Keyano marks graduation of first BSc in Environmental Science class

Posted On Friday May 17, 2019
BSc Env graduates
The first Keyano-MRU Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science Graduates Pedro Bianchi, Erica Ackerman, Jamie Wiseman, and Dorcas Jaricha celebrated convocation on May 10, 2019.

There were hugs and smiles in abundance as the first graduating class of the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science at Keyano College celebrated convocation on Friday, May 10, 2019.

 Graduating students expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to take the BSc program in Fort McMurray.

 “I had an amazing experience at Keyano—it felt like a family,” said graduate Pedro Bianchi.  “I was surrounded by great, knowledgeable people who guided and taught me lessons that I will be taking with me for my entire life. I am so grateful to my fellow classmates and our professors for the bonds we were able to create.”

 The 2019 class of the program celebrated four graduates: Pedro Bianchi, Erica Ackerman, Dorcas Jaricha, and Jamie Wiseman. It was a moment years in the making.

 What began as discussions as far back as 2008, saw the collaborative program with Mount Royal University (MRU) first delivered in the 2017/18 academic year. Using a blended approach that includes face-to-face instruction from Keyano faculty as well as telepresence lectures delivered by MRU faculty, the BSc program builds on the college’s successful Environmental Technology Diploma program.

 Graduating diploma students with a minimum GPA of 2.0, can enter the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science program in Year 3.

The BSc is recognized by the Alberta Institute of Agrologists (AIA) and focuses on environmental issues and solutions associated with developing natural resources. Graduates of the program are able to pursue a variety of careers in the public or private sector.

“The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science offered in collaboration with Mount Royal University is a great example of how Keyano has been responsive to the learning needs of people in our region while addressing the industry need for a highly skilled workforce,” said Dr. Vincella Thompson, Dean of University Studies, Career Programs and Academic Upgrading.

“Environmental science is a field of study that is vitally important in the Wood Buffalo region. In partnering with Mount Royal University, Keyano College is able to offer a unique opportunity to students who wish to remain in their community and obtain a highly sought after credential, while opening our doors to students from the province, the nation, and the world at large to experience the small classroom model that allows Keyano to excel,” said Dr. Jean-Pierre De Villiers, Chairperson, University Studies.

The program is the fourth Bachelor’s Degree program offered through Keyano in collaboration with other another educational institution. Students can also earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Education (Elementary) in collaboration with the University of Alberta, and a Bachelor of Business Administration through the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology.

  

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