About the Course
Marine Conservation & Ocean Stewardship
Credits: 3 US (transcript Issued via Hartwick College) | 20–21 ECTS | 41 CATS
About the Course
Dive into one of the most urgent challenges of our time: protecting our oceans. This short course blends scientific insight with practical skills, giving you the tools to understand marine ecosystems and contribute meaningfully to conservation. You’ll study coral reefs, marine biodiversity, and conservation tools such as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), while also engaging with the social, political, and ecological debates shaping the future of our oceans.
Whether you dream of a career in marine biology, environmental policy, or simply want to make your service trip academically recognised, this course equips you to move from passion to impact.
What You’ll Learn
Grasp core marine conservation concepts and terminology.
Develop practical skills in data collection, research, and conservation strategy.
Understand the design and role of MPAs and other global conservation tools.
Analyse conflicts over marine resources and evaluate preservation efforts.
Build advocacy and communication skills to champion marine protection.
Program Highlight
Picture yourself diving on the Great Barrier Reef, recording biodiversity data that feeds directly into conservation initiatives. With CGCS, that kind of hands-on contribution becomes part of your academic and personal journey.
Why It Matters
For learners: Earn formal academic credit and a portfolio of work that supports university applications and future careers.
For schools & groups: Strengthen service-learning trips with measurable outcomes and recognised qualifications.
For communities: Ensure that volunteer energy contributes to long-term, sustainable ocean protection. ⚠️ Enrollment Process
Enrollment is not automatic. Each application is reviewed by our academic team.
Once your enrollment is confirmed, you’ll receive an orientation email within 48 hours.
Orientation gives you access to your first module, assignments, and resources.
You’ll have 12 months to complete the course asynchronously at your own pace.
Your Instructor
Jared Borkum
Jared leads the academic design of CGCS’s global programs, bringing together over a decade of experience in higher education with a passion for sustainability and conservation. He specializes in developing online and blended learning that equips students with practical, impactful skills in areas such as marine conservation, global citizenship, and environmental stewardship. A keen diver and advocate for eco-education, Jared integrates field-based perspectives into digital classrooms, ensuring learners gain not only academic credit but also the competencies needed to contribute meaningfully to global challenges.
