Field Nature Studies Program

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can one course apply to both the Certificate in Field Ecology and a Specialized Study Program?
2. Can one course apply to both the Certificate in Field Ecology and the Certificate in Desert Ecology?
3. How many units may I transfer?
4. Is this Certificate approved for Veterans Education Benefits?
5. Where and when are classes held?
6. I am interested in taking only one or two courses. Do I have to enroll in the entire certificate or specialized study program or are courses available for individual enrollment?
7. Is there a course sequence I need to follow?

1. Can one course apply to both the Certificate in Field Ecology and a Specialized Study Program?

A: Yes. For example, the course Wildflowers of the Desert Foothills applies to both the Certificate in Field Ecology and the Specialized Study Program in Field Botany.

2. Can one course apply to both the Certificate in Field Ecology and the Certificate in Desert Ecology?

A: Yes, but no more than six units may apply to both certificates.

3. How many units may I transfer?

A: Transferred courses are limited to one third of the total unit requirement.

4. Is this Certificate approved for Veterans Education Benefits?

Yes, please call Julie at (951) 827-4105 for more information.

5. Where and when are classes held?

Since these are field study programs, most courses will meet in the physical location of study on weekends. For example, Geology and Natural History of Yosemite will meet in Yosemite and Birds of Anza-Borrego will meet in Anza-Borrego. A few courses will have an evening orientation meeting in Riverside, Redlands or Palm Desert.

6. I am interested in taking only one or two courses. Do I have to enroll in the entire certificate or specialized study program or are courses available for individual enrollment?

Students may take the entire program or chose to select individual courses on topics most beneficial to them.

7. Is there a course sequence I need to follow?

No. You can start the program with any of the courses based on their availability and your schedule.