Arboriculture Technician Certificate at Olds College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-10

Program overview

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Program overview

The Arboriculture Technician Certificate program at Olds College is designed for those eager to embark on a career in urban forestry. This program focuses on the essential principles of tree management within sustainable urban ecosystems. Over the course of this program, students will learn to apply current industry safety standards and practices while developing their skills in tree care. With hands-on training led by experienced instructors, students will engage in both ground and aerial operations, pruning, and tree risk assessments. This unique program is the only one of its kind in Alberta, providing students with invaluable practical experience in a dedicated Landscape Pavilion and the college's urban forest.

Program structure

The Arboriculture Technician Certificate program spans a four-month period, offering a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for a career in urban forestry. The program is delivered on-campus, allowing students to benefit from direct interaction with instructors and hands-on learning experiences. Key features of the program structure include:

Hands-on training in a 12,000 square foot Landscape Pavilion.
Opportunities to conduct ground and aerial operations.
Practical experience in tree pruning and risk assessments.
Focus on current industry safety standards and practices.

Students can expect a rigorous schedule, typically involving class or field trips for up to 3-8 hours a day on weekdays. The program also includes assignments that may require an estimated 50 hours per week of effort, combining class time and independent study.

Featured Experiences

The Arboriculture Technician Certificate program offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning process:

Exclusive access to the only Arboriculture program in Alberta.
Hands-on training in a state-of-the-art Landscape Pavilion.
Field trips to various urban forestry sites for practical learning.
Opportunities to engage in both ground and aerial operations.
Collaboration with industry-trained instructors who provide real-world insights.

These experiences are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the arboriculture field.

Career Options

Graduates of the Arboriculture Technician Certificate program can pursue a variety of career opportunities in Canada, including:

Arboriculture Company Owner/Operator: Manage your own business focused on tree care and management services.
Landscape Maintenance: Work with landscaping companies to maintain and enhance outdoor spaces.
Municipal Parks Service: Contribute to the management and maintenance of public parks and green spaces.
Urban Forester: Oversee tree management and urban forestry initiatives within city environments.
Tree Risk Assessor: Evaluate the health and safety of trees in urban settings, providing recommendations for care or removal.

These roles not only offer a chance to work outdoors but also play a crucial part in maintaining the health and sustainability of urban ecosystems.

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

Visit Olds College official website

Last updated on 2025-07-10

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Arboriculture Technician Certificate program has specific Academic Requirements that applicants must meet to be considered for enrollment. Below are the key requirements:

Minimum of 50% or better in the following courses:
- English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2
- Math 20-1 or 20-2
- Two of the following: Biology 20, Chemistry 20, Science 20, OR one of Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Science 30
For Academic Upgrading and High School Applicants:
- Proof of enrollment and any available interim/midterm marks must be submitted.
- Final marks must be submitted within one month following the completion of the course(s) and no later than one month prior to the program start date.
Alternate Admission Option: Applicants who have not completed one of the academic Academic Requirements may be considered under Alternate Admission Status. Required materials include:
- Transcript(s) showing any completed high school and post-secondary courses.
- Letter of Introduction and Intent, detailing personal introduction, reasons for enrollment, career goals, and relevant experience.
- A resume of work history, extracurricular activities, and volunteer service for the last 5 years.
- Optional: Copies of any tickets and/or certificates (e.g., first aid, safety tickets).
- Optional: Up to two letters of reference from employers or coaches.
Transfer Options: Agreements with other educational institutions allow for transition to Olds College or to continue education elsewhere.
International Applicants: Olds College welcomes applications from international students and those who have completed high school outside of Canada. All noted Academic Requirements must still be met, including English Language Proficiency.

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

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

Language Requirements

The language of instruction at Olds College is English. Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate that they have completed at least three years of academic study conducted entirely in English.

Applicants who do not meet this requirement must demonstrate language proficiency through successful completion of an accepted English Language proficiency assessment dated within two years of application submission. All English Language Proficiency Assessments will be verified online by an Admission Officer.

Accepted English Language Proficiency Assessments include:

Duolingo English Test - score of at least 110
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) IBT - Internet-based test - overall score of no less than 80 with no academic section below 18
International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic Stream) - a score of 6.0 or higher in each band
Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL) Online - overall score of no less than 60, with no band below 50
Pearson Test of English (PTE) - score of at least 55 with no skill profile below 55
Oxford English Language Level Test (ELLT) - no band below 5, with an overall score of no less than 6

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!