The Surface Land Management courses will equip learners with essential knowledge and skills, preparing them to navigate the complexities of land management in Canada, particularly within Alberta. Students will develop knowledge of foundational principles, regulatory processes and stakeholder engagement, specifically with Indigenous communities.
In addition, students will develop foundational competencies in negotiation, conflict resolution and workplace ethics. Elective courses provide opportunities for further exploration into agriculture, Indigenous engagement and consultation. Students also gain practical work-integrated learning which allows them to tailor the learning experience to meet their professional goals.
Why become a Surface Land Agent?
A Surface Land Agent is a rewarding career that combines people skills, problem-solving and Alberta’s thriving energy and infrastructure industries. Surface land agents play a vital role in connecting companies with landowners, helping projects move forward while respecting landowner rights. With strong demand, competitive pay, and a mix of office and field work, this licensed profession offers variety, independence, and opportunities to grow into leadership or specialized roles across the resource sector.
Learner Expectations:
Students can expect 1 - 2 hours every two weeks of live engagement online with classmates and the course instructor. This face-time is very beneficial for students and will be used for discussions, questions as well as presentation of assignments. While not mandatory, it is highly reccomended to attend the bi-weekly engagement sessions.
While students can start with any of the scheduled courses, it is suggested that individuals who are new to Surface Land Management start with SLM 7001 Fundamentals of Surface Land Management. Experienced Land Agents can start with any available course.
Future Career Pathways:
Dates: September 14 - November 20, 2026
Cost: $899 + GST
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online, 60 hours
This course introduces students to the principles and practices of surface land management. Students will develop foundational knowledge of industry sectors, legal frameworks and ownership interests to effectively engage in planning and acquisition activities across Canada, with a focus on land management in Alberta. The foundational knowledge contained in this course will support students in successfully navigating the content of the rest of the courses. The course capstone project will include a one-hour online presentation to a panel of industry experts. Details to be confirmed by the instructor during the course.
Dates: August 10 - October 16, 2026
Cost: $899 + GST
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online, 60 hours
This course examines the role of Land Agents in the public consultation process. Students will survey non-renewable energy developments to determine regulatory requirements and stakeholder engagement directives. A significant stakeholder in surface land management is Indigenous communities & peoples. Students will examine processes and protocols when land development interests are on-reserve or in traditional territory. Finally, students will analyze and compare issues in case-specific land development examples in an Oil & Gas context.
Dates: October 26 - December 18, 2026
Cost: $899 + GST
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online, 60 hours
This course equips learners with the skills and knowledge to effectively negotiate and document agreements related to surface rights access. Students will develop competencies in contract analysis, strategic negotiation and effective documentation processes across various project phases.
Dates: Early 2027
Cost: $899 + GST + Textbook
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online, 60 hours
Students in this course will learn to navigate conflicts, maintain professionalism, and apply interest-based negotiation techniques in various scenarios. A critical piece of being a successful negotiator is being aware of your own motivations and triggers. As part of this course, you will have access to a personal assessment that will highlight your preference around conflict styles. With this increased awareness, SLM 7004 will help you put a plan in place to expand your practical conflict resolution skills and ethical considerations essential for a successful surface land agent career.
Dates: Jan. 11 - March 5, 2027
Cost: $899 + GST
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online, 60 hours
This course provides students with a basic understanding of the generally accepted knowledge and practices of project management, in relation to SLM practices and protocols.
Dates: Open Enrolment
Cost: $250 + GST
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online, 14 hours
This course has been designed to provide the learner with a foundation of knowledge about Canada's agriculture, providing a broad overview of Canadian agriculture and what it has to offer. Topics examined include production practices, equipment and facilities as well as markets and uses. Learners gain a national perspective for both livestock and crop production.
Dates: In Development
Cost: To be confirmed
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online, 60 hours
In this course, Students will explore the processes and protocols involved in land development on reserves and traditional Territories.
Dates: In Development
Cost: To be confirmed
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online, 60 hours
This course explores the regulatory environment and challenges in renewable energy development, with a focus on key stakeholders.
Dates: In Development
Cost: To be confirmed
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: 90 hours
Completing this 90 hour work-integrated placement allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, gaining insight into surface land management from both a consulting and in-house perspective.
Oct. 28, 2026 - Save the Date!
Provincial Synergy Summit 2026
Synergy Into the Future
Holiday Inn & Suites, Gasoline Alley, Red Deer AB
Hosted by: West Central Stakeholders & Central Alberta Synergy
Contact: Rick Anderson | 403.847.8086 or albertasynergysummit@gmail.com
The Olds College of Agriculture & Technology Surface Land Management Certificate of Completion and the individual courses are recognized by Alberta Land Agent Licensing. Training can be used in the following capacities:
The Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant (CAPG) helps employers cover the cost of eligible training — including programs like this one — to enhance productivity and strengthen workforce skills for today’s fast-changing economy.
With funding from the Government of Canada through the Workforce Development Agreement, employers can apply on behalf of their employees and receive partial reimbursement for approved training.
Phone: 403.556.4740
Toll-Free: 1.800.661.6537
Email: itce@oldscollege.ca