CIP: 3.0101
Degree: Career Studies Certificate 
Program Code: 221-328-04
Program Length: 1 Year (2 Semesters)
Minimum Credits: 29

Program Advisor:

James Dye
276.964.7278

Purpose: 
The Career Studies Certificate in Recreational Ecology prepares students to work in various types of forestry, parks, trail systems, and other ecology-related technical jobs. The courses provide the student with the skills they need to be successful working for a trail system, an outfitter, adventure camp, national, state, or local Parks, state forestry, division of natural resources, or other recreational venue. Skills are developed to understand basic forestry and ecology concepts, to protect and preserve natural resources reduce the impact of activities and utilization, to effectively conduct outdoor activities and events, provide educational interpretation of nature and the environment, and fundamental knowledge of fish, wildlife, and forestry management, and to minimize the impact of potential risk to the environment and diverse Appalachian ecosystem. 

Occupational Objectives: 

Admission Requirements:
Students must meet the general admission requirements established by the College. 

Program Requirements: 
The program is designed to prepare students for forestry-related technical positions and provide leadership in outdoor projects and activities. Coursework will include the following: fundamental knowledge of fish, wildlife, ecology, and forestry management, forest mapping, adventure excursion planning, Leave No Trace best practices, protection and preservation of natural resources, basic principles of first aid and CPR in a remote setting, leadership, and problem-solving to maximize health and safety and minimize environmental impact leading participants to quality outdoor experience. The project-based experiential curriculum will involve extensive outings, field trips, and research projects to prepare students to work in one of the many forestry, recreational, and ecological venues in Southwest Virginia. Participants can earn Leave No Trace Trainer, First Aid/ CPR/ AED. Wilderness & Remote First Aid and Certified Interpretative Guide credentials in addition to the Career Studies Certificate in Recreational Ecology. Service-learning projects and internships/cooperative education will be utilized to explore and provide real-world experiences to understand the program and course learning objectives.