You will need to complete the following to graduate and obtain a certificate of completion:

• View all 10 virtual modules (includes 2 virtual field trips) on your own time or at a Watch Party
• Complete brief assignments for each module
• Attend or view the recordings of (3) office hours with Academy instructors
• Submit a Program Completion form at the conclusion of the Academy

Yes, you will be able to obtain a certificate of completion as long as you complete the 10 virtual modules and assignments for each. However, you will not be considered a full NYC Trash Academy graduate and are not eligible for associated alumni benefits.

The NYC Trash Academy Drop-In option is for participants interested in viewing any or all of the modules at their own pace, without participating in any other part of our full program.

While we encourage you to take advantage of the highly flexible and interactive nature of our traditional program to make the most out of the experience, we understand that everyone has their own preferences and needs.

Please note that Watch Parties, Office Hours, and any of our hybrid/in-person events (orientation, graduation, field trips) are not open to drop-in participants. See comparison chart below (click to expand).

You, if you're free! The orientation is an optional in-person meet and greet taking place on January 21st at 6pm in midtown Manhattan. Light refreshments will be provided. Additional details will be provided to those admitted to the full program. This event is not open to drop-in participants. 

Come meet others in your cohort and ask us any questions. There will be structured activities as well as the opportunity to stay and continue chatting with other participants - or head out! Whatever you are most comfortable with. We look forward to meeting you.

For those unable to make it in person, there will be an option to join virtually.

You can watch the 10 virtual modules on-demand at your own pace or with other participants at our scheduled watch parties.

The Watch Parties are completely optional and informal events taking place on Zoom. You will be able to watch the module simultaneously with others in your cohort and connect via the chat function. Watch Parties are only available to participants of the full program.

The three virtual Office Hours gives you the opportunity to come together with other participants to discuss the modules and ask instructors questions. Office Hours 1 will cover modules 1-3, Office Hours 2 will cover modules 4-6 and Office Hours 3 will cover modules 7-8 & Field Trips.

Office Hours will be recorded if you are not able to make it to the live virtual events. Live Office Hours and recordings are only available to full program participants.

While it is not necessary to watch the modules in any particular order, if you are a full program participant, you will need to watch the modules and complete the assignments for each module before their corresponding Office Hours.

Reach out to us at academy@sanitationfoundation.org. We're happy to help!