DIVISION OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & CONTINUING EDUCATION
This certificate will open for enrollment in the Spring 2027 Semester
The Regenerative Grazing and Livestock Systems Certificate Program prepares you for a fulfilling career in the livestock farming industry. In this hybrid, 24-credit accredited program, you will develop the well-rounded skills to manage ruminant (beef and dairy cattle, sheep and goat) grazing, as the cornerstone of a modern and profitable agricultural operation. Through coursework and a capstone internship experience you will be connected to leaders in the agricultural practices of adaptive multi-paddock grazing, and develop a host of unique skills to put regenerative grazing into practice. Areas of study include: fence and water system design, sound pasture plant management, soil health management, selection criteria for livestock genetics, development of comprehensive grazing management plans, and, the right business and problem-solving skills to run a successful and modern livestock business.
Flexibility: You can enroll in this certificate program as a stand-alone credential or add it to your Vermont State program of study for elective credits. No in-person residency is required, with all lectures delivered remotely.
Experiential Learning: This certificate provides hands-on practice to understand both the science and the art of successfully raising animals on pasture. Gain the confidence and competence to develop a grazing management plan, install grazing systems, and manage a successful grazing operation. Focused in-person intensives are held at our Randolph, VT campus and select partner sites, to enable hands-on skill building. Instruction includes exclusive tours and activities with industry-leading farms and visionaries.
Interdisciplinary Study: This program covers all the bases, emphasizing practical work-ready skills and a solid understanding of the business of grazing. This requires a careful integration of sustainable land management fundamentals with a business-savvy mindset.
Career Opportunity: Upon completion of this certificate, you’ll have the know-how to start or run a grazing farm, obtain work as a farm manager, become a technical service provider, or work for state, federal and other regional agricultural organizations that aid farmers.
Affordable and Accessible: At only 24 credits, this certificate provides a low-cost option to longer, more costly, degree programs. Courses can be completed in as short as two semesters (including an internship), or over a longer-time frame, to fit around your personal schedule and availability.
Meat Facility Director
Training and Internship Manager
Division of Professional Development & Continuing Education is Vermont State University’s hub of connectivity. Here, we’re focused on access, flexibility, quality, and hands-on learning that meet the workforce needs of Vermonter's.
Castleton | Johnson | Lyndon | Randolph | Williston
124 Admin Drive, PO Box 500Randolph Center, VT 05061