Essentials of Natural Resource and Environmental Protection (MENREP)

Program Overview

The Essentials of Natural Resource and Environmental Protection Microcredential provides an overview of natural resource management and environmental protection, covering topics such as field techniques, mapping, protected areas, and climate change solutions. It prepares students for entry-level positions in the field and offers pathways for further education and career advancement.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Essentials of Natural Resource and Environmental Protection (MENREP) Microcredential is an online program that provides an overview of critical skills and techniques commonly used in natural resource-related jobs. It focuses on the theory and practice of conservation, management, and applied skills.

Objectives:

• Gain an understanding of what natural resources are and their importance to British Columbia.
• Familiarize with the agencies and levels of government responsible for managing natural resources (including mining, agriculture, fisheries, forestry, wildlife, and energy).
• Explore diverse career pathways that intersect with natural resource and environmental protection.
• Obtain familiarity with common field techniques and tools used in the environmental industry.
• Develop the ability to prepare a field notebook, collect, and manage data.
• Understand how to read maps and use common mapping technology, such as GPS.
• Gain knowledge about protected areas, their purpose, management, and benefits.
• Comprehend the intersection of climate change and natural resources in British Columbia.
• Learn about nature-based solutions to climate change and their significance in stabilizing Earth's climate.
• Understand various approaches and knowledge systems associated with natural resource governance.

Outline:

Course Schedule:

The courses may be offered in the evenings with asynchronous content posted online.

Modules:

RENR 1000: Introduction to Natural Resources Protection

• Introduces the concept of natural resources and environmental protection.
• Provides information on the different types of natural resources in British Columbia and their relationship to the environment.
• Explains the governance bodies responsible for managing various natural resources in the province and Canada.
• Explores career trajectories in environmental protection.

RENR 1001: Field Notes, Mensuration, and Data Collection for Environmental Professionals

• Reviews key mathematical calculations.
• Identifies standard field equipment for data collection.
• Demonstrates procedures for setting up photo point monitoring.
• Explains methods for recording and displaying field notes effectively.

RENR 1002: Maps and Mapping for Field Technicians

• Provides a basic understanding of map identification and interpretation.
• Emphasizes extracting key features and data from maps.

RENR 1003: Nature Based Solutions for Climate Change

• Defines nature-based solutions as actions that protect, conserve, and restore natural resources.
• Discusses their effectiveness in combating climate change, protecting biodiversity, and increasing community resilience.
• Provides examples of such solutions, such as soil conservation, reforestation, and restoring estuaries and wetlands.

RENR 1004: Protected Areas Management

• Defines protected areas and explains their roles and types.
• Explores the benefits of protected areas.
• Introduces the dual mandate of parks and the concept of ecological integrity.
• Reviews Canada's system of protected areas and commitments under the UN Convention on Biodiversity.
• Examines case studies of protected area management in British Columbia.

RENR 1005: Environmental Monitoring

• Provides context for the role and duties of an environmental monitor.
• Reviews basics of environmental monitoring applications in Western Canada, such as stream crossing installations, pipeline development, and land development.

RENR 1006: Natural Resource Governance

• Introduces the structure and function of government decision-making and its impact on society and natural resources.
• Familiarizes students with key policies and laws governing resources in British Columbia.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program is delivered online through live-streamed sessions and recorded lectures.
• Faculty: The instructors are drawn from BCIT and Vancouver Island University.
• Unique Approaches: The program combines theoretical concepts with practical skills to prepare students for entry-level positions in natural resource protection.
It also introduces advanced training pathways in natural resource management and environmental protection.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• The Microcredential opens doors to entry-level positions in natural resource protection, conservation, and environmental management.
• It prepares graduates for further education and training in related fields.
• Working professionals in adjacent disciplines can enhance their knowledge of sustainability and environmental issues by completing the program.

Opportunities:

• Job opportunities may exist in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector.
• Graduates will be qualified for junior roles, such as Environmental Technician, Field Assistant, Natural Resource Officer, or Conservation Officer.
• Advanced education and training can lead to supervisory, management, or policymaking positions in natural resource management, environmental planning, or sustainable development.