Social Innovation and Sustainability Leadership Graduate Certificate

Click here for the Program Requirements

Mission

The mission of the Social Innovation & Sustainability Leadership (SISL) is to: Together, Create Well-Being for All.

The Program supports and facilitates the ongoing development of the skills, knowledge, mindset, and relationships needed to be effective and collaborative leaders in our organizations and in our communities. The Program views leadership as a participatory approach where all of us are seen as changemakers, working with others to create a just, inclusive, and sustainable world through bridging the three divides described below.*

1. The divide between self and our highest potential.
   How do we become the most effective leader possible and co-create social, economical, and ecological well-being in our organizations and communities?
2. The divide between self and others
   How do we strengthen relationship with other individuals and groups so that we can have a more equitable and inclusive world?
3. The divide between self and nature
   How do we create organizational, social, and economic systems that are in harmony with natural systems?

Program Overview

• Interdisciplinary, real-world approach framed by three aspects of leadership, social innovation, sustainability, ecological well-being, social justice and economic well-being.
• A 12-credit, cohort-based program that brings together students from a variety of backgrounds and experiences to create a rich and diverse community of learners.
• Classes scheduled to accommodate working professionals and designed to meet the needs of adult learners.
• Unique structure including an initial 7-day living/learning immersion experience, group projects, bimonthly Saturday classes during the academic year, and an individual, integrative sustainability project for your organization or community.
• Courses led by highly qualified Edgewood College faculty and key community partners.

Admissions Requirements

Admission to the Graduate Certificate in Social Innovation & Sustainability Leadership program is determined by an assessment of the candidate’s academic qualifications, work experience, and interest in the field.

1. Completed graduate application: https://www.edgewood.edu/apply. The application fee is waived for Edgewood College alumni and veterans.
2. Submit official transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate academic credits received from United States, regionally accredited or equivalent post-secondary institutions.
3. Each applicant must participate in an interview conducted by the Director of the Social Innovation & Sustainability Leadership Program. This interview may be done in person, via telephone, or internet.
4. Submit a 2-3 page essay addressing the following questions:
   1. Why are you interested in the Social Innovation & Sustainability Leadership Program?
   2. How do you see the Program supporting your professional and/or personal goals?
   3. Are there specific items you are hoping to learn or gain through the Program?
   4. What background and interests do you bring to the Social Innovation & Sustainability Leadership Program?

5. Students can write and submit their essay online or as an attachment in an email. Completed essays can be emailed to gps@edgewood.edu. Students should include their full name, email address, and telephone number.

6. Submit at least one letter of recommendation from a college or university professor, supervisor, and/or professional colleague who can speak to the applicant’s potential for success in the Social Innovation & Sustainability Leadership program.