The challenges of nature conservation have become far more complex, operating in chaotic systems with high stakes. This has made addressing the conservation challenges multi-dimensional in scale and scope. It is pertinent and imperative that practitioners are equipped and updated with the necessary skills and knowledge that are multi-disciplinary and at the cutting edge. To address these requirements, The Habitats Trust and Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence launched the Conservation Practitioners’ Programme in 2025, and are now offering its second edition.
This programme covers the fundamentals of ecology, social sciences, field methodologies, use of technology, data analysis, intervention design, project planning & implementation, monitoring & evaluation, and other skills required for carrying out effective conservation. This nine-month certificate programme is taught by some of India’s leading experts.
With the goal of supporting conservationists in upskilling, the curriculum blends various skill sets and promotes interdisciplinary learning, grounded in both theory and real-world application, that can be imparted to any practitioner.
This programme is designed in a way that practitioners can continue to work and be able to learn. It aims to empower practitioners with the tools needed to safeguard India’s rich biodiversity and natural ecosystems.
It features flexible learning options to accommodate existing commitments, along with scholarship opportunities for enhanced accessibility.
Admissions open on July 6, 2026, and the last date to apply is Aug 3, 2026
The Conservation Practitioners’ Programme will upskill practitioners with the knowledge, skills, and tools required to address conservation issues using an interdisciplinary approach. The course has been thoughtfully developed and aims to be comprehensive and relevant to the current needs of conservation practitioners.
Eligibility and Key Programme Details
| Duration | Methodology | Certification | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 months, split into two terms starting from September 2026 | Online classes: The programme is delivered through a mix of pre-recorded sessions, accessible at any time, and live discussion sessions conducted after 6 PM, enabling participation alongside full-time work (~4–6 hours per week in total). Bootcamps: A two-week bootcamp, offering hands-on practical learning and opportunities to interact face-to-face with other professionals in the field. |
A certificate from the Academy of Continuing Education at the Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence will be awarded to students who attain the minimum required scores. | Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from any stream. Applicants need to have more than two years of work experience in the conservation sector to be eligible for the course Applicants are required to have working proficiency in English, as it will be the language of instruction for the course |