CCTC's Natural Resources Management program expands options for students

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Central Carolina Technical College's Natural Resources Management (NRM) program is set to offer more learning options for its students this fall.

The program, which is designed to prepare students for a career in the management and protection of natural resources, has traditionally offered classes in an outdoor setting in Sumter. Going forward, those experiences will still be available in addition to online and hybrid classroom methods.

"We are very excited about the changes to the Natural Resources Management program," said Dean of Workforce Development and the South Carolina Environmental Training Center Elizabeth Williams. "The new hybrid format will allow students to have more flexibility with their courses and still provide them the opportunity for hands-on learning. The 100 percent online format will be great for students who are working full-time or living in other areas of the state."

The COVID-19 pandemic has created opportunities for program expansion through various online options and formats, allowing students to complete their classes from anywhere. The hybrid format gives students a mix of both remote and hands-on learning.

Williams also said that students can take advantage of South Carolina's beautiful natural resources by visiting state parks, reserves and privately owned land.

These unique, interactive learning experiences are only available at CCTC. The visits to parks and private lands allows students to develop skills such as species identification, outdoor navigation, trail maintenance and equipment use.

Classes in the Natural Resources Management program are open for registration. For more information on enrollment, interested students can contact the Office of Admissions at 803-778-1961. For more information on the NRM program, contact Department Chair of Environmental and Natural Resources Josh Castleberry at 803-778-6601 or email at castleberryjs@cctech.edu.