Avalanche Science: Avalanche Field Technician Certificate

CMC Avalanche Science class inspects snow layers in a snow pit.

Professional Level Avalanche Safety and Snow Science Training Taught by Industry Experts

Earn an American Avalanche Association PRO certification and a Snow, Weather & Avalanche Field Technician certificate

The Avalanche Science program at Colorado Mountain College Leadville is unlike any other snow safety program in the country. Designed by industry experts from the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, Colorado Mountain College and the U.S. Forest Service, the program prepares current and aspiring avalanche workers with comprehensive training and education.

Two years of Immersive Avalanche Studies

The only two-year program of its kind, students will study two winters of mountain snowpack over four semesters of immersive avalanche studies. Graduates will earn a Snow, Weather and Avalanche Field Technician certification and simultaneously obtain American Avalanche Association PRO certification.

Learn from Avalanche Experts

The curriculum was developed in partnership with the CAIC and USFS. Faculty members are working professionals recognized throughout the industry. They bring years of field experience in avalanche research, forecasting and education.

Students work directly with instructors and gain relevant experience through industry internships while building a professional network.

Online Classes & In Person Sessions

The hybrid format is designed to integrate with the schedules of working professionals. Courses are a mix of independent online classes, live virtual lectures and intensive in-person sessions.

CMC Leadville is a residential campus located at 10,200 feet elevation with 260+ inches of average snowfall. In addition to modern facilities, an on-campus snow study area and a remote sensing weather stations, CMC has permits to access extensive avalanche areas and exclusive terrain.

Avalanche Science Program FAQs

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The avalanche science program at CMC Leadville combines online classes with 3 intensive on-campus sessions each year.

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