Frequently Asked Questions About EE Certification

Why certification?

Certified environmental educators meet stringent requirements for proficiency in both the interdisciplinary content and pedagogy necessary to develop and deliver high quality, effective EE programs. On an individual level, certification: 

• enhances the professional background of environmental educators and demonstrates they have proficiency in both content areas such as science, geography, and social studies, and in pedagogical areas such as teaching methods and styles, learning styles, and assessment
• expands professional development opportunities
• allows certified professionals to be sought after and hired by potential employers
• provides recognition within professional and occupational settings

Having a community of certified professionals also:

• elevates respect for the profession
• professionalizes and enhances the credibility of the field of EE
• provides guidelines and procedures for professional development 
• encourages ongoing professional development opportunities

Is certification required to work in the field?

Certification is not required at the national level or by any state or provincial government. Some employers may express preferences for hiring certified environmental educators, as certification validates that individuals have met professional competencies and have experience within the field.

Will certification help me get a job or higher pay?

No one can promise that, but certification readily distinguishes highly qualified professionals and enhances the resumes of those who have attained this recognition.

Who is eligible for certification?

Different states and provinces have different requirements for certification. Most EE certification programs accept applications from formal and nonformal educators, as well as other interested individuals. 

Who certifies environmental educators?

NAAEE Affiliates operate most state/provincial level EE certification programs. In some cases, programs are run by another agency or nonprofit organization.

How will my application be judged?

All accredited programs required to use NAAEE’s Guidelines for the Preparation and Professional Development of Environmental Educators in developing the criteria by which applicants are assessed. NAAEE has developed a common set of Core Competencies based on the work of several states, to tie their programs together.

How do I become certified?

To become certified, you must apply to the program in the state where you practice EE. If your state does not yet have a program, you may apply to another state that accepts non-resident applicants. Some programs can be completed entirely online. 

Is membership in an EE organization required for certification?

This will depend on state/provincial requirements. However, membership in NAAEE and a state, provincial, territorial, or regional EE Affiliate is encouraged to assist you in demonstrating competencies and help you network to find the resources you need to complete your certification application. 

What does certification cost?

Application fees vary for each state, province or region.

How long does the entire process take?

The length of time varies depending on how long it takes for you to demonstrate competence in the areas specified by the state’s program requirements.

Are there books or training activities that will help me prepare for certification?

For information on activities that may help you prepare for certification, check out NAAEE Certification information or the Certifying Agent’s Web site, and/or come to an NAAEE annual conference.

Does certification expire?

To obtain NAAEE Accreditation, a certification program  should require you to be recertified at least once every five years, but NAAEE does not specify what the recertification requirements entail. The certifying agent should provide information about the recertification process when your certification is awarded.