Environmental Technician - Sampling and Monitoring

Program Description

Environmental Technician – Sampling and Monitoring (ESM) is an intensive 16–month diploma program geared to individuals with an interest in environmental sampling, monitoring, data collection and analysis. Graduates of ESM are well rounded environmental practitioners with a wide range of quantitative and qualitative skills making them desirable hires in the diverse environmental sector.

The core of the program is dedicated to experiential learning in the field, utilizing Seneca College’s 700–acre living laboratory on the provincially significant Oak Ridges Moraine. The property allows for extensive monitoring and sampling activities (soil, air, and water) that are part of real environmental projects.

You will be well versed in field skills (terrestrial/ aquatic ecology and identification), as well as laboratory skills (chemistry, hydrology, toxicology). The program has a critical focus on ecological methods deemed necessary by employers today. You will have the opportunity to graduate with multiple industry certifications, and are provided with networking and on–going work opportunities through our industry partners.

Pathways exist to other programs such as Environmental Technology and Project Management – Environmental among others.

Admission Requirements

Program Eligibility:

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma with a majority of senior credits at the College Preparation (C), University Preparation (U) or University/College Preparation (M) level or Mature Student Status (age 19 or older)
• Grade 12 English: ENG4(C) or ENG4(U)
• Grade 12 Mathematics*: MCT4(C) Mathematics for College Technology (recommended grade 60% or over) or Grade 12 (U) Mathematics, MHF4(U) (Advanced Functions) or MCV4(U) (Calculus and Vectors)

* Seneca may also consider applicants with good grades in MAP4(C) (80% or over recommended) or MCR3(U) (70% or over). Students with grades lower than these recommended benchmarks and who test below the appropriate level in the skills assessment can expect to be placed into a preparatory mathematics course or will be counselled to enroll in the Applied Science and Technology Fundamentals Certificate Program.

Note: All applicants who are offered admission to programs in the Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering Technology will have an English and Mathematics skills assessment. The assessments are used for academic placement in English and Mathematics courses that are appropriate to the student’s skill level. In the event a preparatory course is required before enrolling in the standard semester one English or Mathematics, students will automatically be timetabled into the appropriate preparatory course.

Applicant Selection:

• Applicant grades in pre–requisite subjects (or their equivalents) may be used as a basis for the selection of candidates.

The Importance of Learning Skills:

Student success in college requires well developed learning skills (such as being able to work independently, participate in a team, be well–organized, develop good work habits, and show initiative). These skills are as important as prior academic achievement. While it is expected that applicants would have developed these skills through previous education and life experiences, Seneca offers support to assist students with further development of these important skills. Seminars, workshops and tutoring are available at Seneca's Learning Centres.

Fees

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Your Career

Take your love of the outdoors to the next level. Turn your passion for the environment into a responsible and sustainable career. Your hands–on training will make you field–ready for a number of entry–level positions including environmental technician, environmental specialist, junior environmental scientist, field technician (air/water/soil) and environmental co–ordinator. Numerous other opportunities exist within the fields of natural science research, stewardship, and public education. Find work with government agencies (municipal, provincial, federal), conservation authorities, environmental consulting firms, non–profit organizations, and organizations dedicated to environmental education and public outreach.

Outdoor Skills Development

Skills such as canoeing, hiking, navigation, field safety, group management, backcountry travel and first aid are a priority in the program. During semester two, you will participate in the mandatory Outdoor Skills Development (OSD) workshop, a week–long immersion study in outdoor techniques and skills. The workshop includes an overnight woodland experience and the potential to earn certifications in first aid, navigation and marine safety.

In semester four, you will have the option of choosing to fulfil some of your final program evaluations in the field during a week–long trip to Algonquin Park and Haliburton Forest. In this week, you will choose an area of specialization and plan, execute and report on a sampling or monitor project of your own design.

Diploma to Degree... and Beyond

Through transfer agreements and institution partnerships, graduates of this Seneca College program may be eligible for credit at the following post-secondary institution(s):

Curriculum

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