Occupational Endorsement Certificate in Natural Resources Technician

This program is delivered only through Prince William Sound College.

The Occupational Endorsement Certificate (OEC) in Natural Resource Technician provides Alaskan students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful employment at the technician level in natural resources through hands-on training and coursework. Students will learn technical skills from content experts, as well as communicative and social skills required for success in this growing field. They will also interact directly with natural resource management organizations that are in need of skilled technician level employees, facilitating a transition from the program to employment.

Admission Requirements

Special Considerations

  • Travel to and work in field settings for some projects.
  • Work in inclement weather and/or for extended periods of time for some courses.
  • Lift up to 22 kilograms for some projects.

Graduation Requirements

AGRI A104Conservation of Natural Resources3
BIOL A128Biota of Alaska: Introduction to Field Ecology3
GEOG A111Discovering Alaska and Earth's Physical Geography: From Weather to Glaciers3
Complete one of the following3
Fundamentals of Oral Communication
Small Group Communication
Introduction to College Writing
Writing Across Contexts
Complete four additional credits from the following: 14
Wilderness First Aid
Industrial Technology Internship
First Aid and CPR for Professionals
Basic Workplace Safety
Backpack Alaska
Strategies for College Success
Total16
1

Other relevant electives may be applied with departmental approval.

A minimum of 16 credits is required for the degree.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Students graduating with an Occupational Endorsement Certificate in Natural Resources Technician will be able to:

  • Perform relevant field tasks required of natural resource technicians

  • Use a broad range of technical tools to document, map, measure, record and analyze data.

  • Demonstrate an understanding of concepts and principles in natural resource management

  • Demonstrate a practical knowledge of Alaskan ecosystems

  • Identify and describe the important physical processes that shape the surface of the earth and produce global patterns.

  • Demonstrate proficiency in small group communication and collaboration