The Environmental Technician diploma program at Seneca Polytechnic prepares students for careers focused on protecting and managing natural resources, ecosystems and environmental systems. Students gain practical knowledge of land, air and water management while developing field and laboratory skills used across the environmental sector.
The program includes hands-on training in environmental sampling, water quality testing, soil and groundwater assessment, ecosystem management, environmental legislation, erosion control and geospatial mapping technologies. Field-based learning takes place at Seneca’s King Campus, Newnham Campus and conservation field centres, providing students with valuable real-world experience.
An optional co-op stream allows students to gain industry experience and build professional networks. Graduates are prepared for careers in environmental consulting, water and wastewater operations, ecological restoration, environmental compliance, geospatial analysis and environmental project coordination.
- Academic Requirement: • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. • Successful completion of Grade 12. • International applicants must submit academic transcripts and graduation documents. • Background in Environmental Science, Biology, Geography or related subjects is beneficial. • A valid driver's licence is strongly recommended for future co-op and employment opportunities.
- ELP Requirement: • IELTS Academic: 6.0 Overall (No Band Below 5.5) • PTE Academic: 58 • Duolingo English Test: 105-110 • TOEFL iBT: Minimum 20 in each skill • CAEL: 60 • Cambridge English: 169 (No skill below 162)
- Special Requirement: • Optional Co-op stream available through ETMC. • Additional co-op fees may apply. • Extensive field-based learning and environmental sampling activities. • Training includes water, soil and air quality monitoring, ecosystem management, geospatial mapping and environmental compliance. • Ministry of Environment Conservation and Parks (MECP) Entry-Level Course curriculum included for Drinking Water Operators. • A valid G-class driver's licence is strongly recommended. • International students must attend required in-person classes to maintain PGWP eligibility.
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Students whose study permit applications are still pending may request a deferral to the next available intake, provided the request is submitted before Day 10 of classes and the program is available. Deferrals are granted only once.
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Students awaiting an IRCC decision must still meet the deferral deadline. Requests submitted after Day 10 of classes will not be approved solely because a study permit decision is pending.
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Students may alternatively withdraw and apply for a refund by submitting the required withdrawal form and supporting documentation. Applicable administrative fees may be deducted.
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If a study permit application is refused, students may defer their admission and request a new Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) to support a future study permit application. PAL issuance is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed.
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Refund requests due to study permit refusal must include a copy of the official IRCC refusal letter and be submitted within 14 days of the refusal date.
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Only the refusal letter associated with the intake being withdrawn from will be considered for refund eligibility.
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Students whose second study permit application is refused before the start of classes may still qualify for a refund, subject to Seneca’s refund policy.
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Deferral requests are subject to program availability, and late requests may require a written appeal.
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Approved late deferrals may be subject to a CAD $200 late fee.
- Application Fee: $90
- LOA Deposit: $0
- Annual Tuition Fee: $16,409
- Total Tuition Fee: $33,228
- Course Duration: 2 Years
- Credentials: Diploma
- Intake: September 2026
• Completed application form
• CAD $90 application fee
• Passport copy
• Grade 12 certificate
• Academic transcripts/marksheets
• English language proficiency test results (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL/Duolingo)
• Proof of name change (if applicable)
• Additional documents requested by Seneca Polytechnic
• Monitor application status through Seneca Student Home