Work Experience
The Work Experience (WE) component is one of the strengths of the degree program in Environmental Science. These two, employer-paid, four-month work terms give you an opportunity to gain real world experience, make industry contacts and apply classroom theory on the job.
If you are a student and would like to learn more about Work Experience in the Environmental Science program, visit Career Services for Students. If you are an employer considering hiring a student for a paid work term, visit Career Services for Employers for more information. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers:
Work Experience terms are usually one semester in duration (approximately four months) of employer-paid work experience that provides students with an opportunity to put into practice what they have learned in the classroom. At Mount Royal we value the added benefits of these work terms in contributing to the overall learning experience.
Yes. Current salary rates, determined by employers, range from $10-$17 per hour, dependent on qualifications and experience. Salary ranges will be stated on job postings. It is important to budget for expenses incurred prior to your first pay day. Also, you are eligible to apply for student loans to supplement your income (if needed).
Yes! All students enrolled in the Bachelor of Applied Science - Environmental Science program must complete two WE terms to be eligible to graduate.
Students in the Environmental Science program can expect to be paid in the range of $12 to $22 per hour, depending on experience and background, while on their WE.
You will be expected to do your first work term during the spring/summer semester (semester five) following your second year in the program. To qualify, you must successfully complete up to and including all fourth semester core requirements and / or have department consent.
Your second work term occurs during the winter semester of your third year (semester seven). To qualify, you must successfully complete all sixth semester core requirements and / or have consent of the department. The Environmental Science program has been designed for you to complete your final semester on campus.
Yes. You will be assigned a faculty instructor whose role it is to assist you throughout your work experience. The instructor will also provide you with a course outline and course assignments that to be fulfilled during your directed field studies. Your work experience coordinator will also be available to assist with any issues or concerns about your workplace environment.
Frequently we will evaluate previous work experience and give credit for that experience towards one of your WE experience terms. Students interested in receiving credit for previous work experience normally file a PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment Request) to have their prior experience evaluated.
Many of your questions will likely be answered by Environmental Science Faculty during the course of your studies. If you would like to contact your Environmental Science Work Experience Coordinator call Vance Koberstein at 403.440.8863.
Our graduates have found employment in a variety of industries and settings ranging from large oil and gas companies, environmental consulting firms, government agencies to non-profit organizations.