debits and credits in my accounting homework, and create a fierce advertisement, something still felt like something was missing. Now I have found a way I can couple my degree with my passion for the environment with a certificate in sustainability.

Certificate in Sustainability 101  

Certificates in sustainability are an alternate to a minor. These programs teach student how to positively impact the world around them through evaluating environmental problems, learning about policies and participating in research. Long term, not only does this explore current sustainability problems but assists students in long-term tools to aid future generations with sustainable lifestyles.

Green Job Opportunities

Sustainability awareness not only benefits our planet, but also opens up career opportunities in this tough job market. Sustainability positions are in high demand, including sustainability directors, managers and coordinators.

How great would it be to wake up every morning passionate about what you’re going to be doing that day? And that fact that specialist in this field make $62,000 on average doesn’t hurt either. If you live in a city, town, and suburbs or across the world, sustainability is hot and in need; this is your chance to capitalize.

Temple University’s Sustainability Certificate

Temple’s sustainability program blended well with my marketing major. Specifically, the program offers classes ranging from Marketing for the Sustainable Enterprise; Media and the Environment to Sustainable Food System Planning; and more!

Along with the abundance of classes, Temple offers a ton of environmentally-based clubs including Students for Environment Action, Engineers without Borders, Outdoor Club and Net Impact. Without a doubt, others local schools have similar programs.

Who knew such a wonderful opportunity was right under my nose! With only about 4-6 necessary classes for the program, how could I possibly say no to an educational experience like this?

Green Degree Programs in Philadelphia Schools

Not a Temple student? Almost every school in Philly offers minors in this field, including Villanova, St. Joe’s, Drexel, Philadelphia University. Fast Company named University of Pennsylvania’s duel-degree Green MBA program as one of the hottest in the US, combining management and financial techniques with sustainability.

Readers, have you taken any green degree programs? Tell us in the comments.

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Julia Knable was an Editorial Intern in 2014. She studied Marketing and Management Information Systems at the Fox School at Temple University. After a summer internship at Terracycle inspired her to learn about what she could do to help and protect our ever-changing planet, she ended up with a stint at Green Philly. Along with her passion for sustainability, Julia enjoys exploring Philadelphia and trying all the vegetarian hotspots she can get her hands on. View all posts by Julia Knable