Dr. Nicki Frey National Continuing Education Coordinator

The Berryman Institute strives to meet the professional development needs of USDA Wildlife Services and the National Wildlife Research Center (NWRC). Many professionals desire an increase in status to a Wildlife Biologist (486) status. Additionally, professionals also desire to gain college credit for courses attended. The Continuing Education program at the Berryman Institute addresses these concerns via providing college credit for workshops, providing on-line courses designed to meet "486" criteria, and provide counseling on "486" applications.

College Credit for Workshops

College credit for workshop participation is available through Utah State University. Participants may register for a special topics class via Dr. Nicole Frey, and receive 1 credit for participation in the workshop. The process is as follows:

• Contact Dr. Nicole Frey concerning interest in obtaining credit
  
• Dr. Nicole Frey will assist in registration process
  
• Participation in the workshop qualifies for 1 credit of "Pass/Fail" for Wildlife Biology special topics course.
  By also participating in a discussion with Dr. Frey on location of the workshop or via a short paper, one can obtain a specific grade (A, B, C, etc.) for the workshop participation.
  
• More information can be provided by contacting Dr. Nicole Frey

On-line Distance Education Courses

These courses are provided to any interested person, but were specifically designed for USDA professionals seeking qualification for a "486" job classification. Classes are currently proctored by Are Berentsen. Beginning Spring 2007, the classes will be proctored by Nicole Frey. The following classes are available through USU Distance Education:

1. Directed Reading in Wildlife Damage Management WILD 4810
   
2. Wildlife Biology WILD 4950
   
3. Vegetation and Landscape in Wildlife Management WILD 4950
   

These classes can be taken on a semester basis as well as a year-long basis. Please visit the the Distance Education website for more information regarding these online classes. Using the Online Courses tab, you can search for courses by subject, semester or title.

Counseling and Endorsement for "486" qualifications

Applying for professional positions in the resource management agencies can often be overwhelming. The Berryman Institute will provide guidance to anybody that would like a consultation regarding their qualifications toward a "486" classification. On an individual level, Dr. Frey meets with professionals and reviews their resumes and transcripts. She will endorse in writing applications that meet "486" standards.