Resource and Environmental Law

Diploma

Program Overview

From forestry to tourism, from First Nations to park users—we all enjoy Saskatchewan’s natural resources. There are laws and environmental policies in place to ensure the long-term sustainability of our fisheries, forests and wildlife.

If you want to play an active role in ensuring these laws are respected, Resource and Environmental Law will appeal to you. It’s a career that demands a strong belief in what you’re doing, a good understanding of human behaviour and excellent communication skills.

Resource and Environmental Law is a two-year diploma program that specializes in conservation and environmental law enforcement. You’ll develop solid skills in environmental protection, enforcement and investigation. You’ll learn about:

  • Indigenous resource rights
  • Canadian criminal justice system
  • control tactics
  • courtroom procedures
  • environmental and field investigations
  • environmental legislation and compliance
  • environmental sampling
  • investigative techniques
  • park services and enforcement
  • wildlife and fisheries management

Hands-on learning is key. You’ll augment classroom learning with lab exercises, simulated field investigations, outdoor camps and work experience. You’ll work with trainers from different government agencies, participate in ride-alongs and more.

Get Your Feet Wet and Hands Dirty

Field camps are a popular part of Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Natural Resources programs. We have our own outdoor camp on the north side of Candle Lake. You’ll spend three weeks here in the fall learning a variety of skills. You’ll return for winter camp to learn about working in arduous outdoor conditions. Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s excellent camp facilities give you first-hand experience working in the outdoors, from learning how to pull boats over for compliance checks in the summer to ice rescue in the winter.

Are You Up for the Challenge?

Because jobs in environmental law enforcement can be physically demanding, we put Resource and Environmental Law students through the same fitness test as new RCMP recruits.

Diploma to Degree

Turn your diploma into degree. Resource and Environmental Law grads can transfer into the third year of the Bachelor of Arts Resource and Environmental Studies (BARES) program at the University of Regina/First Nations University of Canada or the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (major in Renewable Resource Management) at the University of Saskatchewan.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

Resource and Environmental Law graduates can choose from a variety of career options. Work in the field as a conservation officer; environmental protection officer; park warden; or fishery, forestry or wildlife officer. Potential employers include environmental agencies, federal and provincial parks, natural resource companies, First Nation communities, even border services or law enforcement agencies.

Potential Careers

Sample Job TitleNOC Classification1Earning Potential2
Enforcement OfficerForestry Technologists and Technicians (2223)$40,600 - $97,500
Conservation OfficerConservation and Fishery Officers (2224)$51,500 - $125,400
Environmental TechnicianCivil Engineering Technologists and Technicians (2231)$39,600 - $96,000

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s):

Fall


Length: 70 weeks

Locations

  • Prince Albert

Admissions

Admission Requirements

  • Grade 12 with a combined minimum 65% average in English Language Arts A30 and English Language Arts B30 (combined), and a minimum of 60% in Workplace and Apprenticeship Math 30 or 60% in Foundations of Math 30 or 60% in Pre-Calculus 30*
  • A clear Criminal Record Check
  • English Language Requirement

 

*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:

  • minimum combined average of 60% in Math A30 and Math B30

 

Notes:

  • It is recommended that students entering the program have basic skills in Microsoft Word© and Excel©.
  • For employment purposes, graduates may be required to obtain First Aid certification. Students will be offered the First Aid course FAID 1001 at the beginning of their program.
  • For employment purposes, graduates may be required to perform the Physical Abilities Requirement Evaluation (PARE).

Alternative Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through an alternative admission assessment. Applicants are automatically considered for alternative admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met.



ACCUPLACER©

Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Alternative Admission using Accuplacer.

  • 250 Arithmetic
  • 254 Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics
  • 253 Reading
  • 247 Writing

Post-secondary

Some programs allow applicants to meet the admission grade level requirement using 15 approved post-secondary credits. Review additional information.

If the program applied to has specific course requirements, they may be met through alternative post-secondary courses. Review already approved courses that may be used for admission purposes for your programs.

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake. 

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year. 

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as approximate cost for books and supplies. Visit the Tuition and Fees web page for a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program.

 

2022/23 Academic Year

Year 1 - $9,365
Year 2 - $9,805

International Students

View tuition rates for international students.

Semester 1

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
COM 106
Technical Report Writing
2
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You will be introduced to scientific research and accessing and incorporating scientific literature. These elements are combined in a research project that will provide you with the opportunity to assemble, synthesize and report your research findings in a technical report format.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
ENVR 101
Environmental Science and Technology 1
2
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You will examine the natural world scientifically in an attempt to explain how life on earth is sustained. You will review human population development with its increasing resource requirements. You will study sustainable resource management applied to urban and natural environments including associated risks of hazardous materials. You will take a global perspective using objective risk analysis and environmental ethics.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): ENVR 440
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
FORE 102
Introduction to Forestry
2
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You will describe forest practices that are common in Saskatchewan. You will describe forest harvesting methods as well as harvest and transportation systems. You will be introduced to the forest regions of Canada while discussing various silviculture practices.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
FTNS 100
Fitness 1
2
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You will examine various aspects of personal wellness with an emphasis on physical fitness. You will participate in a fitness routine that will prepare you to meet the physical demands to work in a law enforcement environment.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GPS 110
Basics of Global Positioning Systems (GPS)
4
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You will be introduced to Global Positioning Systems (GPS) for resource managers. You will gain hands-on experience navigating using handheld GPS receivers. Your studies will include entering GPS data into various Geographic Information Systems (GIS) file formats. Using handheld and survey-grade receivers, you will practice advanced data collection techniques.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
MAPS 101
Introduction to Mapping and Compassing
2
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Your studies will focus on mapping systems and compassing. You will interpret maps and develop skills in ground and map measurements. You will learn the basics of internet mapping software.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): MAPS 340
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
RLAW 104
Introduction to Resource Legislation
3
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You will describe the creation and construction of legislation, the Summary Offences Procedures Act and the provincial and federal resource protection statutes and regulations. As well, you will be provided an overview of the specific legislation, regulations and policies affecting forestry and natural resources management in Saskatchewan which will help you recognize the principles and theories of resource management and law enforcement.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RSRC 101
Elements of Ecology
1
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You will cover the spatial and temporal variation of life. You will explore the factors that influence the distribution of life and the competitive forces that restrict or enhance population growth. You will receive a summary evaluation of human's role in ecosystems.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): RSRC 340
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
RSRC 103
Forest Ecosystems
4
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You will be introduced to geological processes and physiography that define the landscape and soils of Saskatchewan. You will study Saskatchewan ecosystems and the relationship of soils, landforms, vegetation and land use. The course includes dendrology, students identify and describe tree and shrub species native to Saskatchewan regions. The course examines forest ecosites and tree growth performance.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
WILD 101
Ecology, Biology and Management of Saskatchewan Wildlife
2
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You will examine how wildlife populations relate to their environments. You will learn the life history and biology of Saskatchewan wildlife. Students will examine at-risk species in Saskatchewan and review environmental laws governing at-risk species. You will learn wildlife management challenges, strategies and goals for Saskatchewan wildlife populations.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
WORK 126
Work Preparation
2
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You will develop skills that allow you to successfully compete for jobs in the field of resources, as well as other related careers.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
Total semester credits: 26

Semester 2

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
CAMP 102
Winter Camp
1
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You will participate in a winter camp and apply the principles of snowmobile safety, winter emergency survival techniques and ice-rescue techniques. You will increase your competency for working under arduous conditions while exploring winter ecology in a boreal setting.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
CAMP 305
Winter Aquatic Surveys
1
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You will participate in a winter camp and apply the principles of winter water quality and under-ice fish netting techniques. You will increase your competency for working under arduous conditions while exploring winter ecology in a boreal setting.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
FISH 301
Aquatic Ecology
3
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You will learn about freshwater aquatic ecology. You will safely sample and interpret water quality of nearby waterbodies. You will become familiar with fish anatomy and learn how to identify fish species and aquatic invertebrates inhabiting Saskatchewan waters.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CAMP 305(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
FTNS 101
Fitness 2
2
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You will continue to participate in physical fitness training activities with an emphasis on high intensity interval training. You will practice and participate in the Physical Abilities Requirement Evaluation (PARE) in order to compete for seasonal positions in conservation law enforcement.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RLAW 105
Indigenous Resource Rights
3
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You will describe the treaties, Natural Resources Transfer Agreement, Constitution Act 1982 and case law with respect to the special rights of Indigenous people to the resources.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RLAW 107
Park Enforcement
2
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You will receive an introduction to park enforcement legislation and procedures. You will also learn radio communication procedures.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): RLAW 104
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RLAW 108
Canadian Criminal Justice 1
2
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You will identify the fundamental principles of the Canadian judicial system. You will examine the Constitution Act, 1982, including the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and the related jurisprudence. You will interpret the Criminal Code as it applies to a variety of offences and law enforcement procedures. You will describe the structure of the criminal court system in Canada.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): RLAW 104
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RLAW 109
Canadian Criminal Justice 2
3
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You will examine the history and evolution of law enforcement in Canada with specific reference to the role of law enforcement in resource and environmental management. You will assess current trends in community-based policing and restorative justice. You will identify principles involving pleas, verdicts and sentencing options in Canada.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): RLAW 104
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
SFTY 106
Wilderness Survival
1
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You will learn the basic survival techniques involving clothing, shelter building, fire, signaling and collecting food and water. You will also learn how to deal with wildlife during dangerous encounters.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
SFTY 300
Firearm Safety
3
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You will study the Government of Canada course developed to meet the mandatory requirements for the acquisition of firearms set out in the Criminal Code of Canada. You will also study the provincial Saskatchewan Association for Firearm Education (SAFE) Hunter Education course developed to meet the mandatory requirements set out in The Wildlife Act, 1998 for hunters. You will acquire the knowledge and skills to demonstrate basic firearms safety practices, ammunition, parts of firearms, firing techniques and procedures as well as safe storage, display, transportation and handling.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
WILD 301
Wildlife Anatomy and Systematics
4
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You will compare the internal and external anatomical features of amphibians, birds and mammals as well as describe necropsy procedures. You will learn how to identify the members of these vertebrate classes that occur in Saskatchewan.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
Total semester credits: 25

Semester 3

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
WORK 402
Work Experience
0
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You will participate in and report on a minimum six-week work experience in the field of resource and/or environmental law enforcement. The work experience provides you with an opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge you learned in the classroom.
Credit Units: 0
Course Hours: 180.0
Equivalent Course(s): WORK 440
Potential Learning Method(s): Online, Work Experience -Individual

Semester 4

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
CAMP 402
Natural Resources Field Techniques
3
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You will immerse yourself in wildlife management field techniques. You will work through a variety of scenarios to develop tools and techniques for dealing with wildlife. You will develop field skills suitable for resource officers including how to manage public relations when working with problem wildlife.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
CAMP 413
Resource and Environmental Law Field Techniques
2
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You will immerse yourself in boreal field management and resource enforcement techniques. You will demonstrate boating enforcement and trailer towing and unloading techniques. You will also collect evidence, conduct field compliance inspections and enforcement procedures for different game harvesting methods.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
CLTR 119
Indigenous Cultural Awareness
2
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You will gain an understanding of the diversity and richness of First Nations and Métis cultures, histories and current issues.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): NAST 100
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GIS 101
Geographic Information Systems 1
2
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You will achieve a basic understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) concepts and principles. You will learn how to display spatial data, work with tables and create a map layout using GIS software.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): GIS 350, GIS 440
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
RLAW 201
Responsibilities and Authorities
2
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You will learn the legal authorities and limitations of peace officers. You will also learn the responsibilities, obligations and duties of peace officers.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): RLAW 104, RLAW 108, RLAW 109
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RLAW 202
Field Investigations 1
3
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You will describe the reasons and common methods of poaching and an officer's means of detection. You will gain practical experience completing enforcement documents.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): RLAW 104, RLAW 108, RLAW 109
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RLAW 203
Field Investigations 2
2
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You will learn procedures and tactics for conducting patrols, surveillance, high-risk, and unknown risk takedowns. Your studies will include tactical and communication techniques and preliminary investigation into possible illegal resource harvesting and or violations.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): RLAW 104, RLAW 108, RLAW 109
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RLAW 204
Gathering Evidence 1
2
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You will gain an understanding of the principles surrounding the continuity of evidence. You will describe proper evidence collection procedures. You will become familiar with using forensic analysis on firearms, tools, blood, hair and fibre. You will also learn procedures for conducting interviews, interrogations and property searches.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): GIS 101, RLAW 104, RLAW 108, RLAW 109
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RLAW 205
Gathering Evidence 2
3
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You will expand your understanding of the principles surrounding the continuity of evidence. You will apply proper evidence collection techniques and laboratory submission procedures in simulated investigations. Your investigation will include interviews, the preparation and execution of search warrants, and the georeferencing of the evidence using GIS technology.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GIS 101, RLAW 104, RLAW 108, RLAW 109
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
WILD 411
Wildlife Mgmt Field Techniques
4
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You will demonstrate the fundamental field skills in wildlife damage prevention, data and sample collection, and age/sex determination. You will also demonstrate the ethical capture and handling of wildlife.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
Total semester credits: 25

Semester 5

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
ENVR 401
Environmental Science and Technology 2
3
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You will study pollution prevention and mitigation technology. You will also develop environmental management strategies for agriculture, oilfield, mining and pulp and paper operations.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): ENVR 441
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
ENVR 402
Environmental Sampling
4
Show course details
You will perform environmental compliance and inspection-related sampling activities. You will develop the skills needed for collecting legal samples of soil, sediments, air and liquids. You will include safety measures with the sampling activities.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Equivalent Course(s): ENVR 442
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
FISH 404
Fisheries Management
3
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You will be introduced to legislation and fisheries management principles as they apply to protecting fish habitat and fisheries resource utilization. You will become familiar with fish parasites and disease, the steps involved in conducting fish kill investigations, aquatic invasive species, and enforcement.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): FISH 446
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
FTNS 200
Fitness 3
1
Show course details
You will continue to follow a fitness routine meet the physical demands to work in a law enforcement environment. You will prepare and participate in a personalized fitness plan which includes cardio, strength and flexibility training.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
PR 401
Professionalism and Ethics in Law Enforcement
2
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You will study essential principles of a professional code of conduct and the importance of developing and maintaining solid ethics.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): PR 441
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RLAW 200
Defense Tactics and Fitness
3
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Your studies will focus on the principles of dealing with hostility and managing aggressive behaviour. You will learn defensive control tactics.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): RLAW 104, RLAW 108, RLAW 109
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RLAW 206
Courtroom Procedures 1
2
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You will be introduced to the civil and criminal courtroom procedures of Canada. Your studies will examine the hierarchy of federal and provincial court structures and administrative procedures for the execution of law and justice. You will learn how to be professional in enforcement duties and courtroom procedures.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): RLAW 104, RLAW 108, RLAW 109, RLAW 205
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RLAW 207
Courtroom Procedures 2
3
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You will continue your studies on procedures for preparing and presenting evidence in court. You will identify the principles of burden of proof, the role of a witness and enforcement agencies and their functions. You will develop court briefs to be used in mock court scenarios. You will learn how to be competent in enforcement procedures and be able to effectively present yourself as an officer during court proceedings.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): RLAW 104, RLAW 108, RLAW 109, RLAW 205
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RLAW 403
Environmental Legislation and Compliance
3
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You will describe provincial and federal legislation, and international treaty and its application to specific environmental issues. You will learn how to prepare and perform regulatory site inspections. You will apply compliance measures and documents. Environmental forensics and investigation will be introduced.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): RLAW 104
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RLAW 406
Environmental Investigation
2
Show course details
You will utilize skills obtained in investigation, evidence collection, interviewing witnesses and accused, search and seizure to conduct and document an environmental investigation. You will demonstrate the use of proper safety equipment and collection techniques to investigate a hazardous site.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
Total semester credits: 26

Get Credit for What You Know

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

See link(s) below to get more information about PLAR.


Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit to Sask Polytech or to another college or university.


Transfer credit options vary over time; this information is subject to change. Transfer credit options for this program include:

Royal Roads University agrees to facilitate full block transfer of student(s) from SaskPolytech with appropriate prerequisite qualifications into BS Environmental Practice, and BA Environmetal Practice.
Graduates having completed a maximum of 60 credit hours from the Resource and Environmental Law diploma program at Sask Polytech with a minimum GPA of 60% may be admitted into the Bachelor of Arts in Resource and Environmental Studies at the University of Regina and First Nations University of Canada.
Sask Polytech graduates after April 2019 onward with 2.33 GPA (C+) may be eligible for block transfer into Bachelor of Natural Resource Protection (BNRP) Degree program. Accepted Sask Polytech REL graduates must complete the 60 credits of course requirements for a BNRP degree.

Student Awards

Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives away more than $2 million in student awards during the academic year.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers student awards for every certificate and diploma program at every campus. Not all student awards are based on marks - some are based on financial need or things like community or volunteer involvement.

More about scholarships

Accreditation

Eco Canada

Students graduate with recognition as Environmental Professional in-Training (EP-t). First year of seven year accreditation.

Additional Information

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