The University of Mount Olive (UMO) Partners with iCEV for College Credit Initiative

iCEV, a trailblazer in Career & Technical Education (CTE) solutions, has partnered with the University of Mount Olive (UMO) in North Carolina to offer a new college credit opportunity for students interested in conservation.

Beginning in January 2026, high school students can earn three hours of college credit by completing the Ducks Unlimited Ecology Conservation and Management Certification course through UMO and passing the certification exam hosted on the iCEV Testing Platform.

With approval from their high school, students may earn both high school and college credit after successfully completing the eight-week virtual course and certification exam. The course awards three college credit hours (ENR 240 at UMO), which may apply toward general education, science, or elective requirements and may be transferable to other institutions nationwide. The virtual format allows students to complete coursework on their own schedule, supporting both individual learners and full classroom instruction.

“This partnership provides students with the option to receive both high school and college credit for earning a valuable industry certification, and it underlines the rigor and value of the Ducks Unlimited Ecology Conservation & Management Certification,” said Dusty Moore, CEO of iCEV. “For students considering careers in this area, earning a certification while in high school and receiving college credit can provide a significant advantage in career preparation.”

The eight-week course utilizes Ducks Unlimited Ecology Conservation & Management Certification preparation curriculum available on the iCEV platform. The curriculum is designed to help students master industry standards and develop skills in ecology and conservation management through comprehensive lesson plans, videos, slide presentations, and practice exams.

The certification exam consists of 100 questions assessing industry-valued and industry-recognized standards developed by Ducks Unlimited, the world’s leader in wetlands and waterfowl conservation. The exam verifies knowledge and skills related to ecological principles, wildlife management, and the conservation and management of habitats including forests, grasslands, wetlands, and waterfowl populations.

As societal emphasis on natural resources and environmental stewardship continues to grow, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects approximately 3,000 job openings each year in conservation-related fields.

For more information or to enroll in the UMO course, contact Dr. Jason Davis at rdavis@umo.edu.

Colleges and higher education institutions interested in a similar partnership may contact certifications@icevonline.com. To learn more about iCEV and its commitment to Career & Technical Education, visit www.icevonline.com.