Protect resources.
Enforce the rules.

Conservation Officer Certificate

Lake Area Tech’s Conservation Officer certificate prepares law enforcement students and officers for work in natural resource and conservation settings. Developed in partnership with South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks, the program focuses on the skills needed to operate effectively in the field.

Offered during the summer semester, this one-semester certificate includes hands-on training in conservation laws and regulations, plant and wildlife identification, land and wildlife management, and the safe operation and maintenance of field equipment.

This program is available only to Lake Area Tech Law Enforcement students and certified law enforcement officers. As a stand-alone certificate, it is not eligible for financial aid.

Conservation Officer Certificate Learning Outcomes

  1. Identify regionally significant wildlife, fish, plants and grasses.
  2. Interpret the principles of habitat, land and wildlife management.
  3. Apply conservation and parks laws/regulations to conservation law enforcement scenarios.
  4. Demonstrate the equipment maintenance, operation, and safety skills needed in the field.

Degree Pairings

Explore relevant degree programs offered at LATC that match well with this class / certificate.

Law Enforcement

Conservation Officer Certificate+ Law Enforcement

Course Outline

Every class, every semester. Find the right pathway to achieve your degree on your timing.

Plan your 2026-2027 semesters

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Alumni Spotlight

"I really enjoyed how the instructors incorporated valuable real-life interactions with local businesses through job shadowing, guest speakers, and on-site business tours."

Read Justin Berry's Story

Estimated Cost

At Lake Area Tech, there are no surprises. View expected expenses below, so you can plan ahead for a successful year.

Online
Tuition & Program Costs
(Accurate as of 2026)
Tuition$1,608
State Fees$540
Departmental Fee $444
Campus Support Fee$372
Uniforms$80
Laptop (What laptop should I get?)$1,190
Total Estimated Program Cost:$4,234

Download PDF of full cost breakdown worksheet

We Value Transparency

We know that college is a large financial undertaking, and our main priority is that there are no surprises as you navigate this journey. Our goal is to offer you the most transparent look at potential costs associated with your degree.

Note that other indirect costs, such as housing, food, transportation, personal and other miscellaneous costs will vary for each student’s situation, and are not included in this estimate.

We strive to offer a variety of financial aid options, as well as helpful resources regarding outside financial aid options.

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