The Graduate Certificate in Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment and Adaptation Action will provide professionals with an understanding of the relationships among climate science, vulnerability assessments, adaptation development, and management applications. Graduates will support translation of this understanding by government agencies, private companies, and community planners into specific adaptation plans, leading to climate action.

Admission Requirements

1. a four-year undergraduate degree, or equivalent, from a recognized college or university in an academic discipline relevant to the proposed field of study, OR a three-year first cycle undergraduate degree, in an academic discipline relevant to the proposed field of study, from an institution meeting the criteria set forth in the Bologna Declaration, will be acceptable as the equivalent of an undergraduate degree.

2. a minimum cumulative weighted average of at least a 70% (USask grade system equivalent) in the last two years of study (e.g., 60 credit units)

3. Language Proficiency Requirements: Proof of English proficiency may be required for international
applicants and for applicants whose first language is not English. A minimum overall TOEFL score of 86,
a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5, or another approved test as outlined by the College of Graduate
and Postdoctoral Studies. [Note: These are minimum language proficiency requirements; however,
stronger scores are generally expected for successful entry into the certificate program.]

4. Statement of Intent: Applicants must provide a written Statement of Intent (1000 work maximum)
describing why they want to undertake the program and how their expertise, work and/or volunteer
experience make them an ideal candidate for the program and their chosen field of study. This statement is a key component in adjudicating each applicant’s suitability for the program.

5. Letters of reference: Applicants will need to provide two letters of reference—either academic or
professional letters.

Probationary Admission: Applicants whose qualifications do not meet the minimum requirements or whose academic qualifications are difficult to assess may be admitted on a probationary status to a program. Applicants in this category may be required to take certain preparatory courses to improve their qualifications. In this case they will be required to pay additional fees. The student’s status will be reviewed after a specified amount of academic work is completed. If progress is satisfactory, the Program Director or Graduate Chair may recommend to CGPS that the student be considered fully qualified. Students who do not achieve the probationary conditions may withdraw voluntarily or failing this, will be required to discontinue. In certain exceptional situations, the academic unit may extend the probationary period with a new set of conditions, agreed to by the student and by the College of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. For more information on language proficiency requirements, see the College of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies Academic Policies.

Certificate Requirements (9 credit units)

A minimum of 9 credit units including:

  • ENVS 861.3 
  • ENVS 862.3 
  • ENVS 863.3