Certificate in Holistic Education
Lead with Compassion. Empower Human Potential.
Education – Holistic Education Certificate
Certificate in Holistic Education
Offered as an Academic Certification
The Certificate in Holistic Education equips students to support the well-being of individuals, families, schools, and communities through a whole-person approach. The program emphasizes intellectual, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual development, helping students understand how these dimensions work together to shape human potential. Grounded in principles of care, connection, and community, holistic education encourages meaningful relationships between people and the environment. Students explore practices that nurture well-being, strengthen empathy, and inspire a more peaceful and sustainable global future.
Career Possibilities
This certificate prepares students for meaningful roles in fields focused on wellness, education, community development, and human services. Graduates may find opportunities in:
- School and youth support programs
- Community and family outreach organizations
- Wellness education and enrichment programs
- Nonprofit or advocacy roles focused on human development
- Outdoor and experiential learning settings
- Early childhood and after-school program support
- Entry-level roles in holistic health and well-being services
It also enhances career paths for those already working in education, social services, healthcare support, or community-based organizations who want to deepen their understanding of whole-person development.
Degree Fit
Program Preparation
SOU’s Certificate in Holistic Education is open to students of all majors who are interested in building skills for teaching, counseling, coaching, and leadership that emphasize the integration of intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of learning.
Degree Roadmap
The Certificate in Holistic Education consists of 30 credits:
- Core courses (12-15 credits) consist of: Holistic Education (4 credits), Social Emotional Learning (3 credits), Core Reflection (3 credits), Play as Core Curriculum (3 credits), and/or International Study of Holistic Education (1-6 credits).
- Electives (9-15 credits) span the disciplines of Education, Early Childhood, Native American Studies, and Psychology.
- Field-based practicum (3-9 credits) in a setting that models holistic practices.
Degree Integration
Education faculty advisors are available to help you plan the best way to integrate this certificate into your major. Most students complete this certificate over two academic years, while working on their major in another subject area.
Guided Pathways
Contact: Dr. William Greene – greenew@sou.edu
Associate Degree Paths
Elementary Education Emphasis AA Transfer, KCC – Education AA Transfer, UCC
Similar Majors
Education Studies – Early Childhood Development – Psychology
Similar Minors & Certificates
Certificate in Early Childhood Education – Psychology, Minor
Similar Micro-Credentials
Sample Graduate Degrees
Master of Science in Education, SOU – Master of Arts in Teaching, OSU
Credit for Prior Learning – Learn More
Career Opportunities & Outlook
Contact the School of Education
SOU Education Program
1250 Siskiyou Blvd.
Ashland, OR 97520
541.552.6936
– Questions About The SOU Education Program? –