River Studies & Leadership Certificate
Purpose
![](/sites/huxleyprod9x1001.wwu.edu/files/2021-01/fishing-on-nooksack.jpg)
Western is partnering with the River Management Society to offer the River Studies and Leadership Certificate (RSLC), awarded upon completion of river-focused coursework and a river-related professional project. The RMS is a national organization whose mission is to support professionals who study, protect and manage North America's rivers.
To learn more about what river professionals do, please view this video from #TheRiverIsMyOffice
The River Studies and Leadership Certificate offers a foundation of knowledge, skills and experience in river-based science, policy, conservation, education, and recreation for undergraduate students who aspire to be river professionals.
As an RSLC student, you'll collaborate with your faculty advisory to design and complete a personalized academic program that provides a strong basis for addressing real world challenges facing our nation's rivers. RSLC requirements include core courses, an emphasis area, and hands-on river-related experience via an internship, professional employment or independent study.
Requirements
Note: Students responsible for completing required prerequisites
Core Courses
One approved course in each of the following: Geographic Information Systems, River Science, River Policy and River Safety Training.
Emphasis Area
Two approved courses in one of these areas:
- River Science
- River-based Policy and Management
- River-based Recreation, Education and Tourism
Professional Experience
Credit-earning internship, paid internship, paid professional experience, independent study or course-related professional experience equivalent to two (2) credit hours.
Oral/Written Presentation
Aspect of student's work presented at a River Management Society (RMS) Symposium or sponsored conference, or an article written for the RMS Journal about RSLC-related experiences.
Benefits
Each RSLC student receives a one-year membership to RMS, which includes a subscription to the RMS Journal and access to national and regional chapter events such as chapter floats, workshops, and the RMS Listserv. Students also have a number of exciting opportunities for professional networking and collaboration.
River Studies and Leadership Interest Form
Supporting Materials
RMS Certificate Guiding Document
Contact
![](/sites/huxleyprod9x1001.wwu.edu/files/2021-01/rafting-the-nooksack-river.jpg)
John McLaughlin
Professor
Environmental Sciences Department
Western Washington University
Environmental Studies 434
John.McLaughlin@wwu.edu
360-650-7617