Graduate Programs
TCD Certificate and Concentration Programs
The Tropical Conservation and Development (TCD) Program offers
an interdisciplinary certificate and concentration program focused on integrative
approaches to conservation and development in Latin America and other tropical
regions. The program is open to students enrolled in Master's and Ph.D. programs
in TCD’s affiliate departments at the University of Florida (UF).
Program coursework includes social science theory, principles of tropical
ecology, patterns and trends of tropical resource use and conservation, and
research methods. TCD core courses also allow students to gain essential practical
skills. Emphasis is placed on communication and presentation techniques, grant
writing and fundraising, facilitation and conflict management, participatory
methods for research and project implementation, and project design, analysis
and evaluation. Seminars, workshops, summer research activities, practitioner
experiences, and field-based training programs provide learning opportunities
outside the classroom.
Upon completion of the certificate or specialization, students have an in-depth understanding of the relationships between biological conservation, resource management, and the livelihood needs of rural communities. They also have the appropriate professional skills for a career in research, field practice, or both.