Courses
Semester 1
- Applied Mathematics in Natural Resource Sciences MATH0063
Units/ Hours: 45
This course will enable students to apply specific mathematical concepts and acquire foundation skills important in the Natural Resource and Environmental Sciences. It is designed to complement and reinforce learning within other first semester courses and program areas.
- College Communications for Environmental Science COMM0044
Units/ Hours: 37
This first semester course will introduce students to the essential communication skills required to be successful in their chosen post-secondary program. These skills include reading, writing, speaking, listening and critical thinking. Students, individually and in teams, will improve their overall communication skills through a series of written assignments, in-class discussions based on readings, and lab activities. Emphasis will also be place on developing research skills, with assignments integrated closely with other common first semester courses.
- Ecology and Environment ENVR0020
Units/ Hours: 60
Learn how nature works by studying the key components of the ecosystems in the Kawartha Lakes Region. Through field and lab exploration of wild life, landforms, forests, lakes, rivers and wetlands, students will see the connections between themselves, the environment and ecosystems that surround them.
- Ecosystem Skills ECOS0013
Units/ Hours: 60
This course will focus on three areas of study: identification, field and lab skills. Students will identify and classify the living and non-living components of the specific ecosystems described in the Ecology and Environment (ENVR 20) course. Field skills to be developed include the ability to navigate through the natural environment and use a variety of ecosystem inventory techniques. Special emphasis will be placed on safe work habits in lab and field.
- Geospatial Techniques GEOM0036
Units/ Hours: 45
This course is designed around the four pillars of Geomatics: Remote Sensing, Cartography, Surveying and GIS. Students will develop entry-level skills in data capture, surveying, (computer) drafting, principles of remote sensing, air photo interpretation, and in usage of representative Geomatics-related software.
- Environmental Leadership NATR0008
Units/ Hours: 45
This course will enable students to develop a personal position and direct their career path within the context of the environmental and natural resource industry. An integrated, community based learning approach will be used to identify and apply a personal understanding of leadership, sustainability and community in the context of natural resource sciences.
Semester 2
- Data Management for Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences COMP0461
Units/ Hours: 45
In this course, the student will use information technology tools to manipulate data from a variety of disciplines within the School of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences. This course will include data collection methods and strategies to effectively manage environmental and natural resource science data.
- Ecology: Concepts and Linkages ECOS0014
Units/ Hours: 45
Ecology: Concepts and Linkages introduces contemporary theory, ideology and practices of ecosystem management. Students use qualitative and quantitative methodology, historical context, and selected experiences to assemble ecological data and information into knowledge that functions to benefit ecosystems. The course integrates ecology, environmental and ecosystem health sciences to assist in the understanding and sequential application of ecosystem management practices.
- Forest Measurement FSTY0073
Units/ Hours: 45
This course deals with specific measurements and assessment methods for forests. The course involves laboratory sessions and field trips. Measurement of tree height, tree diameter, basal area, land area, and tree volume is studied. The Canadian Fire Weather Index system is introduced. Fixed area sampling, point sampling, tree marking, and fuel loading are field trip topics.
- Soil Studies I NATR0041
Units/ Hours: 21
The Common Lecture/Lab portion of the Soil Studies course provides an introduction to the physical and chemical properties of soils. Students develop skills in the identification and classification of soil, physical and index properties, textures, soil moisture, soil porosity, and other aspects of soil science using a variety of field and laboratory methods.
- Soil Studies II (Ecosystem Management/Forestry) NATR0083
Units/ Hours: 21
Soil Studies II course for the Ecosystem Management and Forestry Technician Programs continues with physical and chemical properties of soils and introduces the biological component required for the understanding of forest soils. The student will determine soil textures, pH; moisture regimes and drainage, identification of mineral and organic soil profiles: application of the Forest Ecosystem Classification methodology, and perform a soil/site description in the field. Throughout the course analytical skills will be developed that are typical of site evaluation and environmental studies.
- Technical Reporting COMM0034
Units/ Hours: 45
Successful communicators use knowledge, skills and strategies to create effective messages for a range of audiences and contexts. This course emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving to meet communication challenges in today?s workplace. Students will refine technical writing, communication skills and presentation techniques through a variety of assignments, assessments and hands-on practice.
- Trees and Shrubs Of Ontario FSTY0050
Units/ Hours: 45
This course deals with the identification of approximately 100 species of trees and shrubs of importance to those managing the forests resources of Ontario. Throughout the semester identification features for common trees and shrubs in both summer and winter condition are introduced and applied. A number of field trips are utilized to assist students with their identification skills. In the weekly lecture series topics such as tree growth, reproduction, photosynthesis, respiration, forest ecology and uses of trees will be introduced. At the completion of the course students will have a sound working knowledge of dendrology. The skills introduced in this semester may then be used in following semesters when working with Forest Ecosystem Classification, Restoration Ecology, Conservation Planning and other habitat management situations.
- Wildlife Observation Skills FIWI0041
Units/ Hours: 45
This course is an introduction to a range of skills in wildlife observation. A variety of wildlife species may be present in an environment despite not being seen. Important skills include visual and auditory identification of wildlife signs. The primary emphasis in this course will be on identification of wildlife signs such as tracks, trail patterns, scat, skulls, impacts on the environment, bird song and amphibian calls. When ever possible it is important to achieve visual observation and documentation of wildlife. Photography will be examined as a tool to document wildlife and their signs. Studies of wildlife observation technology will include an evaluation of binoculars and spotting scopes. Wildlife observation projects and groups will be reviewed including the Christmas Bird Count and breeding bird surveys. Lab instruction will be augmented with field trips to observe signs of local wildlife and when possible to document actual wildlife sightings.
- Aboriginal History and Culture GNED0049
Units/ Hours: 45
This course focuses on the study of First Nations peoples in the Americas (Turtle Island), from a First Nations perspective. Study will encompass the historical, cultural, and political realities of aboriginal America. This course will respect the oral traditions of First Nations peoples as much as possible.
Semester 3
- Aquatic Ecosystems ECOS0003
Units/ Hours: 60
Students taking this course will develop skills, knowledge, and attitude in the management of lake, river, wetland and marine ecosystems. They will apply current theories of ecosystem management to aquatic environments by studying abiotic, biotic, and cultural components at a variety of spatial and temporal scales.
- Introduction to Vector GIS GEOM0034
Units/ Hours: 45
This is an introductory level course in Vector GIS. Students will be exposed to various components of Vector GIS, including co-ordinate systems, map projections, data sources and data structures. Students will also learn how to produce maps in order to effectively communicate geographic information. Data collection techniques will be explored through the use of a GPS receiver.
- Natural Resources and the Law LAWS0056
Units/ Hours: 45
This course provides an introduction to laws that have an impact on the use of natural resources in Ontario. The course will deal with an overview of the legal system, the underlying principles of gaining compliance, and specific legislation that may be encountered in the natural resources field.
- Terrestrial Ecosystems ECOS0011
Units/ Hours: 45
Students taking this course will develop skills, knowledge, and attitude in management techniques for terrestrial ecosystems, including forest management planning on crown and private lands. They will apply current theories of ecosystem management to the terrestrial environment through study of abiotic, biotic, and cultural components. Completion of this course, along with Aquatic Ecosystems (ECOS 3), will prepare students for a wide range of employment opportunities in the field of ecosystem management.
- General Education Elective
Course Number: GENED
All graduates of diploma programs require general education credits. These courses allow you to explore issues of societal concern by looking at the history, theory and contemporary applications of those issues.
Your program has designated some required general education courses. In addition, you have the opportunity to choose from a list of electives each semester.
Many of these courses and some other general education courses are also available through evening classes, by distance education, or on-line. See our Part-Time Studies Calendar for these opportunities.
You may already possess general education equivalencies from other colleges or universities. Please see the General Education Co-ordinators at the Peterborough and Lindsay locations for possible exemptions.
See this page for a list of approved General Education Courses at Fleming College.
Semester 4
- Career Advancement Techniques NATR0011
Units/ Hours: 45
This course focuses on public speaking, and the production and use of visual materials. Videotaping will be used to evaluate presentation delivery and stage presence. Students will also develop skills in the chairing and minute taking of a meeting, as well as conducting and participating in an effective interview experience, and the development of a career portfolio.
- EM-Geomatics GEOM0016
Units/ Hours: 45
The course examines elementary principles of data acquisition, data management, and spatial analysis, using the raster data model. Laboratory exercises will allow students to become familiar with the operation of GIS software commonly used in the field. The students will be exposed to various hands-on projects/applications involving the use of GIS software.
- Ecosystem Monitoring and Assessment ECOS0007
Units/ Hours: 45
This course provides students with technical skills and knowledge related to monitoring and assessing ecosystem health and change in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. An emphasis will be placed on scientific methodology, report-writing skills, and experimental design principles. Students will also become familiar with the federal and provincial Environmental Assessment acts.
- Human Relations ORGB0010
Units/ Hours: 45
This course examines self-awareness, interpersonal relations, motivation, stress, small group dynamics, and organizational behaviour. Particular attention will be paid to leadership and conflict management in employment situations. Contemporary developments reshaping human relations will be introduced for study and discussion.
- Nuisance Species Management Techniques FIWI0023
Units/ Hours: 45
This course examines the life history, behaviour and habits of nuisance plant and animal species. Management techniques will include methodology, materials, equipment, and strategies used for repelling or removing nuisance species. It will also explore laws and hazards of repelling or removing such species and the risks to humans, plants, and animals. The lethal and non-lethal methods of removal will be discussed.
- Tree Sciences and Practices FSTY0060
Units/ Hours: 45
This course introduces the students to tree anatomy, tree physiology, urban soil conditions, tree installation and the impact of construction on tree health. Field trips deal with tree selection, tree pruning, tree reaction to wounding and an introduction to hazard tree assessment.