Michigan State University
EN-12: Continuing Education

MSU hosts an Extension program due it it's unique position as the Land Grant University in Michigan. MSU Extension is responsible for the large number of sustainability-related continuing education courses through its extensive agriculture, business, community, food and health, lawn and garden, and natural resources focus areas. MSU also provides continuing education through its various research institutes, including Center for Global Connections the Kellogg Biological Station, the Center for Packaging Innovation and Sustainability, the Water Research Institute, and the Center for Fiscal Sustainability Government and Community Vitality. Attached inventory addresses sustainability programs and courses offered, primarily through MSU Extension. Programs with multiple courses offered represent the number of counties and locations that offer variations of that program and its courses. Please see attached for further detail. Certificate sustainability programs offered listed below. Community Food Systems: Farm to Institution This is an umbrella of programs that share to goals of increasing local food being served in Michigan institutions and food related education provided in institutional settings. The three components of this program are as follows. Local food procurement: developing capacities of institutions to purchase, promote and serve local foods. Institutional gardens: promoting on-site gardens as formal and informal educational tools to be effective positive change agents. Good food education: promoting experiential education related to agriculture, food, health and nutrition through direct programs and training those who provide direct education. The local food procurement portion of this program is conducted in partnership, in part, with the Michigan Farm to Institution Network. Natural Resources: Intro to Lakes An online course in which participants learn and explore topics including lake ecology, watersheds, natural shorelines, water law, aquatic plants, and citizen involvement. Participants will: 1) understand the ecological and economic values associated with Michigan’s inland lakes; 2) recognize that inland lake management is complex, multifaceted and requires stakeholder involvement 3) use federal, state and local resources to help improve water quality Executive MBA: Special Topics-Innovative Thinking Designed to explore aspects of entrepreneurship with a particular emphasis on creativity, idea development, and business plan preparation. Develops the skills and competencies that facilitate creation and implementation of a particular business idea in the face of a dynamic and uncertain marketplace. LEED Training: AP + Building Design and Construction Discover the real-world application of Green Building Design and Construction practices on LEED projects. Prepare yourself for the LEED AP+BD&C accreditation exam that (after passing) will allow you to operate as a successful LEED practitioner on and off job sites. LEED Training: Green Associate Exam Preparation Acquire the fundamental concepts of green building. Then prepare yourself to take the Green Associate exam and earn the LEED Green Associate credential from the Green Building Certification Institute. The course is intended for design, construction and real estate professionals, building owners, or anyone who wants to develop their knowledge in this area. LEED Training: LEED for Existing Buildings - Operations and Maintenance Exam Preparation This study group covers the concepts and strategies of the LEED for Existing Buildings Operations & Maintenance Rating System and is intended for design, construction and real estate professionals, building owners, and anyone who wants to develop their knowledge in this area. The course will prepare students to earn the LEED for Existing Buildings Operations & Maintenance Accredited Professional (LEED AP O+M) credential from the Green Building Certification Institute. For a complete inventory, please see attached file [teams/general/additional resources/en12/en_12 Cont Ed Final ]

"The Certified Master Gardener Program was created and implemented in 1978. Since then, it has taught over 31,000 Michigan residents. The program shares science-based, environmentally-sound gardening knowledge with engaged citizens and helps to empower communities in sustainability. This is done through environmentally responsible gardening practices that protect and preserve the native species and existing water resources; improve food security for participating communities through lessons in growing one's own food and providing assistance and mentorship for gardeners; improve the community through engagement and activities that benefit all ages and abilities; and develop youth through gardening through after school programs and the Junior Master Gardener class. Organic Farmer Training Program through the Student Organic Farm is a comprehensive, non-degree seeking program that educates its participants in organic and sustainable farming and produces individuals capable of working at, owning, and running their own farm or farm business. The Program is committed to preparing students to start and operate their own farms, manage existing farm businesses or non-profit farms, or work for other organizations promoting farm and food education and /or food production in a changing market and changing environment. The program covers vegetable, fruit, and flower production, organic certifications, solar greenhouse management and production, wholesale marketing, business planning, and many other areas to create a capable and holistic farmer. Other sustainability-based continuing education programs include the Certified Land Use program, the Great Lakes Turf Schools Certificate, Citizen Planner, and LEED Certification programs. Please see attached inventory for additional programs and further details. "

The Visiting International Professional Program (VIPP) is an exemplery example of a program fully adopting a high performance sustainability culture.  A diverse team representing five different nation's that connects the world's emerging leaders with the scholarly resources of MSU and the region to prepare international professionals in solving wicked problems in their home countries and throughout the world.   https://vipp.isp.msu.edu/news1/?id=3555 Master Gardener Program: https://www.canr.msu.edu/master_gardener_volunteer_program/ Organic Farmer Training Program: http://www.msuorganicfarm.org/organic-farmer-training-program.html