Development of a new, applied environmental engineering degree program

Abstract

Funds to develop new training initiatives are scarce, if not non-existent. This degree program reflects the commitment made by the staff of its originating department and the vision of Dr. A.R. Barren, P. Eng., who made it happen. This particular degree is one of a new breed, significantly incorporating industry in both its development and its presentation. Its success to date indicates that there was a need for this approach to providing an alternative educational program for current and future professionals. Developing a new degree completion program at the same time as the introduction of a new government approval procedure, presented some challenges. On reflection, both the internal and external approval processes were appropriate. It minimised duplication and verified justification to proceed. This paper outlines the process from identifying the target audience, through the development and approval process and concluding with its implementation. This Bachelor of Technology degree was a new credential in the Province of British Columbia, Canada. Its broad range of major elective studies allows individuals to gain knowledge in any four of nine topic areas. The balance of the program provides a general knowledge of engineering and science principles, integrates management topics and requires completion of an industry sponsored project. The applied nature of the course content, combined with the industry professionals that present it, ensures that the material is relevant and appropriate for the individuals from this sector who are participating. The ease of registration into the program, the frequency and modular format of courses that are offered provides a very high degree of flexibility to the participants. Accreditation of environmental degree programs for professional registration is still evolving.