Program Overview
The Peninsula College Natural Resources Certificate program equips students with the knowledge and skills to manage and sustain natural resources. Through a holistic approach that combines science, technology, and sustainable practices, the program prepares students for careers in forestry, wildlife management, fisheries, and environmental conservation. Hands-on learning experiences, including outdoor exercises, laboratory experiments, and internships, provide practical experience in the field. Graduates are well-positioned for a range of careers in the natural resources sector, with potential earnings varying depending on the specific occupation.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Peninsula College Natural Resources Certificate program empowers students to embark on careers that support and sustain the delicate balance of the natural environment. Through a holistic approach that harmonizes science, technology, and sustainable practices, the program arms students with the knowledge and skills essential for the management of natural resources.
Objectives:
- To equip students with the foundational competencies required to maintain and enhance the well-being of forests and the broader natural surroundings.
- To impart technical expertise, empowering students to provide guidance on the conservation of soil, water, forests, and other interconnected natural resources.
- To foster data compilation capabilities, enabling students to gather and analyze critical information pertaining to the size, content, condition, and unique characteristics of forest areas.
- To cultivate collaboration skills, nurturing the ability to work effectively in teams to develop innovative solutions for the management of natural resources.
- To instill an understanding of the principles and practices of restoration ecology, empowering students to contribute to the restoration and revitalization of damaged environments and ecosystems.
Program Description:
The Natural Resources Certificate program is meticulously designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the field. The curriculum encompasses a wide range of topics, including forest ecology and management, geographic information systems (GIS) and forest mapping, silviculture, water quality, stream habitat monitoring, timber harvesting, forest road management, restoration ecology, fisheries, river restoration, fire science, and wildlife habitat management. The program's pedagogical approach emphasizes hands-on learning, ensuring that students gain practical experience in the field. Students engage in outdoor learning exercises in forests and waterways, participate in laboratory science experiments, attend classroom seminars, complete online course modules, and participate in internships in workplace settings.
Outline:
Content and Structure:
The Natural Resources Certificate program is structured into three quarters, with each quarter comprising a specific set of courses.
Total Credits: 15
Total Credits: 19
Third Quarter (Spring):
- FA 100: Industrial First Aid (1 credit)
Careers:
Career Opportunities and Earnings:
Students who complete the Natural Resources Certificate program are well-positioned for a diverse range of careers in the natural resources sector. Potential career paths include:
- Natural Resource Manager
- Forester
- Wildlife Biologist
- Fisheries Biologist
- Environmental Scientist
- Park Ranger
- Conservation Officer
- Water Quality Specialist
- GIS Analyst
- Environmental Educator
Earnings:
For current employment and wage estimates, please refer to bls.gov/oes and search for the relevant occupational term.
Peninsula College
Overview:
Peninsula College is a public community college located in the beautiful North Olympic Peninsula of Washington state. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including associate degrees, certificates, and bachelor's degrees. The college is known for its commitment to student success, community engagement, and academic excellence.
Services Offered:
Peninsula College provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Admissions:
Guidance on the application process, academic calendar, testing center, and transcript services.Registration:
Assistance with registering for classes, accessing the class schedule, and advising.Financial Aid:
Information on financial aid options, tuition and fees, scholarships, and workforce programs.Student Life:
Opportunities for student involvement, including athletics, clubs, and organizations.Career Center:
Resources for career exploration, job search, and internship opportunities.Library Resources:
Access to a wide range of books, journals, databases, and other research materials.Other Services:
Access services, campus safety, child care, food services, tutoring, and veterans services.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Peninsula College offers a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Students can participate in a variety of activities, including:
Athletics:
The college has a strong athletics program, with teams competing in the Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC).Clubs and Organizations:
Students can join a variety of clubs and organizations, such as the student government, honor societies, and cultural clubs.Events:
The college hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including lectures, concerts, and art exhibitions.Community Engagement:
Peninsula College encourages students to get involved in the local community through volunteer opportunities and service learning projects.Key Reasons to Study There:
Small Class Sizes:
Students benefit from personalized attention and close relationships with faculty.World-Class Faculty:
The college boasts a dedicated and experienced faculty committed to student success.Beautiful Location:
The college is situated in a stunning location with access to the Olympic Mountains, forests, and the Pacific Ocean.Affordable Education:
Peninsula College offers a high-quality education at an affordable price.Strong Transfer Programs:
Students can earn an associate degree and transfer to a four-year university.ʔaʔk̓ʷustəƞáwt̓xʷ House of Learning:
The college is home to the first longhouse in the nation built on a community college campus, offering a unique cultural experience.Academic Programs:
Peninsula College offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Associate Degrees:
In various fields, including arts and communication, business and management, healthcare, information technology, math and science, skilled trades, and social sciences and education.Certificates:
In specialized areas, such as welding, nursing, and business administration.Bachelor's Degrees:
In partnership with other institutions, the college offers bachelor's degrees in fields such as nursing and business administration.Other:
Location:
Peninsula College has campuses in Port Angeles, Port Townsend, and Forks.Quick Facts:
The college offers over 120 degrees and certificates, has an average class size of 11 students, and provides over $1 million in scholarships annually.Diversity and Inclusion:
The college is committed to creating an inclusive campus environment for all students.Entry Requirements:
Students entering this program should have good familiarity with computer software and hardware in the Windows or MAC environment. College-level skills in English and math (eligibility for courses numbered 100 or higher) are required before registering for the English, math, or applied math courses in this program.
