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.

Watch our Youtube playlist about the Environmental Technician program: Environmental Technician – What to know – YouTube

How do students complete the program in 12 months?

Students who start the program in September will be done by August the following year, in only 12 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
  • Final semester is May to August

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 will I get to and from my field trips?

As a student registered in the Environmental Technician program at Algonquin College’s Pembroke Waterfront Campus, you will spend significant time in the field as your program has extensive field trips to enhance your learning experience. You will be expected to attend all of these field trips as part of your program of study. Many of the locations that students visit will be inaccessible by car, unsafe for parking your personal vehicle, or have limited space for parking. For this reason, students are strongly encouraged to purchase a bus pass through the Campus Proud Shop to ensure they don’t have to worry about transportation to and from field trip locations.

The cost of the bus pass is outlined below. Note that there are fewer field trips in the Winter months, so the bus cost is lower than in the Fall terms of your program.

Level 1:

  • Fall: $210
  • Winter: $50

Level 3 (starting in September 2025):

  • Fall: $197

You can purchase your bus pass through the Proud Shop during your program orientation day. If you are unable to attend your program orientation, the bus passes will be available during the first week of school in September by visiting the Proud Shop, which is located on the first floor of the campus, next to the library.

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.