Frequently Asked Questions

Learn the answers to the most Frequently Asked Questions for the Environmental Technician Program.

How do I know if I am the right fit for this program?

This program is well-suited for students who:

  • Seek an active, outdoor, hands-on learning environment.
  • Are eager to measure, monitor, protect and improve the environment.
  • Want to become familiar with both field and laboratory methods used broadly in the environmental sector.

How do students complete the program in 16 months?

Students who start the program in September will be done by December the following year, in only 16 months with a total of 42 weeks of studies. Each semester is four months long:

  • First semester is September to December
  • Second semester is January to April
  • Optional Co-op term is May to August
  • Final semester is September to December

I will be funding my studies in part with OSAP. How does the payment schedule work with this compressed program format?

You will receive your OSAP funding in two installments during your first year and two installments during your final semester:

First-Year

  • 1st installment: When you begin your studies (e.g., September)
  • 2nd installment: During your second semester (e.g., January)
  • You will reapply for OSAP funding over the summer months after your first-year

Second-Year, Final Semester

  • 1st installment: When you begin your final semester of studies (e.g., September)
  • 2nd installment normally is deposited into your bank account in late October or early November

What documents do students need to submit to the College?

Prior to starting the program, all Environmental Technician students must submit the following item(s):

  • Assumption of Risk & Release Form
  • A current Standard First Aid and CPR certification is preferred prior to registration. Otherwise, the student must obtain the certificate within the first two months of the first level.

How does the optional paid co-op work?

Qualified students with a minimum GPA of 2.7 have the opportunity to apply for a Cooperative Education (Co-op) Work Term. The term is four months in duration and is completed during the summer term (May to August). To be eligible, students must have successfully completed the first two semesters of the program in good academic standing. Students are required to pay a co-op fee and complete at least 420 hours during their co-op work experience.

Where do students get co-op placements and where do they work after graduation?

Students who participate in co-op placements gain valuable on-the-job experience, and the opportunity to build their contacts, and make a favourable impression on the employer. In the past, we have had co-op students complete their term at water and wastewater treatment facilities, conservation authorities, power plants, engineering companies, consulting firms and in applied research. Many employers use co-op as a means to groom students for future employment with the company.

How do I apply for the co-op program?

Students will apply for co-op in their program of study in September using an online application form on HireAC. When the application portal on HireAC is open, students will be notified by email and provided with instructions on how to apply. The application portal will be open for roughly seven business days.

For answers to more typical Student Co-op questions, please visit: www.algonquincollege.com/pembroke/coop

Is there a fee that students must pay to participate in the optional paid co-op?

Yes. Co-op fees are paid in three installments, by semester

  • Preparation Term (September to December): $186.33
  • Job Search Term (January to April): $186.33
  • Work Placement Term (May to August): $186.33
  • Total Co-op Fee: $559

*Please note that co-op is optional, and not mandatory for program completion and is therefore not included in Program Tuition Fees

Do I need to have any specific equipment prior to the start of the program?

Yes. Students should arrive with a CSA approved hard hat, CSA approved work boots, a Fox 40 whistle, a high visibility vest and chest waders. There are some additional one-time equipment requirements, at a cost of approximately $500, which are explored during the program. Learn more by visiting the Required Equipment List.

Is there an opportunity to earn industry certifications in this program?

Yes. Students have the opportunity to obtain a minimum of seven industry-related certifications targeted at enhancing their employment opportunities. These certifications can be personalized to meet your career goals.

How “hands-on” is the program?

Students will spend approximately 25% of their time outdoors completing fieldwork and sampling, 25% in the lab, 25% learning theoretical principles, and 25% in self-guided/hybrid studies. Students in this program are also involved in several Applied Research projects including our largest community/college initiative, the Muskrat Lake Watershed Monitoring Network, where students have the opportunity to work in the field collecting data on water quality using various types of equipment and applying classroom theory to real environmental issues.