Wildlife Conservation Technology banner image Wildlife Conservation Technology banner image Wildlife Conservation Technology banner image

Wildlife Conservation Technology


Start Date: September


Location: Prince of Wales Campus


Length: 2 Years


Credential: DIPLOMA, WILDLIFE CONSERVATION TECHNICIAN


Program Availability: Fall 2024 Term

Canadian Applicants: Waiting list

International Applicants with a Valid Study Permit: Waiting list

Other International Applicants: Closed


A smiling student poses with a newly banded birdWildlife Conservation Technology combines the great outdoors with classroom learning. You will learn about plant and animal ecology, environmental chemistry, map use and analysis, canoe safety, advanced wilderness and remote first aid, and wildlife management.

You will spend many hours in field camps, where you will conduct habitat and night animal surveys, tour parks and wildlife rehabilitation centres, learn about wildlife and human interaction, and much more. You will use your new skills during 160 hours of on-the-job training.

You will take part in songbird banding every year, contributing to the songbird population and migration research on a regional and global scale.

You may also combine this program with the Conservation Enforcement program to become a conservation enforcement officer or use it as a stepping-stone to your Bachelor in Wildlife Conservation degree from UPEI.

Professional Accreditations and Recognition

The Wildlife Conservation Technology program is accredited by the North American Wildlife Technology Association. All students graduating from this program will receive North America-wide recognition as a Wildlife Technician and will receive a certificate from the accrediting body upon graduation.

Study at our Prince of Wales Campus

This program is located in Charlottetown at our Prince of Wales Campus. Take a virtual tour of the buildings where your classrooms and labs are located.

Centre for Applied Science & Technology
Charlottetown Centre

DEGREE PATHWAYS


This program has degree pathways, giving you the opportunity to receive credit for your Holland College diploma when you continue your education. For a complete list of agreements, visit the Degree Pathways page.

Partner Institution Credential Details of Agreement
Lakeland College, Vermilion, Alberta Bachelor of Applied Science in Environmental Management Graduates will enter Year 3 of a Bachelor of Applied Science in Environmental Management.
Royal Roads University, Victoria, B.C. Bachelor of Science Graduates receive two years of credit toward a Bachelor of Science degree, with three additional university level courses: chemistry, math (linear algebra or calculus), and English.
University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, P.E.I. Bachelor of Wildlife Conservation Graduates receive two years of credit toward a Bachelor of Wildlife Conservation degree.
University of New Brunswick - Fredericton, Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Natural Resources Graduates receive up to 63 credits toward a Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Natural Resources.
University of New Brunswick - Saint John, Saint John, N.B. Bachelor of Applied Management Graduates with a 70% average receive two years of credit toward a Bachelor of Applied Management degree.
  • Grade 12 or equivalent with credits at or above the general level
  • Grade 11 or 12 academic English, minimum of 65%
  • Grade 11 or 12 academic math, minimum of 65%
  • Grade 11 or 12 academic biology, minimum of 65%
  • Résumé including work and volunteer experience with applicable dates, membership in groups, associations or athletics, awards and distinctions, and any other information about yourself relevant to the program

NOTES:

  • Program Requirement - Rabies and Tetanus vaccines are required as part of the program and will be scheduled with the Holland College Nurse Practitioner after the program start. If you remain on the Holland College Health Plan, up to 80% of the cost is covered. You will require your Provincial health card and vaccination record for these appointments. If a student does not remain on the Holland College health plan it’s the student's responsibility to determine what coverage they have for the immunizations.
  • Students of the Wildlife Conservation Technology program must be in good physical condition with the ability to participate in strenuous physical activities. Physical requirements of the program include carrying heavy equipment, hiking long distances over uneven terrain, sleeping in tents in remote areas, and working outside in adverse weather conditions.
  • Don’t have the courses you need to get into this program? Upgrade, earn high school credits, or get your GED in Adult Ed. It’s free!
  • If your first language is not English please review our English Language Requirements page.

2023/2024 Academic Year

Tuition and fees are listed in Canadian dollars. International tuition includes the International Student Fee.

1st Year

Canadian

International

Tuition $5,334 $10,434
Fees $2,207 $2,957
Other Costs $790 $790
Total $8,331 $14,181

2nd Year 

Canadian

International

Tuition $4,558 $9,558
Fees $1,652 $2,402
Other Costs $705 $705
Total $6,915 $12,665
/

Canadian Cost Breakdown

Tuition & Fees

1st Year

2nd Year

Tuition $5,334 $4,558
Lab Fee $530 $485
Student Union $172 $172
Health Insurance Fee $445 $445
First Aid/WHIMIS $20 -
Additional Course $960 $370
Fitness Centre Fee $80 $80
Graduation Fee - $100
     Total payable to Holland College $7,541 $6,210
     
1st installment due first day of first semester $3,741 $4,092
2nd installment due first day of second semester $3,800 $2,118
     

Other Costs
Please note: the cost of books, materials, and supplies are included here for your information only, this amount is not payable to the college. Do not include this amount in your tuition payment.

1st Year

2nd Year

Books $705 $620
Materials / Supplies $85 $85
     Total $790 $705
     
Grand Total $8,331 $6,915

International Cost Breakdown

Tuition & Fees

1st Year

2nd Year

Tuition* $10,434 $9,558
Lab Fee $530 $485
Student Union $172 $172
International Health Fee $1,195 $1,195
WHMIS $20 -
Addtional Course $960 $370
Fitness Centre Fee $80 $80
Graduation Fee - $100
     Total payable to Holland College $13,391 $11,960
     
1st installment due first day of first semester $9,591 $9,842
2nd installment due first day of second semester $3,800 $2,118
     

Other Costs
Please note: the cost of books, materials, and supplies are included here for your information only, this amount is not payable to the college. Do not include this amount in your tuition payment.

1st Year

2nd Year

Books $705 $620
Materials/Supplies $85 $85
     Total $790 $705
     
Grand Total $14,181 $12,665

*Includes the International Student Fee.

  • Parks Canada
  • Canadian Wildlife Service
  • Fisheries and Oceans Canada
  • Provincial fish and wildlife agencies
  • Natural resource agencies
  • Private sector, including industry and consultants

Please note: some occupations in this field require a Criminal Record Check.

DEGREE PATHWAYS

Many Holland College programs have degree pathway agreements with other post-secondary institutions. You can receive credit for your Holland College diploma toward a university degree or other post-graduate credential, saving you time and money! Find out more on the Degree Pathways page.

Course Code

Course Name & Description

Credit Values


Course Code:SAFE-1005

PEI Occupational Health and Safety

An overview of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of Prince Edward Island. Students examine the legislation, how PEI employees are protected while on the job and the responsibilities of employees and employers.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:BIOL-1200

Ecology

A foundational course in ecology. Students study animal behaviour, habitats and niches, life histories, and conservation. Also, students explore the relationships among various organisms in ecosystems.

Credit Value:4


Course Code:BIOL-1201

Animal Ecology

An examination of the parameters of population structure, identification of mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles, and basic genetics. Also, students learn to make field identifications, conduct animal population surveys and assessments.

Credit Value:6


Course Code:BIOL-1205

Plant Ecology I

A survey course of common plants of the local plant communities including bog, dune, forest, roadsides and fields, ponds and saltmarshes. Students experience hands-on plant collection, identification and habitat assessment instruction in a variety of local habitats. Students prepare archival quality plant specimens and present them in the form of a plant collection.

Credit Value:4


Course Code:BIOL-1206

Plant Ecology II

Building on the skills and knowledge gained in Plant Ecology I students learn plant adaptations, plant families, plant anatomy, diseases and winter identification of plants.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:BIOL-1220

Limnology

A fundamental study of the ecology of freshwater rivers, streams and lakes. Subjects covered are watersheds, streams, lakes, lake types and water quality.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:BIOL-2200

Invertebrate Zoology

An introduction to the study of zoology and a survey of invertebrates with a focus on field and lab identification of invertebrates commonly encountered by wildlife technicians. This course includes the use and care of microscopes, and the collection and preservation of specimens.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:BIOL-2201

Vertebrate Zoology

A survey of vertebrates with a focus on their importance from a management perspective. Included in this course are specimen preparation, preservation and vertebrate anatomy and dissection.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:CHEM-2000

Environmental Chemistry

Exploration of basic chemistry and chemical processes as they apply to nutrient cycling, soils, climate change, long range transport of atmospheric pollutants, waste management/nutrient enrichment, heavy metals in the environment, toxic organic chemicals/pesticides, and water pollution and purification. Knowledge gained will be applied to aspects of environmental monitoring.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:COMM-1110

Communications in the Applied Sciences

The vital role that communication plays in the science field will be emphasized in this course. The importance of accurate recording of laboratory and field activities as well as the ability to communicate findings to both the scientific and general communities will be stressed.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:COMP-1000

Computer Essentials

Students learn productivity software and explore digital environments with practical applications for various workplaces and educational institutions. The main areas of focus include word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, email and other electronic communication tools, various digital environments, and industry-specific applications.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:GEOG-1000

Map Use and Analysis

Use and practice mapping and navigation skills in the field. Students gather and translate data, prepare maps, and experience how a Global Positioning System (GPS) and Global Information System (GIS) are applied in occupational fields.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:MATH-1200

Natural Science Math

This course in mathematics for applied science programs begins with an intensive overview of measurement, emphasizing both metric and imperial units, conversion of simple and derived units, proper treatment of significant digits, and techniques for handling measurement error. Following a review of algebra and Euclidean geometry (including many scientific calculator functions), the course will continue to apply mathematical skills to solve systems of two and three linear equations by means of graphic, algebraic, and determinant methods; derive and graph functions; and utilize factoring techniques to solve fractional and quadratic equations. The course will utilize trigonometric and vector analysis to solve practical problems involving angles in any quadrant, as well as right and oblique triangles. Finally, the relationship between exponents and radicals, and the relationship between exponential and logarithmic functions will be applied to biotic systems.

Credit Value:4


Course Code:MATH-1300

Statistics

Exploration of the essentials of statistical collection, analysis, and interpretation. Topics covered include the principles of statistical design, frequency distributions, descriptive statistics, measures of central tendency and dispersion, basic probability, standard normal distributions, linear regression and correlation, and a variety of statistical tests for goodness of fit, differences between means, and identification of outliers. Emphasis will be placed on the use of statistical software for data analysis.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:NCPR-1002

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems

Students complete Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) training and certification.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-1100

ATV Safety

Students will be trained and certified in safe ATV riding practices.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-1101

Silviculture Worker Lesson Plan

While dealing with the tools of the forestry trade, particularly chainsaw safety and the physical well being of the worker, the Lesson Plan also covers the mental well being of the worker by covering such areas as harassment and employee rights. The plan begins with intensive classroom instruction and is followed with practical one-on-one, hands-on instruction in the woodlot.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-1102

Pleasure Craft Operator

Students receive training and certification in safe boating practices,rules and regulations and will know what they mean and how to apply them in real life situations. Also they will understand and use charts, aids to navigation, and know how to communicate effectively with other pleasure craft operators. They will be prepared for and know how to avoid dangerous situations and how to protect our environment.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-1103

Advanced Wilderness and Remote First Aid

Students receive training and certification in Advanced Wilderness and Remote First Aid, ideal for those participating in wilderness or remote activities within hours or days of advanced medical care. This course will enable participants to have an appreciation for the realities of providing First Aid in a wilderness and remote environment. Emphasis will be on practical skills, decision making, and management of the outdoor environment. Basic First Aid and CPR are included.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-1104

Canoe Safety

Students are trained and certified in aspects of operating a canoe safely.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-1105

Canadian Firearms Safety Course

Students are trained and certified in firearms safety: the evolution of firearms, major parts, types and actions; basic firearms safety practices; ammunition; operating firearm actions; safe handling and carry procedures; firing techniques and procedures; care of non-restricted firearms; responsibilities of the firearms owner/user; and safe storage, display, transportation and handling of non-restricted firearms.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-1107

Canadian Aquatic Biomonitoring Network (cabin) Field Assistant Training

The objective of the CABIN Training Program is to provide participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct nationally standardized freshwater benthic macroinvertebrate monitoring and assessments. Upon completion of this program, participants will be certified to assist CABIN Field Technicians/Program Managers in CABIN protocols.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-2100

Forest Fire Suppression

Students are trained and certified in basic forest fire suppression techniques.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-2101

Hunter Education

Students are trained and certified in aspects of hunting safety. This includes an online portion and a field day.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-2102

Backpack Electrofishing

Students are trained and certified in backpack electrofishing. The training includes online study and on-site practical training. Topics include: what is electrofishing; why electrofish; wlectrofishing theory; impacts of electrofishing; electrofishing safety guidelines; field procedures and techniques; and recommended standard operating procedures.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-2104

Trapper Education

Students are trained and certified in safe trapping practices.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:PRAC-2045

Wildlife Conservation Technology OJT

On-the-job training provides the student with an opportunity to relate what they have learned in the Wildlife Conservation Technology program to a relevant work environment. Students assume, with appropriate supervision, the duties and responsibilities normally expected of an entry-level person in a similar position. Using their own observations and initiative, students are expected to acquire and apply new skills as may be expected of a new employee in their respective workplace setting.

Credit Value:4


Course Code:WCTN-1100

Field Camp I

Students experience camp life combined with field surveys, tours of parks and wildlife rehabilitation centers, evening and night animal surveys, Global Positioning Systems use, and habitat surveys. Students learn the skills necessary for bonding, living together, team building, work load balancing, survival, camping procedures, maintenance and use of camping equipment, and wildlife/human interaction.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:WCTN-1110

Field Camp II

Building on skills and knowledge of camp life combined with wildlife observations, taking particular note of seasonal differences and evening and night animal surveys. Students learn the skills necessary for bonding, living together, team building, work load balancing, survival, camping procedures, maintenance and use of camping equipment, and wildlife/human interaction.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:WCTN-2005

Natural Resources Policy and Law

An overview of the policies and legislation at the municipal, provincial and federal levels, governing natural resources: fish, wildlife, land and forestry. Students examine jurisdiction, authority, and power, the making of policies and laws, as well as, specific pieces of legislation in Prince Edward Island and Canada.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:WCTN-2010

Wildlife Management I

Students study many aspects of wildlife management. Subject areas to be examined include the capture and tracking of wildlife, assessment of wildlife habitat, and the evolution of wildlife conservation.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:WCTN-2011

Wildlife Management II

A comprehensive course on wildlife management issues and practices. Subject areas include: wildlife population survey techniques, socioeconomic surveys, consumptive and non-consumptive uses of wildlife, and habitat use by wildlife. Students assess an assigned area of habitat and create a comprehensive habitat management plan for the area.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:WCTN-2020

Fisheries

Students learn fish identification techniques, harvesting methods, population assessment, marine mammal and saltwater fish species, and habitat management. In addition, students collect and preserve specimens, conduct surveys, and determine age for various species.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:WCTN-2030

Forestry

A comprehensive review of the forest industry and forest management. Subject areas examined include: commercial forestry, forestry for wildlife and recreational values, forest pests and diseases, forest harvesting and regeneration, silviculture and holistic forest use. Additionally, students learn about fire as a management tool, fire ecology and forest cruising techniques.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:WCTN-2100

Field Camp III

This course builds on skills developed during previous field camps. Students experience camp life combined with field surveys, evening and night animal surveys, Global Positioning Systems use, radiotelemetry, immobilization, and habitat surveys. Students will learn the skills necessary for bonding, living together, team building, work load balancing, survival, camping procedures, maintenance and use of camping equipment, and wildlife/human interaction.

Credit Value:2


Wildlife Conservation Technology background image Wildlife Conservation Technology background image Wildlife Conservation Technology background image

The program exceeded all my expectations! What I loved the most about it was all our outdoor practices and hands-on activities such as bird banding, habitat assessments, and field trips around PEI.

During the program, I completed several certifications like Chainsaw Training, Advanced Wilderness First Aid, and Field Assistant on Aquatic Biomonitoring. These courses are important for future employment opportunities, but are also great experiences.

Carolina, Class of 2021

Related
Programs


Bioscience Technology

Earn a Bioscience Technologist Diploma in 2 years at Holland College. This is the only program of its kind in the region. Study microbiology, immunology, molecular biology and genetics and put your laboratory and research skills to work in Prince Edward Island's growing Bioscience industry.

Environmental Applied Science Technology

The 2-year Environmental Applied Science Technology program teaches you scientific theory, data collection, research, and site analysis to give you the skills you need for a career monitoring environmental health.

Conservation Enforcement

The 18-week Conservation Enforcement program at the Atlantic Police Academy is specifically designed to provide law-enforcement training to wildlife and forestry technicians. The program prepares students to work for natural resource agencies and in other related fields across Canada.

Additional
Resources