Park Ranger

Park Ranger Training

Park Ranger Training is a general program that focuses on the studies and activities relating to the natural environment and its conservation, use and improvement.  The program includes instruction in subjects such as climate, air, soil, water, land fish and wildlife and plant resources: in the basic principles of environmental science and natural resources management; and the recreational and economic uses of renewable and non-renewable natural resources.

The Natural Resource Ranger Program is a 16-week, 15-credit program designed to prepare students for entry level Natural Resource Ranger and Interpreter positions in Federal, State, County and Municipal Park systems.  Participants will experience both classroom and hands-on field training and education.

With the addition of the MPOETC Act 120 Police Academy, students will further qualify for Law Enforcement Ranger positions as well.  This portion of the program is designed to take 785.5 hours to complete. Click here for Act 120 program information.

Ranger Training Curriculum Information

                        COURSES                                                                      

1.   Park and Forest Environmental Interpretation & Management  (3 credits)

2.   Intro to Pennsylvania Wildlife Management  (3 credits)                       

3.   Pennsylvania Dendrology & Wild Flower   (3 credits)                              

4.   North American Birds & Birds of Prey Identification       (3 credits)           

5.   Intro Wetlands & Fisheries; (Fish, Reptile & Amphibian) (3 credits)

The job placement rate is approximately 75% and according to CNN Money, half of the Park Ranger positions in the Northeastern United States could become vacant in the next 5 years including positions in inner cities where Rangers protect our national heritage.

We propose to start this program during Fall semesters 2012 and Title IV funding would be disbursed at that time.  We have concluded that this program will become very successful since there are very few if any specifically dedicated Ranger Training Programs that have Police Academy courses of study attached to them.  In discussions with our consultant, he has informed us that normally candidates with police training are better equipped for job placement than candidates without this training.

Tuition

$9760.00         (Books & Materials additional $TBD)
Total Hours:    1010.5
Classroom:      Monday, Wednesday, Friday (time(s) TBD)
Lab/Field:        Tuesday, Thursday (time(s) TBD)