Countering Environmental Risks and Threats (CERT) is a four-week course (two weeks distance-learning and two weeks in-residence) designed to educate participants on the impact of environmental threats and degradation on defense and security policy. It aims to improve nations' abilities to respond to climate-induced disasters, understand the threats posed to communities, and share governmental efforts to mitigate these effects. The course includes lectures, breakout discussion groups, moderated panels, and field trips, focusing on regional cooperation and the role of security institutions. Additionally, it supports the Perry Center’s goal of enhancing security through mutual understanding and collaborative action.
CERT course objectives include the following:
Information Forthcoming
Candidates must be professionally engaged in the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of environment-related issues, coming from the following institutions/activities:
Candidates who have completed the Climate Change and Impacts on Defense and Security (CCIDS) course are not eligible to apply to this course.
Perry Center graduates are required to wait a minimum of 18 months between attending in-residence courses and are barred from attending the same course more than once. The Washington Security and Defense Seminar (WSDS) is exempt from both of these limitations.
In accordance with Department of Defense policy, citizens of “high income” countries (as established by the World Bank) are not eligible for scholarships. As of 01 July 2024, this restriction applies to the following Western Hemisphere nations and territories:
Citizens of these countries may still apply to courses, but in a fully self-funded status. Self-funded candidates must meet all eligibility standards and comply with all application requirements, including application deadlines, as well as being able to cover the expenses of their own travel, lodging, meals, and incidentals. US citizens cannot (by law) receive scholarships, but may also apply to attend in a self-funded status. US citizens and other self-funded candidates should contact the Registrar’s Office for additional guidance.
Candidates must possess a university degree or, in cases where a candidate does not hold a degree, equivalent practical experience. Military and police personnel must have completed a command and staff course or equivalent. Exceptions are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
This course is conducted in Spanish. Non-native speakers must demonstrate the ability to speak and write in Spanish at a bilingual level prior to acceptance and enrollment.
