Surface Land Management (SLM)

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, particularly 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. 

Please note that students can expect 1-2 hours per week of live engagement with classmates and the
course instructor for discussions, questions, as well as presentation of assignments. 

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.

Delivery Method: Online
Dates: Course dependent
Costs: Please see course specifics below
Certification: Microcredential badge upon each successful course completion

SLM learning pathway

Core Course: Fundamentals of Surface Land Management SLM 7001

Dates: January 12 - March 20, 2026 & April 13 - June 19, 2026
Cost: $899 + GST  
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online

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.

Core Course: Regulatory Processes and Stakeholder Engagement SLM 7002

Dates: April 13 - June 19, 2026 & August 10 - October 16, 2026
Cost: $899 + GST
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online

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.

Core Course: Negotiations and Documentation SLM 7003

Dates: October 26, 2026 - January 18, 2027
Cost: $899 + GST
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online

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.

Core Course: Conflict Resolution and Ethics SLM 7004

Dates: February 9 - April 17, 2026
Cost: $899 + GST + Textbook
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online

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.

• Required Textbook: The Elements of Ethics for Professionals by W. Brad Johnson and Charles R. Ridley ($36 for hardcopy, $17 for e-book) - ISBN-13: 978-0230603912
• Recommended Textbook: The Young Professional's Survival Guide by C.K. Gunsalus ( $30 for paperback, $20 e-book) - ISBN-13: ‎978-0674970816

Core Course: Surface Land Management & Agriculture SLM 7011

Dates: January 12 - February 6, 2026 & March 9 - April 3, 2026
Cost: $250 + GST
Prerequisites: None
Delivery Method: Online

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.