The impact of climate change upon oceans and coasts is increasingly at the forefront of public concern, with calls for universities to exercise leadership through appropriate research and teaching. The need for a sound understanding of the science and implications of climate change is relevant to almost every sector, from business and industry to urban planners, educators, natural resource managers, and those involved with tourism and public policy.

The Oceanographic Center at Nova Southeastern University is now accepting applications for study towards a distance learning graduate certificate in Marine and Coastal Climate Change (GCMCCC). Web-based distance learning is the ideal delivery system, offering the convenience and flexibility working professionals need. Applications are now being accepted. Students may elect to begin studies towards the GCMCCC as of Summer 2008 semester (July 7 – September 19, 2008) and any semester thereafter. All of Nova’s programs are fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and students accepted into the program may be eligible for financial aid.

Program Objectives

The goal of the Graduate Certificate is to provide:

• a scientifically-based, credible, holistic introduction to key ecological and socio-environmental impacts of climate change upon the marine and coastal zone, including the natural and built environment.
  
• a web-based forum for sharing topical national and international information, perspectives and case studies.
  
• a stand-alone Certificate for working professionals in a variety of related fields, and credit towards further Masters study at the Oceanographic Center, whether online (MS in Coastal Zone Management, MA in Cross-Disciplinary Studies with emphasis on Environment, proposed MA in Coastal and Ocean Studies) or in-house (MS in Coastal Zone Management, Marine Biology or Marine Environmental Science).

Who is eligible?
Applicants with any undergraduate major will be considered for admission.

Click here for the online application form.

What is required to graduate?
The Certificate is awarded upon successful completion (C grade or higher) of any 4 of the appropriate graduate courses. Students must complete two core distance courses, MCCC 5300 Climate Change: The Scientific Basis and MCCC 5350 Climate Change: The Societal Perspective. They can select the additional two courses from any distance course offered with a CZMT or MCCC prefix. Students accepted into the Graduate Certificate program may also apply to fulfill one or more of the required elective courses from in-house or field-based offerings, pending instructor’s acceptance.

How much does it cost?
Current information on course costs can be found by clicking on this link. Students accepted into the Graduate Certificate may be eligible for financial aid. Click here for information about financial aid.

When is it offered?
The Graduate Certificate in Marine and Coastal Climate Change will officially launch in the Summer 2008 semester. Prospective students can choose to enroll in courses in any semester (summer, fall, winter or spring). Generally, students take one course in a semester. For the Graduate Certificate program, courses do not have to be taken over consecutive semesters; students can enroll according to the schedule most convenient for them, as long as all course work is completed within five years of initial registration.

Would you like more information?
Email "Jane Dougan" <douganj barney nova fred edu> (Coordinator of Distance Learning) or "Twyla Herrington" <imcs barney nova fred edu> (Administrative Assistant).

Telephone 1-800-541-6682 and ask for either Jane (Ext. 23621) or Twyla (Ext. 23610).

Fax us at 954-262-4020.

Write us at

The Institute of Marine and Coastal Studies
8000 North Ocean Drive
Dania Beach, FL 33004 USA

You may also wish to explore the link for prospective students on the distance education home page.