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Natural Resources

The natural resources program offers an associate in applied science-transfer degree (AAS-T). The AAS-T degree is built upon the technical courses required for job preparation but also includes a college general education component, common in structure for all such degrees. The distinguishing characteristics of the AAS-T is a minimum of 20 credits of general education courses drawn from the same list as those taken by students completing the Direct Transfer Agreement (DTA). AAS-T courses are designed for the dual purpose of immediate employment and as preparation for the junior year in a bachelor degree commonly described as the bachelor of applied science (BSA).

Graduates of this pathway will be able to choose between advanced studies in a four-year natural resources program and a broad range of technical natural resources careers, including seasonal and full-time positions in which they collect natural resources field information. In professional and personal functions, graduates will be able to draw on a basic understanding of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, safe and accurate measurement techniques, and the social context of natural resources management. Most programs courses transfer to four-year institutions to create opportunities for educational and career advancement beyond the technical level in natural resources fields. The program was developed collaboratively with local natural resource agencies and organizations.

Core program courses may have prerequisite requirements. English and mathematics courses require qualifying assessment scores or acceptable preparatory coursework in these subjects. See course descriptions for details. A "C" grade (2.0) or better is expected in the natural resource program courses to be successful in a career in natural resources. Students interested in transferring for a university degree in natural resources should work closely with the program adviser on course selection and sequencing.

Michael Lesky
Natural Resources Faculty
E-mail: mlesky@wvc.edu
Phone: 509.682.6625
Office: Batjer Hall 8041A