SUNY ESF Introduces Graduate Certificate in Indigenous Peoples and the Environment

07/16/2026

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — July 16, 2026 — The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) has launched a new Advanced Certificate in Indigenous Peoples and the Environment, a graduate program designed to prepare environmental professionals to work effectively and respectfully with Indigenous Nations in research, conservation, restoration, and natural resource management. Developed and guided by ESF's nationally recognized Center for Native Peoples and the Environment (CNPE), the certificate addresses a growing need for environmental leaders who can engage across diverse knowledge systems and worldviews.

The nine-credit program provides students with a foundation in Indigenous knowledge systems, Indigenous-led conservation, collaborative research methods, and the role of Indigenous sovereignty in environmental decision-making. Through courses in Indigenous environmental issues, Indigenous research methods, and community-based participatory research, students gain practical skills that are increasingly valued by employers in government agencies, nonprofits, academia, and natural resource organizations. 

“The most effective environmental solutions are built through collaboration,” said ESF President Joanie Mahoney. “This certificate reflects ESF’s commitment to preparing environmental leaders for today’s complex challenges by giving students the knowledge and perspective needed to build meaningful partnerships with Indigenous Nations and develop more effective, inclusive approaches to environmental stewardship.”

Students will learn from faculty affiliated with the Center for Native Peoples and the Environment, including Drs. Kyle Artelle, Madeline Nyblade, and Jean Kayira, who serve as academic advisors for the program. 

Graduates of the certificate will be better prepared to collaborate with Indigenous Nations, conduct community-engaged research, and contribute to environmental initiatives that respect Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and stewardship practices. 

The Advanced Certificate in Indigenous Peoples and the Environment is open to current ESF graduate students as well as individuals who have already earned a bachelor's degree and are seeking specialized graduate-level training. 

For program-specific information, including curriculum and admissions details, visit the Indigenous Peoples and the Environment program page. To learn more about other graduate certificate programs, or ESF's master's and doctoral degree opportunities, contact the SUNY ESF Graduate School at [email protected], or visit www.esf.edu/graduate. 

About SUNY ESF 

The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable and resilient future through design, policy, and management of the environment and natural resources. Members of the College community share a passion for protecting the health of the planet and a deep commitment to the rigorous application of science to improve the way humans interact with the world. The College offers academic programs ranging from the associate of applied science to the Doctor of Philosophy. ESF students live, study, and conduct research on the main campus in Syracuse, N.Y., and on 25,000 acres of field stations in a variety of ecosystems across New York state.