Snow and Avalanche Studies Certificate

The Snow and Avalanche Studies (SAS) certificate program is a cross-disciplinary certificate that will prepapre students to work within the snow and avalanche field. The knowledge, skills, and abilities covered through the certificate will give graduates a “leg up” in the discipline. In addition to the combination of courses embedded in the certificate, students will have the opportunity to earn four separate industry-recognized certifications provided by the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (Avalanche Level 1, Avalanche Level 2, Avalanche Rescue, and Professional Avalanche Level 1).

Go to information for the Snow and Avalanche Studies certificate

Requirements for a Certificate in Snow and Avalanche Studies

A student majoring in any discipline may complete a certificate in Snow and Avalanche Studies upon satisfactory fulfilling the core and elective requirements.

Note: A grade of C or better is required in all courses required for the certificate.

Core Courses:

AE 242 - Avalanche Level 1 and Rescue Credits: 2
AE 243 - Avalanche Level 2 Credits: 1
AE 343 - Advanced Winter Backcountry Travel and Management Credits: 3
AE 380 - Adventure Education Practicum Credits: 1-6
(minimum of two (2) credits required)
AE 441 - Professional Avalanche Level One Credits: 3
GEOG 235 - Weather and Climate [LAC-SC2] Credits: 3
GEOL 470 - Snow Science Credits: 4

TOTAL REQUIRED FOR CERTIFICATE - CREDITS: 18

Prior to course registration, students should review all courses for prerequisites, minimum prerequisite grade requirements and minimum class standing.

Note: At least 50% of the coursework toward the certificate must be earned at Fort Lewis College.