Environmental Technician
Preserve ecosystems for the future - explore a career in the environmental sciences!
- Enjoy a more personalized learning environment with our small classes
- Benefit from supportive and experienced faculty who are active in their industry
- Gain the latest and best industry-specific knowledge and skills to be career-ready upon graduation
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
International
Availability
Competitive?
Fall 2025
No
Schedule
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Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Work Integrated Learning
The two-year Environmental Technician program, delivered in a compressed format over 42 weeks, offers theoretical and extensive practical education in all areas of environmental sciences.
You explore the disciplines of biology, chemistry, physical science and engineering as you learn to collect, measure and analyze variables commonly considered in environmental studies. Gain field and laboratory experience in soil, water and air testing as you develop a basic knowledge of:...(read more)
Overview
Preserve ecosystems for the future - explore a career in the environmental sciences!
The two-year Environmental Technician program, delivered in a compressed format over 42 weeks, offers theoretical and extensive practical education in all areas of environmental sciences.
You explore the disciplines of biology, chemistry, physical science and engineering as you learn to collect, measure and analyze variables commonly considered in environmental studies. Gain field and laboratory experience in soil, water and air testing as you develop a basic knowledge of:
- freshwater environment systems
- soils and land forms
- the chemistry of pollutants
- ecological processes
Use the appropriate tools and equipment needed in biology, hydrology, ecological field sampling and analytical chemistry.
This program includes applied research projects that allow you to apply skills and theory to real environmental issues, all while supporting important community initiatives, such as:
- water quality monitoring and implementation of agricultural best management practices in the Muskrat Lake watershed
- environmental assessment analysis and reporting for a real local municipal project
- soil testing, weather/climate monitoring, contaminated site assessment, and wildlife and vegetation sampling
Upon graduation, you are ready to help meet the current and growing need for skilled entry-level practitioners within the environmental sciences sector. Graduates may find entry-level employment in roles such as:
- remediation technician
- field sampling technician
- geographical information systems (GIS) technician
- contaminated site assessor
- environmental assessor
- water and wastewater facility operator
- environmental consultant
SUCCESS FACTORS
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.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
BIO7612
Course Name:
Environmental Biology
Course Description:
Students are introduced to the fundamental principles of biology and microbiology, particularly as they relate to the environment. Students ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CHE7611
Course Name:
Environmental Chemistry
Course Description:
Students are exposed to the fundamental principles of chemistry that build the foundation for understanding chemistry applications in the en... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
DAT7670
Course Name:
Computer Applications
Course Description:
The ability to communicate effectively using technology is essential in the education and employment fields. Students develop and apply coll... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
ENL7777
Course Name:
Communications I
Course Description:
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-orient... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENV7401
Course Name:
Freshwater Environments
Course Description:
Physical, chemical and biological characteristics of freshwater environments are introduced. Students specifically gain an understanding of ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENV7402
Course Name:
Field Botany
Course Description:
Students gain hands-on field experience in the identification of Ontario's trees, shrubs and groundcover herbaceous plants. Leaf, stem and f... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
FOR7314
Course Name:
Soils and Landforms
Course Description:
Soils form part of the basis for good growth in forests. The need to keep soils healthy through forest activities is vital. The characterist... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MAT7205
Course Name:
Mathematics
Course Description:
Mathematical principles that are required to solve numerical problems in the environmental sciences are introduced. Emphasis is placed on th... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SCI7614
Course Name:
Physical, Chemical and Biological Sampling
Course Description:
Students practise the appropriate field methods and protocols required to collect a wide range of air, water, soil and biological samples. S... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ADN7104
Course Name:
Ecology
Course Description:
A sound ecological foundation that includes a broad overview of ecological concepts and terms provides guides and naturalists with the funda... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL7669
Course Name:
Communications for Environmental Technicians
Course Description:
Students develop workplace communication skills. Topics include technical writing style; critical reading; written and oral reports; employm... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENV7413
Course Name:
Hydrology and Hydrogeology
Course Description:
The hydrological cycle, the movement of water through the atmosphere and on the earth's surface and subsurface is introduced. The physical p... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENV7418
Course Name:
Wildlife Identification
Course Description:
Students learn to identify and classify various Ontario species of fish, amphibians, reptiles and mammals by their common names. The unique ... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
ENV7419
Course Name:
Project Management for Environmental Technicians
Course Description:
Environmental Technicians should be able to write, communicate and interpret a project scope of work. Students identify and apply skills and... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENV7420
Course Name:
Contaminants in the Environment
Course Description:
Students gain a broad understanding of existing natural and man-made contaminants in the environment, and understand their potential impacts... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENV7421
Course Name:
Water and Wastewater Treatment Technologies
Course Description:
Students gain a comprehensive overview of key aspects of water and wastewater treatment technologies including site visits at local faciliti... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
GIS7315
Course Name:
Geographical Information Systems
Course Description:
Analysis of spatial data is introduced. Students learn to efficiently use ESRI's ArcMAP software as the primary geographical information sys... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
GED1212
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENV7415
Course Name:
Field Certifications
Course Description:
Students have the opportunity to gain certifications in various preferred specialties. Possible certifications include: Electrofishing, Plea... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENV7437
Course Name:
Environmental Issues and Solutions
Course Description:
Students learn about key global, regional and local environmental issues, proposed solutions and their inter-dependencies. Students are requ... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ENV7438
Course Name:
Environmental Assessments
Course Description:
Environmental Assessments (EAs) are legislated requirements for many environmentally related projects. Students have the opportunity to cond... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ENV7439
Course Name:
Contaminated Site Assessment
Course Description:
Environmental Site Assessments are legislated requirements for many private and government owned properties. ESAs identify the presence and ... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ENV7440
Course Name:
Land and Water Stewardship
Course Description:
The responsible management of land and water resources is an integral component in understanding management practices that support sustainab... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ENV7441
Course Name:
Remediation Strategies
Course Description:
Successful environmental site remediation requires an understanding of the site characteristics and application of available tools to evalua... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MAT7221
Course Name:
Environmental Data Analysis
Course Description:
Interpreting results is a critical aspect of environmental studies. Students are introduced to the following topics in statistics: the colle... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
AST2000
Course Name:
Introduction to Astronomy
Course Description:
What can the sky tell us about our place in the universe, and how life began? This introductory course to astronomy will teach students indi... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1726
Course Name:
Symbols, Text and Meaning
Course Description:
Symbols and text are used to express, evoke, and manipulate an entire range of human emotions and reactions. In this interactive, discussion... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENV5004
Course Name:
Waste-Free Ontario
Course Description:
Ontario continues to generate more and more waste; historically, three quarters of this waste has been discarded. In this course, learners a... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
FIN2300
Course Name:
Introduction to Personal Finance
Course Description:
Establishing and maintaining healthy personal financial affairs are important steps towards overall success in life. Through self-study of t... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED0021
Course Name:
Disability in Arts: Portrayals and Identity
Course Description:
All forms of art have a powerful influence on our perceptions. Students describe and explore through case studies a range of disabilities an... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED0022
Course Name:
Positive Psychology: the Science of Happiness and Well-Being
Course Description:
While fulfillment and well-being mark some people's lives, many others remain dissatisfied with life. Positive Psychology is concerned with ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED2200
Course Name:
Free Speech and the Challenge of Social Media
Course Description:
This course will allow students to explore social media and its effects on free speech and public discourse in contemporary society. It will... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5002
Course Name:
Victimology
Course Description:
An increased awareness of the ripple effect of crime has given rise to victimology as a significant field of study. Students investigate vic... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5003
Course Name:
The Science of Play
Course Description:
Toys and games, key components of play, have evolved from homemade trinkets to highly engineered items in a multi-billion-dollar industry. S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5004
Course Name:
Living Green
Course Description:
The need to lead healthy, environmentally conscious lives is increasingly important. Students acquire the practical knowledge and skills req... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5005
Course Name:
Greek Mythology
Course Description:
Students explore intriguing characters, important places and famous myths of Classical Greece. By examining a variety of popular myths, stud... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5006
Course Name:
World Religions
Course Description:
In Canada, society embraces people from many cultures of the world. By exploring different religious beliefs about the world, the individual... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5007
Course Name:
Transatlantic Slavery and Its Abolition
Course Description:
The effects of transatlantic slavery, which began in the 15th century and was not abolished until the 19th, are still present in contemporar... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5010
Course Name:
The Fungus Among Us
Course Description:
Understanding fungi is critical for a more complete picture of both natural history, as well as historical and current human affairs. Studen... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5200
Course Name:
Supporting Learning Differences in Society
Course Description:
Students gain an awareness of learning differences in various contexts including social, educational, and work settings. The field of learni... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5300
Course Name:
The Science of Everyday Life
Course Description:
The mysteries of science surround us constantly and play a significant role in everyone's daily life regardless of their level of awareness.... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5301
Course Name:
On Death, Dying and Medical Assistance in Dying (Maid)
Course Description:
Though death is an immutable consequence of life, society's attitudes and reactions to it have been ever-changing. The viewpoint that life i... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED6022
Course Name:
A Sense of Humour
Course Description:
Humour is a universal tool of communication and social influence. Students survey the development, use, and value of humour in Canadian visu... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED7019
Course Name:
Becoming an Entrepreneur: Is It for Me?
Course Description:
Do you have what it takes to be an entrepreneur? From government incentive and mentoring programs, to courses, training programs and realit... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEN1001
Course Name:
Ethics: What Is the Big Deal?
Course Description:
In today's society there is increasingly more attention focused on questions of right or wrong, good or evil. Ethical issues relating to a w... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEN1957
Course Name:
Science Fiction
Course Description:
Science fiction is both a major genre of popular entertainment and an effective mode of social commentary. Students explore the formal conve... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEN2003
Course Name:
Healthy Lifestyle
Course Description:
Are you eating healthy foods? Do you exercise regularly? Do you know how to prevent injuries and disease? These are some of the skills neces... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEN2007
Course Name:
Community Service
Course Description:
Volunteerism not only benefits a community; it can broaden the worldview of the volunteer. Students who give their time and energy to an app... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEO0012
Course Name:
Foreign Landscapes and Their Inhabitants
Course Description:
Understanding the natural environment and the geological features and landscapes that shape our world is vital for students to have a greate... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
HIS0001
Course Name:
Saints and Heroes: Shining a Spotlight on the 'Dark Ages', Europe A.D. 410-1096
Course Description:
When the mighty Roman Empire began to collapse, it was attacked from all directions by Barbarian armies. The resulting turmoil caused Europe... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
HOS2228
Course Name:
Wine, Food and Culture
Course Description:
An understanding of culture can be discovered by exploring eating and drinking customs. Students experience a virtual global tour, exploring... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LIB1982
Course Name:
Reading for Recreation
Course Description:
Reading gives us knowledge and new ideas to draw from in the future. It tones the mind in ways similar to the way exercise tones the body. A... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MGT7330
Course Name:
Trends in Today's Workplace
Course Description:
In today's culture of work, every employee needs to be knowledgeable about current trends and issues in the workplace. Students explore emer... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MVM8800
Course Name:
The Impact of the Car on North American Culture
Course Description:
Students explore the social, economic, political, and environmental impact of the automobile on North American lives. Through a combination ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PSI0003
Course Name:
Globalization and Sustainability
Course Description:
The rapid growth of the global economy raises fundamental questions: How do trade and politics affect development and the environment? What ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
RAD2001
Course Name:
Popular Culture
Course Description:
One dictionary definition of popular culture is the "totality of socially transmitted behaviour patterns, arts, beliefs, institutions, and a... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SCI2200
Course Name:
Dynamic Dna: You Are Not Alone
Course Description:
DNA is the recipe book for all living things. This small molecule can tell us about our past, present, and future. It is what makes us all u... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SOC2003
Course Name:
Understanding Human Sexuality
Course Description:
Students study human sexuality through an interdisciplinary approach. Students gain a basic understanding of human sexuality through an inve... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED1212
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates may find entry-level employment in the compliance and promotion sectors, as remediation technicians, in the areas of water and wastewater treatment operations, as contaminated site assessment technicians or working within the consulting industry as environmental practitioners.
Pathways
Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Collect representative environmental samples and perform routine tests, using current and relevant tools.
- Use scientific concepts and models when contributing to the prevention, control and elimination of environmental hazards and remediation of contaminated sites.
- Assist with analysis of water/soil/air samples and with the resolution of environmental problems through the application of scientific and engineering principles.
- Follow standard procedures for conducting environmental sampling projects including the use of appropriate equipment and materials.
- Promote and maintain sustainable practices by applying the elements of ecosystem-based management.
- Carry out work responsibilities adhering to standards of professional conduct and principles of professional ethics.
- Complete assigned tasks in adherence to occupational health and safety standards and applicable legislative requirements.
- Follow established protocols in support of environmental management systems.
- Provide ongoing support for project management.
- Communicate technical information accurately and effectively in oral, written, visual and electronic forms.
- Develop and present strategies for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance performance as an environmental technician.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2024/2025 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program-related expenses include:
Textbooks and supplies cost approximately $300-$400 during the program and can be purchased at the campus store. Additionally, required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) costs approximately $300-$400, and additional certifications and licenses are required, which cost approximately $350 throughout the program. Expenses are subject to change.
Students should arrive with a CSA approved hard hat, CSA approved work boots, a Fox 40 whistle, a high visibility vest and chest waders.Due to the nature of your program, you are required to participate in learning that takes place throughout the diverse forests of the Ottawa Valley including trips to the Petawawa Research Forest, a nationally recognized centre of excellence for forestry and environmental research. Students are expected to make their own way to sites within the City of Pembroke. However, for more distant, off campus locations, where parking is unsafe, unavailable, or limited, bus transportation is required. For your purchase convenience, an Environmental Technician student term bus pass is available for purchase in the Campus Proud shop at the following rates (based on required use): Fall $210, Winter $50, Spring $197.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or Mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
- Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent).
- Biology Grade 11 or 12 is strongly recommended
- Chemistry Grade 11 or 12 is strongly recommended.
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT) Overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20 OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 120, minimum of 120 in Literacy and no score below 105.
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English and mathematics.
A current Standard First Aid and CPR certificate is preferred prior to registration. Otherwise, the student must obtain the certificate within the first two months of the first level. Students must also obtain WHMIS certification within the first two months of the first level.
Application Information
ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNICIAN
Program Code 1212X04FPM
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario
N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available. applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College in the Ottawa Valley
1 College Way
Pembroke, ON K8A0C8
Local: 613-735-4700
Toll-free 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 1-866-620-3845
Fax: 613-735-4739
https://algonquincollege.com/pembroke
Additional Information
Program Resources
Please note that students attend classes for three consecutive semesters, starting in the Fall (Sept) and graduating at the end of Summer (August).
Contact
Kristi Beatty
Program Coordinator
Kristi was raised in the small rural town of Campbellford, ON. Living across from Ferris Provincial Park, she quickly found her love of nature, roaming the forests and learning about wildlife. A deep passion for animals leads to countless hours spent tagging along with local veterinarians and outdoor enthusiasts, learning about animal care and treatment, camping, canoeing, and bush-craft.
This early experience lead Kristi to Trent University, where she obtained an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, with a major in Ecology. She is currently enrolled in courses on Avian health and welfare, and Equine nutrition, and has her sights set on obtaining a masters degree in an environmental field.
Since graduating, Kristi has held diverse positions in the environmental industry, including working for Ducks Unlimited Canada, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, and the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters. She has over 16 years of experience as a Biologist and Project Manager and is on the Executive of the local Ducks Unlimited chapter. Her current position with Ontario Resource Management Group has included projects ranging from small habitat protection plans, through to multi-million dollar hydroelectric facilities. She has worked with individual landowners, private companies, Provincial and Federal government agencies, First Nations, NGOs, and large corporate developers. Kristi has extensive experience in the identification of flora and fauna, Species at Risk surveys and permit applications, Ecological Land Classification analyses, Ontario Wetland Evaluations, Aggregate Resources Act planning and assessment, and Wildlife habitat management and mitigation.
Kristi joined Algonquin College in 2012 as a professor of Ecology for the Environmental Technician program. Currently, she also teaches Environmental Chemistry, as well as Wildlife ID for Naturalists in the Outdoor Adventure Naturalist program, and Ecological Land Classification training for the Forestry Technician and Urban Forestry – Arboriculture programs. As someone currently employed in the Environmental industry, Kristi knows the field and lab skills and training that new graduates need to be successful. She willingly passes on her knowledge to her students, and is always open to spirited discussions on environmental and ecological issues!