Do I need science courses to apply?
Yes. Students who have backgrounds in biology or chemistry, or some combination of those theory courses and laboratory courses experience higher levels of success. If you are considering this program and do not have previous science courses, please reach out to the coordinator to discuss.
What kinds of jobs do graduates of the program have?
Graduates find themselves in an array of jobs, including environmental policy and regulation in the government or private sector, or field work with environmental consulting or construction companies.
Our EMA graduates have a wide range of career opportunities available to them upon completing their studies, including the following roles:
- Assistant Resource Management Technician
- Environment and Social Governance Compliance Assistant
- Environmental Assistant/Scientist
- Environmental Consultant
- Environmental Field Technician
- Environmental Management & Assessment Assistant
- Environmental Technician/Technologist
- Environmental/Health Safety Technician
- Geoscience Assessment Officer
- GIS Assistant/Technician/Analyst
- Hazardous Materials Assessor
- Junior Geotechnical Field Technician
- Lab Technician
- Materials Testing Facility Technician
- Quality Assurance Engineering Assistant
- Research Assistant
- Site/Field Project Coordinator
- Survey technician
- Sustainability Project Assistant/Manager
- Water Analysis/Treatment Technician
- Water Resources Technician
When will I be in class? When will I be on campus?
The EMA program is delivered to maximize learning opportunities, though in-person learning, using classroom, laboratory, and field locations. Due to the program’s high hands-on component, attendance at all classes is expected.
Your theory classes will be delivered in person during the week, although some classes may have an online component. During the weekends you will have classes and labs at the Ottawa campus for hands-on skills development. The course load is a full-time program, but some students do continue to work full- or part-time while in school.
To familiarize yourself with the Ottawa campus, visit https://www.algonquincollege.com/maps/ottawa-campus/.
Is there an online version of the program?
No, the program is very hands-on and you are expected to attend all classes and laboratories in person. While some courses might have online components, most of the program is delivered in person.
Is there a part-time version of the program?
No, but you can take a reduced workload. If you are an international student, please ensure you follow all the rules and regulations of your study permit. For additional information, please visit the International Education Centre (IEC) at https://www.algonquincollege.com/international/student-handouts/part-time-international-students/.
Is co-op mandatory? Do I have to find the placement myself?
No, Co-op is an optional version of the Environmental Management and Assessment (EMA) program and takes place during the Spring and Winter terms after successfully completing levels 01 and 02. Since Co-op is optional, students can opt out of the co-op version of the program.
To qualify for Co-op, students must maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.5 and complete the co-op preparation course in level 1. More information on co-op eligibility is available at https://www.algonquincollege.com/coop-career-centre/students/co-op-eligibility/.
While you are responsible for finding your co-op placement, the college will assist with resume and job interview preparation and provide access to the HireAC co-op job board to apply for jobs that align with your interest.
I’m an international student and I want to complete the program in the Co-op stream. Do I need a study permit?
Yes, you need a study permit to complete the EMA program in the Co-op stream. If you have any questions related to study permits, please contact the International Education Centre (IEC) at https://www.algonquincollege.com/international/ircc-information/.
What type of equipment will I need for the EMA program?
For the laboratory, you will need a long white lab coat to protect the clothes underneath. You also need safety glasses, CSA-approved safety boots, a hard hat, and a high-visibility vest.
For the GIS courses (GIS4010 and GIS4011), you will need a laptop (Bring Your Own Device – BYOD) that meets the hardware requirements to run ArcGIS Pro. Click here to check your computer’s ability to run ArcGIS Pro. You can also use the College computers available in the lab. More information is available at https://www.algonquincollege.com/byod/programs/ema/
When will I know the schedule of my EMA classes?
Timetables, or schedules, are typically accessible in your ACSIS account four weeks before classes begin. Although all classes are conducted in person, certain components may be held online, either asynchronously or synchronously. If a course displays a room number, it indicates that the class will be held in person.
Will I need to buy any textbooks?
No, usually, all the learning material is available in Brightspace. You can also use the library to access diverse resources online and on paper.
Is there a class schedule for the program from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm each day?
No, classes can occur at different times during the week, and laboratories or field work can occur on the weekends. You will know your detailed schedule four weeks before classes begin.
How to succeed in the EMA program?
You are strongly urged to plan ahead and effectively manage your time to attend all classes, study, and submit assignments on time. This is especially critical if you are working while studying in the program.
How much group work am I going to do?
You can expect a significant amount of group work. The EMA program emphasizes collaboration and teamwork, as these skills are essential in the environmental field. Several courses will include group projects, presentations, and multiple hands-on activities that require you to work closely with your peers. This approach enhances your learning experience and prepares you for real-world environmental management and assessment scenarios where teamwork is crucial.
What is a passing grade in this program?
The passing grade in the EMA program is 50% or higher. For additional information, please visit policy AA14: Grading System.
Where can I find more information about the industry?
According to ECO Canada (2021), the environmental sector is driven by several key factors, including climate change, policy changes, economic fluctuations, public demand for sustainable options, and the industry’s need for certifications. These drivers are shaping the sector’s focus on sustainability, natural resource management, energy, fisheries and wildlife, and environmental health and safety (H&S).
The forecast for the environmental job market is promising, with an anticipated 173,000 jobs by 2025 (ECO Canada, 2021). This growth will include 43% new job openings and 57% replacement demand, indicating a robust need for skilled professionals. To meet this demand, individuals with technical skills in project management, budgeting, scheduling, planning, customer service, quality assurance and control, business development and sales, and digital skills will be highly sought after.
In addition to technical expertise, personal skills are crucial for success in this field (ECO Canada, 2021). Employers are looking for candidates who excel in communication, teamwork and collaboration, problem-solving, research and analytical skills, and relationship-building. Other valuable skills include organization, writing, creativity, attention to detail, leadership, presentation abilities, time management, multitasking, and mentoring. These competencies will help professionals navigate the evolving environmental sector and contribute effectively to their organizations.