The ESIL certificate is motivated by the history of environmental incidents and degradation that have impacted Indigenous lands across the United States. Prevention and management of environmental incidents depends, in part, on scientifically aware, culturally-sensitive individuals who can serve as environmental liaisons between tribal and non-tribal organizations. A network of tribal and non-tribal agencies and CU Denver have come together to provide ESIL students with the most current, professionally relevant training to meet the employment needs in this critical area of environmental stewardship.
The length of time required to complete the ESIL certificate will vary depending on a student's academic background; however, for students completing the certificate only, the ESIL certificate is expected to take one year (full time status) to complete. For students concurrently enrolled in a STEM degree (especially biology, civil engineering, and geography and environmental sciences), the certificate can be completed concurrent with the degree.