Nature and Environmental Writing Certificate

The Certificate in Nature and Environmental Writing is designed for students who wish to further develop their communication skills, going beyond the general education requirements; to deepen and broaden knowledge and presentation literacy as applied to their chosen field; or to enhance their writing and editing abilities as a complement to their major; or to explore the discipline with a focus on the study of literature or creative writing for personal fulfillment or professional development. The Certificate in Nature and Environmental Writing, with a focus on creative writing supports UMFK majors: Biology, Business, Conservation Law Enforcement, and Environmental Studies, as well as the Bachelor of Arts and Sciences (BAS). With the regularly scheduled courses and special topics options, students have the opportunity to self-design a program of study within the BAS program that will match their needs and interests.

Students must maintain a minimum “C” average in English courses for the minor.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will demonstrate critical reading and critical thinking, as well as knowledge of author purpose and audience awareness, through the study of various types of written and verbal communications.
• Students will demonstrate familiarity with a variety exemplary works and authors, using terminology and focusing on issues appropriate to the individual field of study.
• Students will demonstrate skills in interpreting and critiquing a variety of works, considered in context, contributing to academic and imaginative discourse in professional ways.
• Students will create documents that are appropriately addressed to the intended audience, using appropriate rhetorical strategies, grammar, and mechanics.
• Students will demonstrate the use of current research and the ability to appropriately document sources, as needed, producing and delivering well-crafted and original works.
• Students will do market/venue research toward sending out their manuscripts for consideration for possible publication or toward presenting their own work to an audience. Students may present or assist with workshops, on panel discussion, or in reviewing works for presentation in conferences.