Education · 1 of 5
The path
Education first, then a long selection, then an academy.
- 1
High school diploma
Grade 12
Biology, English and physical education. You also want real outdoor experience: hunting, fishing, boating, camping.
- 2
Get the credential
2 to 4 years
BC asks for an applied degree or technical diploma in a recognised natural resource law enforcement program. Alberta asks for at least three years of post-secondary study, such as a conservation law enforcement degree or a natural resource diploma plus experience.
- 3
Pass the fitness test and selection
6 to 18 months
BC requires the physical abilities test known as PARE (Physical Abilities Requirement Evaluation) at the recruit standard of 4 minutes 45 seconds, plus written testing, interviews, security screening, a medical and a psychological evaluation.
- 4
The academy
About 18 weeks
About 18 weeks at the Western Conservation Law Enforcement Academy: firearms, investigations, legal studies, emergency vehicle operations, water safety and wildlife conflict management.
- 5
Field training
2 years
BC runs a 24 month new officer field training program with an experienced mentor before you work on your own.