The Division of Science & Mathematics offers an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Environmental and Regulatory Science. This degree is designed for the student desiring entry-level positions in environmental management, safety, health, or green technology jobs. There are two options available for this technical, competency-based degree. Option I focuses on safety & health and the management of hazardous materials in the workplace. Option II focuses on the management of environmental resources and GIS technology and software. Certificates of proficiency and technical certificates for pursuing education advancement in applied areas of environmental and regulatory science are also available. Completed course work may lead to educational requirements for professional certification such as CSP, CET, or CHMM for those already employed in the environmental and safety fields. Participation in fieldwork and internship may be required for completion of degree or certificates. This program is a good foundation for students wishing to transfer to a four-year institution with the desire to complete a Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Science or health-related field. To acquaint students with professional opportunities within the field, students are encouraged to participate in local safety and health conferences and student section of ASSE prior to graduation.

In addition to college credit, students can receive additional certifications in some classes.

Examples: 40-Hour HAZWOPER certification, OSHA 30- Hour General Industry certification, and EPA certificate for environmental management.

For more information, contact Sonya Zawada, at (479) 619-3133 or (800) 995-6922, or sgraveszawada@nwacc.edu.

In 2007, Arkansas Department of Higher Education approved the curriculum for Option I (Safety & Health, and Hazardous Materials Management) for online delivery and (A.A.S.) degree in Environmental and Regulatory Science became the first A.A.S. online degree for NWACC. This curriculum meets the guidelines developed jointly by the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) and the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP).

These guidelines define academic requirements for safety degrees and other routes of academic preparation for the profession.

These guidelines reflect the tasks and functions performed by safety practitioners. The Safety & Health and Hazardous Materials Management Option I Curriculum is designed to provide occupational safety and health training to both pre-service and in-service safety practitioners. The courses may be completed via internet delivery or at our Bentonville, AR campus. The flexibility of online courses allows you to continue your education while meeting employment, community and family responsibilities.

Programs

Associate of Applied Science

Environmental & Regulatory Science, A.A.S. - Degree Plan

Certificate of Proficiency

Technical Certificate

Workforce Readiness

Programs

Certificate of Proficiency

Pre-Health Sciences

The purpose of the Certificate of Proficiency in Pre- Health Sciences is to prepare students for employment and further success in licensure. This certificate fosters development of a skill set fundamental to health care as identified by area health professionals. The core required courses form the foundation for all the health professions A.A.S. degrees offered by the college. The human anatomy and physiology courses provide a crucial knowledge base for all members of health professions. The computer and English composition courses develop important skills necessary for the workplace. The electives offer options for students based on career interest and are required for health professions A.A.S. degrees. Successful completion of the certificate will result in an individual with basic proficiency suitable for a variety of non-licensed positions in the health care field.

Students can also earn the following certificates:

Programs

Certificate of Proficiency

Pre-Health Sciences Certificate of Proficiency - Degree Plan