Online certification may help adults qualify for green jobs

Online certification may help adults qualify for green jobs

The number of green jobs has grown by more than 9 percent over the past 10 years, which is twice the growth rate for traditional jobs, according to research from Wake Forest University. Eco-conscious careers are available in areas such as conservation science and environmental engineering.

Individuals who are interested in working in one of these fields may want to consider enrolling in an online university. Web-based degree programs give learners the freedom to continue their education without disruption to their current jobs or personal lives.

For example, California State University's San Bernardino College of Extended Learning has partnered with San Diego's State University's College of Extended Studies to offer an online course on global sustainability and future trends, reports The Desert Sun.

Coursework will focus on trends in sustainability and the global economy, environmental laws affecting air and water quality, hazardous waste and materials and site closures and cleanup.

The six-week long class is part of a five-section online certification in sustainable practices, which could be a very useful qualification for adults who are pursuing a green career.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that environmental engineers, who develop methods and products to prevent or repair environmental harm, could earn more than $92,750 per year. Last year, conservation scientists, who help manage and protect the Earth's resources, held about 15,800 jobs.

By Mark Danson