At Gaia U, we support students in becoming curious, adaptive leaders in sustainable design and regenerative practice through our Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in Integrative Ecosocial Design (IESD). Rather than prescribing fixed answers, we foster an action learning approach that encourages students to explore real-world complexities with humility, creativity, and rigor. Our learners engage in hands-on projects that are rooted in their lived realities, applying the best of what they know while remaining open to multiple pathways forward. Through this process, they develop practical, strategic solutions and regenerative livelihoods that have meaningful impact in their communities and beyond—grounded not in institutionalized certainty, but in lived inquiry and continuous learning.
Our Mission
At Gaia University, we empower individuals to become transformative leaders in ecosocial regenerative design through a dynamic, self-directed learning model. By blending theory with hands-on practice, we foster the development of practical skills, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking—enabling our students to co-create regenerative livelihoods and address complex, real-world challenges.
Our Vision
We envision a thriving global community of change makers – equipped to design innovative solutions, restore ecosystems, and build resilient, equitable futures. Through our unique action-based learning model, we aim to nurture a generation of leaders dedicated to ecological balance, social justice, and economic transformation.
Our Shared Values
Holistic Learning
We cultivate the head, heart, and hands. Our integrative curriculum invites students to grow intellectually, emotionally, and practically—balancing knowledge, self-awareness, and skill-building in equal measure.
Self-Direction and Design
Education at Gaia U is a co-creation. Students shape their pathways, projects, and specializations, developing deep ownership of their learning journey while honing critical, creative, and adaptive thinking.
Integrative Approach
We value diverse perspectives and disciplines. Through collaboration with communities, organizations, and mentors, students merge theory and practice to craft culturally relevant, systems-aware, and scenario-appropriate solutions.
Community Engagement
Rooted in place and grounded in practice, our students engage deeply with their communities. We prioritize local relevance, prototyping regenerative solutions in real-life settings, and nurturing meaningful connections.
Resiliency and Regeneration
We champion action learning that regenerates ecosystems, relationships, and livelihoods. Our programs invite students to design with nature, prioritize restoration, and grow personal and community resilience.
Adaptability and Flexibility
Life is dynamic—and so is learning. We support students studying from anywhere, integrating immersive experiences, and adapting to their goals as they evolve. We also make room for real-world transitions and feedback with agility and integration.
Action Un/Learning
Transformation begins from within. We support students through critical reflection, trauma- and privilege-informed practices, and unlearning limiting beliefs. This introspection lays the groundwork for conscious leadership and collective liberation, empowering us to function as intentional, meaningful agents of change in our lives and the world around us.
Curiosity and Emergent Knowing
We come from a place of curiosity—recognizing that no single framework or solution holds all the answers. We strive to apply the best of our knowledge, skills, and tools to each situation while honoring that multiple truths and approaches can coexist. Our action learning model does not aim to replicate institutionalized education, which often presumes right and wrong answers. Instead, we compassionately engage with complexity, hold space for uncertainty, and remain open to new possibilities. In this way, we cultivate a culture of lifelong learning, critical inquiry, and adaptive wisdom.
Systems-Based Design
Complex challenges call for whole systems thinking. Our students explore the interplay of ecology, economy, society, and culture – designing strategic, layered, and deeply informed interventions.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
We are committed to creating a welcoming and just learning environment. We embrace diverse ways of knowing, being, and learning – and actively center equity across all facets of our programs.
We believe that meaningful community begins with shared purpose. If our mission, vision, and values resonate with you, we warmly invite you to explore deeper connection with our work. At Gaia U, alignment in these core areas is the first step toward building a vibrant, collaborative, and resilient community—one where each person’s contributions are rooted in a common commitment to regeneration, curiosity, equity, and transformation. Whether you’re a learner, practitioner, or supporter, your alignment with our foundational principles is what allows us to co-create a space of trust, creativity, and mutual growth. If you feel that spark of resonance, we’d love to welcome you into the Gaia U community.
Our Commitment to Academic Integrity
Recently, Gaia U International participated in a cohort convened by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), alongside Program Directors from universities across the U.S.A. As part of this initiative, our programs are now aligned with the newly endorsed Sustainable Degree Program Guidelines developed by the Sustainability Education Accreditation Council (SEAC). While we have not yet received formal accreditation, this alignment underscores our commitment to delivering high-quality, future-focused education and reflects our active pursuit of full accreditation.