College Diploma - Resources Drilling Technician (RDB) (Optional Co-op) at Fleming College - Program overview

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Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-02-27

Program overview

Dive into the Resources Drilling Technician program at Fleming College, the only program of its kind in Canada. This unique program equips students with foundational skills for various drilling sectors, preparing them for a thriving career in the drilling industry. Students will engage in hands-on training with a full range of drilling equipment, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the job market. With a focus on safety and practical learning, graduates will emerge as competent professionals ready to tackle the challenges of the drilling field.

Program structure

The Resources Drilling Technician program spans four semesters and is delivered through a combination of in-person and hybrid formats. Students can expect a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Key features of the program structure include:

Hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities.
Optional paid co-op opportunities for students starting in September, allowing them to integrate classroom learning with real-world experience.
Advanced standing options for students with relevant university degrees or college diplomas, enabling them to enter directly into semester two.
Field assignments and specialized training in various drilling techniques.

Students who begin in January will attend classes over the summer semester, ensuring a continuous learning experience. The program is designed to provide a well-rounded education, preparing students for diverse career paths in the drilling industry.

Featured Experiences

The Resources Drilling Technician program offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance learning and career readiness:

Hands-on Training: Students will work with a full range of drilling equipment in both classroom and field settings.
Optional Co-op: Students can apply for a paid co-op placement, providing valuable work experience and networking opportunities.
Industry Recognition: Graduates are exempt from the mandatory Ontario Ministry of the Environment 10-day Water Well Constructed Course.
Field Assignments: Students will participate in field assignments in local quarries and job-related activities, applying their skills in real-world scenarios.
Scholarship Opportunities: Eligible second-semester students can apply for an industry-supported Drilling Scholarship of $500.

Career Options

Graduates of the Resources Drilling Technician program have a wide array of career options available to them in Canada. Here are some potential job roles:

Driller: Operates drilling equipment to extract resources from the ground, ensuring safety and efficiency.
Geotechnical Driller: Conducts subsurface investigations to evaluate soil and rock conditions for construction projects.
Environmental Driller: Collects soil and groundwater samples to monitor and remediate contaminated sites.
Horizontal Directional Driller: Utilizes specialized techniques to drill beneath obstacles like roads and rivers for utility installations.
Water Well Technician: Designs, constructs, and maintains water wells, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

With the demand for skilled professionals in the drilling industry on the rise, graduates can expect excellent job prospects and competitive salaries, making this program a valuable investment in their future.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2026-02-27

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Resources Drilling Technician (Optional Co-op) program at Fleming College, students must meet the following academic requirements:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) including Grade 12 C English and Grade 12 C Math.
OSSD with a majority of courses at College (C) or Open (O) unless otherwise stated.
Grade 12 C courses will be accepted where Grade 11 C course requirements are listed.
Where College level courses are listed, University (U) and Mixed (M) courses will be accepted.

For international students, specific requirements include:

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Additionally, students entering the program in September may apply for an optional paid co-op. To be eligible, students must:

Achieve a minimum of 70% (2.5 GPA) average.
Pass all courses in Semester 1.

Students with a university degree or Ontario College Diploma in a related field may receive credit for Semester 1 and enter directly into Semester 2. Relevant degrees include:

Environmental Science
Environmental Studies
Science - Chemistry or Biology
Geography

Graduates with an Ontario College Diploma in fields such as Environmental Science/Studies or Natural Resources will also be considered for advanced standing.

For any clarification or support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

In addition to the academic admission requirements, all applicants to Fleming College must provide proof of English proficiency in order to be considered for admission, using one of the following options:

English Language Proficiency Requirements

Option 1 - Submit test results from one of the accepted tests listed:

Submission of English Language Test Scores. Applicants may receive direct admission by submitting one of the following recognized English language test scores with their application.

Internet-based (iBT) TOEFL: 80 with no score less than 20
Paper-based (PBT) TOEFL: 550
International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic): 6.0 with no band less than 5.5
Duolingo: 105+
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL): Overall 60
Canadian Academic English Language - ONLINE (CAEL - ONLINE): Overall 60
Michigan English Test (MET): 56
PTE Academic (Pearson Test English): 46+
Cambridge English Exams (B2 First/FCE, C1 Advanced/CAE or C2 Proficiency/CPE): Minimum 169 with no skill below 162
Oxford ELLT: 6 (No band less than 5)

Special notes: Test scores to be valid for a minimum of 2 months following date of application. Students applying within Canada, currently attending an accredited University or College, with expired test scores can be considered for direct admission if the student successfully progresses in a post-secondary program.

Option 2:

Successful completion of Level 8, in Fleming College’s English Language Bridge (ELB) Program.

Diploma/Certificates require 70% grade in Level 8
Post Graduate Certificates require 80% grade in Level 8

Option 3:

Successful completion of English as a Second Language (ESL) or English for Academic Preparation (EAP) at an Ontario Community College, University, or approved pathway language organization.

Option 4:

Provide proof of language proficiency based on previous education:

Successfully completed three consecutive years of study at the secondary school (high school) level in English in a country where English is a primary language.
Completed one full year of study (within the last 2 years) in an accredited post-secondary program in English in a country where English is a primary language.
Obtain an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or Canadian provincial equivalent) and English credit (Grade 12 C) issued by a public or Catholic school board.
Provide proof of graduation from one of the authorized Fleming College pathway partners.
Completed three consecutive years of study at a secondary private school in Ontario and received an Ontario Secondary School Diploma and English credit (Grade 12 C).

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!