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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Resource Management Officer Technology (RMOT) Diploma program prepare one for?

The RMOT courses at Vancouver Island University provide academic training and practical experience required for preparation for careers related to the protection and management of Canada's fisheries, wildlife, and parks resources.  Past graduates have found employment as Fishery Officers, Fishery Inspectors, Compliance and Enforcement Foresters, Conservation Officers, Park Rangers, Park Wardens, Environmental Investigators, Environmental Consultants, Park interpreters, Wildlife officers, and as Technicians, among others.

What makes VIU’s Resource Management Officer Technology Diploma Program unique?

VIU's RMOT program is the only Fish and Wildlife Technology program in B.C. that focuses on law enforcement and the legislation applicable to fish and wildlife management and conservation. Students learn to use field investigative techniques to apprehend and prosecute violators of fish, wildlife and environmental laws.

Who can apply?

Those candidates that meet the “general admission requirements” of Vancouver Island University and meet the following:

  • English 12 with minimum “C” grade, or equivalent
  • Math 11 (Principles of Mathematics 11) with minimum “C” grade; or Applications of Mathematics 11 with a minimum C+ grade
  • Biology 11 with minimum “C” grade or equivalent
  • Two letters of reference
  • Resume
  • A personal letter indicating reasons for applying
 

Is the above list the only requirement for entrance to the diploma program?

No, candidates will be required to complete a panel interview as a part of the application process.

Are there other courses recommended to take to help in the application process?

Courses that are recommended for admission are:

  • Completion of the BC Ministry of Environment CORE program
  • Biology 12
  • Chemistry 11
  • Math 12
  • Hands on Computer experience including experience in MS Windows and MS Excel

When can one apply for entrance to the RMOT program?

Applications are accepted between November 15 and March 31.  Applications received after March 31 are considered late and will be processed as space permits.

When is the student information session for the RMOT programs?

The information session is usually scheduled in January. Keep an eye on the NEWS section of this website for details.

Is entrance to the RMOT programs based on a “first come, first serve” basis?

No, entrance to the program is not a “first come first serve” basis.  Students must still complete the interview as part of the screening process.

How many students are admitted into the program each intake?

The Diploma program (Year 1) intake every September is about 24 students, depending on seat availability.

The availability of seats in the Degree program (Years 3 and 4) strongly depends on the number of seats available as the degree program seats are offered to RMOT Diploma graduates first. The maximum number of students entering year three is capped at 18.

What are my chances at being offered a seat in the Diploma or Degree programs?

The chance of being offered a seat in the Resource Management Programs is strongly dependent on the number of applications received.  This number of applicants received varies from year to year.

If I don’t get offered a seat one year, can I apply the following year?

Yes, if a seat is not offered to you one year, you may apply again.

If I don’t get accepted one year but plan on reapplying –are there courses I can take that will give me credit in the program?

Yes, you would have to send in a general application to Admissions to take the University transferable courses. 

A few examples of the University transferable courses are as follows:

Biology 121(Introductory Zoology)

English 115 ( College Composition)

Mathematics 181 (Introductory Statistics)

 

It is best to contact Greg Klimes , Chair of RMOT for an updated list of potential courses and other recommendations.

Unfortunately all RMOT coded courses are only open to candidates who have accepted seats in the Diploma/Degree programs.

Should I apply if I have not completed all pre-requisites?

Yes, you can apply for the program to comply with the application dates set by Admissions; however the application will not be considered complete until documented proof of completion of all pre-requisites is shown to Admissions.

What other expenses are incurred throughout the Diploma program?

Students may be required to take courses to certify in Occupational First Aid Level 1 with Transportation Endorsement ($150), Canadian Coast Guard Pleasure Craft Operator Card, Restricted Operator Card for Marine VHF radios, and others identified by the program. There is a mandatory field trip fee of $150/per student for the Diploma program.

Students should prepare themselves with personal equipment i.e. raingear, camera, binoculars, boots, and waders (about $300)In addition to the above, tuition and textbooks—all travel and accommodation expenses for off-campus practicums  and course assignments are the responsibility of the student.

All fees and other costs are subject to change without prior notice.

What other expenses may be incurred throughout the Degree program?

Students should have personal outdoor equipment i.e. raingear, boots, waders, binoculars and a camera.

Students may be required to take certification courses as part of the Advanced Field Skills Curriculum, offered in third year.

In addition to the above, tuition and textbooks—all travel and accommodation expenses for off-campus practicums  and course assignments are the responsibility of the student.

All fees and other costs are subject to change without prior notice.

How much homework can one expect?

Students tell us that on average 4-6 hours per day is normal, however this does increase when assignments are due.

Is the diploma transferable to a Bachelor degree program at Vancouver Island University?

As of September 2006, there is now opportunity for an RMOT diploma graduate to transfer directly into the Bachelor of Natural Resource Protection program.  Students could also apply for partial transfer of credit to either the Bachelor of Science, Major in Biology , or the Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Aquaculture degrees offered by Vancouver Island University.

What is the transferability of the RMOT diploma to other institutions?

For transfer to other institutions, one would have to contact the Admissions Department in the college or university of interest to learn more specifics to the transferability requirements.

If I have recently received a Fish and Wildlife Diploma at BCIT, Selkirk or Lethbridge Community College, am I able receive direct transfer into the Bachelor of Natural Resource Protection?

Each candidate and his/her credentials are examined on a case-by-case basis.  VIU’s Resource Management Officer Technology Diploma places a strong focus on enforcement curriculum and students may be requested to take a minimum of a bridging semester to bring all students entering the Degree program up to the same level.

On average, what percentages of graduates gain employment in the field?

Currently all graduates who seek employment find work.  It is not always full-time regular employment at first , but there is an abundance of seasonal work that graduates have accepted to gain valuable experience in order to meet the criteria for full-time positions.

I graduated from the two year Diploma program however have not received my diploma. Why?

All graduates must complete an "Application for Diploma" as they are not issued automatically.