Program Overview

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Introduction to the Restoration of Natural Systems Diploma

The Restoration of Natural Systems (RNS) diploma is a dynamic, interdisciplinary, credit program that provides comprehensive knowledge and skills to those interested in the rapidly emerging field of ecological restoration. This program is designed for individuals who are passionate about the environment and wish to make a difference in how we connect with the natural world.

Program Overview

The RNS diploma program is supported by a unique partnership between the School of Environmental Studies and the Division of Continuing Studies, resulting in expertly designed courses that are current, comprehensive, and delivered with attention to the needs of adult learners. The program can be taken part-time or full-time, with flexible program completion timelines.

Program Details

• Credential: Diploma, UNITAR-CIFAL certification
• Length: 16 months – 6 years
• Estimated fees: $8,846.68 CAD
• Delivery style: Blended

What You Will Learn

By the end of the program, students will be able to:

• Design and evaluate restoration projects in a broad range of subject areas
• Use scientifically rigorous approaches to restoration projects
• Interpret technical reports and scientific publications
• Identify and understand the decisions and policies governing restoration work
• Apply research methodologies to restoration projects
• Use current mapping and sampling technologies
• Solve problems encountered in implementing restoration projects, including dispute resolution, conducting consultative processes, and building consensus
• Understand issues of national and international restoration
• Take human impacts into consideration when analyzing and designing restoration projects
• Incorporate traditional ecological knowledge in restoration planning where appropriate
• Communicate knowledge about restoration projects to the wider public

Career Options

Some of our learners pursue careers in the following roles:

• Environmental conservation and restoration
• Ecological restoration project management
• Environmental planning and policy

Program Partners

The program is partnered with the Faculty of Social Sciences, School of Environmental Studies.

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

The program is aligned with the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, which aims to prevent, halt, and reverse the degradation of ecosystems worldwide.

Instructors

The program is taught by experienced instructors, including:

• Clint Smyth
• Richard Hebda
• Val Schaefer
• Eric Higgs
• John Harper
• Emily Gonzales
• Fiona-Grace Hamersley Chambers
• Paul de Greeff
• Cori Barraclough

What Our Learners Say

Our learners have praised the program for its real-world application and flexibility. The program has received both the Award of Excellence from the Canadian Association for University Continuing Education (2001) and the Ecostar Award for Environmental Education from the Capital Regional District (2005).

Program Planning

The credit program is offered at the third- and fourth-year undergraduate level. Students should have a minimum of two years of post-secondary studies or an equivalent preparation developed through work and life experience.

Completion Requirements

Students must complete 11 credit courses (for a total of 18.0 credit units) in order to obtain their diploma: six core (required) courses and five electives.

Six Required Courses

• Biodiversity and Conservation Biology
• Environmental Restoration Project
• Ethical, Legal, and Policy Aspects of Environmental Restoration
• Field Study in Ecological Restoration I
• Field Study in Ecological Restoration II
• Principles and Concepts of Ecological Restoration

Five Electives

Students can choose from a range of electives, including:

• Advanced Principles & Concepts of Ecological Restoration
• Ecorestoration Strategies: Case Studies
• Ecosystems of British Columbia, Canada, and the World
• Fire Ecology
• Forest Restoration and Sustainable Forestry
• Galiano Island Field Study
• Mining Reclamation
• Non-Timber Forest Management and Sustainable Use by Major Forest Zones in BC
• Restoration of Freshwater Aquatic Systems
• Restoration of Marine Aquatic Systems
• Science Communication for Ecological Restoration
• Selection and Propagation of Native Plants for Ecological Restoration
• Soil Conservation and Restoration
• Special Topics in Environmental Restoration
• Special Topics in Environmental Restoration: Climate Change in Ecological Restoration
• Traditional Systems of Land and Resource Management
• Urban Restoration and Sustainable Agricultural Systems

Estimated Tuition and Fees

• Program application fee: $100.00
• Five required courses: $3,644.45
• Five elective courses: $3,644.45
• One required ER 390 capstone project course: $1,457.78
• Estimated Total: $8,846.68

Application Process

Applicants who speak English as a second language must meet the University of Victoria's English language proficiency requirements before applying to the program. The program may edit or change application deadlines without notice, depending on seat availability.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should have a minimum of two years of post-secondary studies or an equivalent preparation developed through work and life experience. A first year ecology or biology course is recommended.

How to Apply

1. Click the APPLY ONLINE button.
2. Fill out the application form carefully, providing all required information.
3. Pay the $100 application fee.

Application Dates

• Starting in May 2026: Apply by March 1, 2026
• Starting in September 2026: Apply by July 1, 2026

Conclusion

The Restoration of Natural Systems diploma program is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary program that provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career in ecological restoration. With its flexible program completion timelines and blended delivery style, this program is ideal for individuals who are passionate about the environment and wish to make a difference in how we connect with the natural world.