iNTRODUCING College of marin’s
CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT IN NATURAL HISTORY
As we find ourselves in the midst of a climate crisis, education in natural science is more vital than ever. It is imperative that we inspire a shift in perspective from an anthropocentric worldview which assumes we’re in charge of managing the planet to benefit only our profit-driven agenda, to an ecological worldview which recognizes that we are but a part of nature, equal to others and fully reliant on the Earth’s ability to maintain a balance which makes life possible.
ABOUT THE naturalist PROGRAM
DEveloping Passionate Naturalists
The Natural History Program is a field experience program based on scientific principles and concepts for students who want to develop a comprehensive understanding of the natural world. A deep understanding of the wonders of nature cannot fully be realized inside a classroom- within the Naturalist Program, nature becomes the classroom. It is especially designed for those interested in becoming environmental educators, naturalists, school teachers, natural history museum educators, and those pursuing job advancement opportunities.
REQUIREMENTS
Students must complete six courses (four core science courses and two additional biology or geology courses). One great aspect of this program is students’ ability to earn a certificate through diverse, exciting courses- reductionist sciences can tend to dissuade some students from pursuing their passion altogether. Not everyone intends to follow the typical path of transferring to a four-year university to acquire multiple degrees, and this program offers not only acquisition of essential knowledge and field experience, but a recognized achievement as well. Think of this as an express route packed with knowledge directly relating to your passion for nature! Click “Course List” above for a comprehensive list of required courses.
The first step
Do you dream of working to protect or restore the natural world? Whether you see yourself working outdoors, directly interacting with nature, or educating others so they may see the importance of nurturing the Earth, education in natural sciences through COM’s Natural History Program is an incredible way to begin your journey! If you’re interested in finding out more about College of Marin’s Naturalist Program please contact the program coordinator, Joe Mueller. jmueller@marin.edu
College of Marin’s rigorous natural history program is very different from the short California Naturalist program. COM’s delves much deeper into natural systems and brings forth a thorough understanding of what it means to live in harmony with nature and how we can be responsible global citizens.
how College of marin’s program compares to “cal-nat”
“The Cal-Nat program is highly regarded due to the University of California Davis brand and graduates can earn units after completion through UC Extension. I realize many, if not most folks wouldn't enroll in a program that required more time than 40 hours but my point is that people assume our program at COM is comparable when it isn't. While the Cal-Nat program is a great introduction with the potential to spark interest in natural science, College of Marin’s Natural History Program offers an in-depth exploration of natural science via lectures and extensive field experience.”
- Joe Mueller
Graduates of the natural history program
what they’re doing now
(Coming Soon!)