CIP: 15.0901
Program Code: 711-01
Length: Two-year Program - Four-semesters
Minimum Credits: 69

Purpose: 

The Associate of Applied Science in Environmental Management & Recreational Ecology prepares students to work in various types of forestry, parks, recreation, trail system, and other ecology-related technical jobs. The courses provide the student with the skills they need to be successful working in conservation, environmental management, trail systems, an outfitter, adventure camp, national, state or local parks, state foresty, division of natural resources, or other recreational and /or ecology venue. Skills are developed to understand basic foresty and ecology concepts, to protect and preserve natural resources to reduce the impact of activities and utilization, to effectively conduct outdoor activities and events, provide an educational interpretation of nature and the environment, fundamental knowledge of fish, wildlife, and forestry management, customer services, entrepreneurship, program planning, risk management, leadership, supervisor, and to minimize the impact of the potential risk to the environment and diverse Appalachian ecosystem.

Occupational Objectives:

Admissions 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 to 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, customer service, entrepreneurship, leadership, and problem-solving to maximize health and safety and minimize environmental impact leading participants to a 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, they can earn the Associate of Applied Science degree in Environmental Management and 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.