Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can you take the course on a part-time basis?
    No, the Wilderness Leadership course is a 20-week, full time course. However, single courses are sometimes offered.
  2. Is it possible to continue working while attending the Wilderness Program?
    It is not recommended that you try to work as well as attend this program. The schedule is not consistent enough for an employer to book your time and the classroom work is very demanding. See the sample calendar to get an idea of your workload.
  3. How much time is spent in the classroom versus in the field during skills?
    The time is broken down approximately 70% outside, 30% inside.
  4. Is there a dorm on campus? What is the housing situation in Squamish? There is no dorm on campus. The campus is very small, however there are a number of suitable facilities for the students. The campus is within walking distance of downtown Squamish and all amenities. The cost of accommodation ranges from $500/month to approximately $700/month for room and board at local homes. Most students share accommodation and pay about $400 - $500 each. We can provide students with a list of names of others interested in finding a roommate.
  5. What is the average age of the students?
    Generally, 80% of students are 18-24; 10% 25-32 and the remaining 10% over 32 years of age. In addition, 25% of the students have some post secondary education prior to entry. There is always a range of students from across Canada interspersed with two or three international students.
  6. Are the core courses taught at the Squamish Campus or the North Vancouver Campus?
    All core courses are taught at the Squamish Campus.
  7. Do I need to have my own tent, skis, kayak, canoe etc..
    It is useful to have your own tent and stove, but not necessary. Students usually share these items. The campus supplies the large equipment, while personal gear is each student's responsibility. Please review the Equipment List.
  8. Can I pick my own individual courses out of each skill set?
    No, unless you can prove an equivalent course or ability. Those credits can then be earned by taking an alternate skill if space permits. In the Advanced program, there will be more options to select your own courses.
  9. Are there any prerequisites for the program?
    Applicants must be 18 years of age and have a grade 12 education or equivalency. They must have good reading and writing skills, and have previous relevant outdoor experience. Prospective students must be healthy, as well as, physically and psychologically prepared for the challenges of the program and the demands of the industry. For more information, see admission requirements.
  10. Do I need my own transportation?
    Buses or vans transport the students for remote field trips. Otherwise students are expected to make their own way to the local skill locations, ranging from in town to a 25 minute drive from the campus. Students generally carpool to these locations. Public transit often does not transport to our field locations, but is adequate for getting to and from school.
  11. What does tuition include?
    Tuition includes six core courses, one skill set consisting of six skills, all the major equipment pertaining to each skill, transportation outside of the local area and certifications.
  12. What does tuition not include?
    Tuition does not include transportation in the local Squamish area, textbooks, administration fees, photocopying, membership fees, computer printing, and student services.
  13. What is the deadline for application?
    The deadline for application is May 31. Applications are accepted all year but prospective students should know the program is usually filled by late May. We do take a waiting list in case of withdrawals.
  14. Does the program qualify for student loans or other funding?
    Yes, students may be eligible for funding through Human Resources Development Canada, the Métis Society, First Nations Bands and Councils, and through application to Canada Student Loans. See Financial Aid for further informaiton.
  15. What certifications can I earn? 

    This changes depending on the skill set you choose and whether you continue onto the Advanced program. This is subject to change, but in the 2010/2011 year students were eligible for:

    • Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 & 2 – Canadian Avalanche Association (Winter Skills & Ski Touring - AWLP)

    • Nordic Ski Instructor Level 1 - Canadian Association of Nordic Ski Instructors (Nordic 1 - AWLP)

    • Nordic Ski Instructor Level 2 - Canadian Association of Nordic Ski Instructors (Nordic 2 -AWLP)

    • Lakewater Instructor - Recreational Canoeing Association British Columbia (Canoe 1 - WLP)

    • Moving Water Level 1 – Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia (Water Travel Unit – WLP)

    • Assistant Sea Kayak Guide – Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of British Columbia (Sea Kayak 2 - AWLP)

    • Wilderness First Responder – SIRIUS Wilderness Medicine (All students - WLP)

    • Basic Cruising Standard – Canadian Yachting Association – (Sailing 1 –Water Travel Unit -WLP)

    • Raft Guide – British Columbia River Outfitters Association – (Rafting 2 – Water Travel Unit only - AWLP)

    • Swiftwater Rescue Technician – Rescue 3 International – (River Rescue Clinic – AWLP)

    • Marine VHF Operators – Canadian Power & Sail Squadron – (Sea Kayak 2 – AWLP)

 

See also: